Parents often ask if a white noise machine is necessary. While nothing is mandatory, I often suggest trying one – it’s a simple, effective sleep tool. If you’re unsure about purchasing a sound machine, you can test a white noise app on your phone first to see how your baby responds.

What is white noise?

White noise is a type of background sound that contains all frequencies at equal intensity. A classic example is the static-like sound of a radio or the hum of a vacuum cleaner.

Fun fact: There are other types of noise too—pink, brown, and even black noise!

• Pink noise: Includes all frequencies humans can hear, but higher frequencies are softer.

• Brown noise: Lower frequencies than white or pink noise, resembling a waterfall or thunder.

• Black noise: Mostly silence, punctuated by occasional sounds.

Benefits of white noise for baby sleep.

During the newborn period, white noise creates a womb-like environment, helping calm fussy babies. Studies have shown:

• White noise can reduce crying in colicky babies.

• Newborns may fall asleep faster with a white noise machine.

Additionally, white noise machines block disruptive sounds, making it easier for your baby to sleep and stay asleep. This is especially helpful for:

• Parents completing household tasks during naps or bedtime

• Reducing early wake-ups caused by external noise like sirens or garbage trucks

• Preventing a fussy baby from waking older siblings

How to use a sound machine safely.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping a white noise machine 7 feet away from your crib.

• Volume: Aim for 50–55 decibels. Use a decibel app to check if the sound is safe for your baby’s ears.

• Routine cue: Starting the machine at the beginning of bedtime can signal that it’s time to sleep.

Will your baby become dependent on white noise?

Most babies do not become reliant on sound machines. Traveling or using blackout curtains won’t usually disrupt their sleep. If your baby prefers the sound machine, that’s fine—it’s a mild and flexible sleep aid, and portable options make it easy to bring along anywhere.

Recommended White Noise Machines.

My personal favorites:

• YogaSleep Dohm: Uses a physical fan for a natural white noise sound.

• LectroFan Evo: Generates electronic white, pink, brown, and fan sounds.

The best choice depends on your needs: will it stay in the nursery, or do you need a travel-friendly option? Do you want battery power or a plug-in model?

The use of white noise has many benefits, and I recommend it to all the families that I work with. Many of the parents find that they love it too and end up purchasing their own white noise device once their newborn no longer sleeps in their room!