You have probably turned and tossed trying to find the best condition to fall asleep. While this is attributed to many factors including health, there are a few things that can help you fall asleep and possibly remain asleep throughout the night. White noise machines have been in existence for some time now, and although the science about how they work is still complex, they have proved to help.
There are questions about how they work, who they are suitable for and if they are harmful. Before we talk about how these work, how about we discuss the crucial factors you should consider when buying a white noise machine.
In a hurry? We recommend the LectroFan Sound Machine for a comfortable night’s sleep, every night.
Also Read: Best 5 Rated Sleep Aids for Insomnia
Quick Buyer’s Guide
What are white noise machines?
White noise is a combo of all various types of frequencies of sound playing at the same time. White noise is mainly used to ensure privacy or promote concentration. Envisage some 20,000 tones or turning on thousands of televisions all at the same time- a white noise machine overwhelms them all so that you hear only the white noise. Some researchers suggest that a portable fan approximates white noise.
Types
White noise machines come in different types including plug-in, portable and combination machines. The plug-in type only operates when plugged into a power source. This type comes with plugging accessories and power indications as well. Portable ones usually operate with batteries as the source of power. They are suitable for people that travel most times and need white noise machines.
The combination type of white noise machine is that which comes with additional features. These include alarm clocks, baby monitors or light projectors. This type is common with people that use the white noise machine for babies.
Sounds
These machines have various sounds in addition to the white noise. They include animal sounds such as birds chirping, natural sounds such as wind blowing and other sounds in the environment. When selecting the machine, you really need to consider the sound you prefer to reap maximum benefits from the white noise machine.
Settings
This is a crucial factor that determines how well the white noise machine operates. An ideal device should feature various settings including the different volume levels, sound settings, and pitch levels. That will allow you to customize a suitable sound level in the volume you like and a pitch you are comfortable with.
Power
What type of power will the white noise machine use? This solely depends on the make of the device and is indicated in each for you to choose. Most white noise machines are compatible with the usual power outlets while some need a particular type of cables and outlets to operate.
Convenience
An ideal white noise machine should be easy to operate with minimal handling and installation. You should choose those that can work with remote controls, so you do not have to wake up to switch settings. Also, those that come with timers allow you to set, and the sound automatically switches off when the timer is off.
Also Read: Is It Bad To Fall Asleep With Headphones On?
White Noise FAQ’s
It is still not clear what science operates around white noise machines, but they have proved to help people sleep and remain asleep throughout the night. A study of newborn babies reveals that white noise significantly reduced the amount of time it took study subjects to fall asleep.
These machines produce calming and soothing sounds that block out environmental noise that could distract your sweet sleep.
What you continuously hear are the sounds the machine produces at the same volume and pitch to calm down and rest.
There are various uses for white noise machines being used as a calming tool for helping toddlers especially those that have a hard time trying to fall asleep.
Researchers, suggest that for sleep-deprived parents intent on using a white noise machine, they recommend that the white machine be placed as far as possible from the infant, never in or attached to the crib and to use it at the lowest possible volume for the shortest period of time.
White noise machines can also be used for people with partners snore at night to block out the snoring sounds. Other people that need white noise machines include tinnitus sufferers that constantly deal with the ringing tone in the ear. In short, people that often fail to sleep on time or keep waking up might need the help of white noise machines.
More to helping you fall asleep better, white noise machines come with other benefits. They help you create an ideal sleeping pattern which in turn enhances your productivity.
So, if you’re struggling to sleep ensure you’ve got one (or a few) strategically placed throughout your bedroom to keep things relaxed and peaceful.
Also, the device enables you to relax better which eventually works on your concentration levels at work or school.
Summarizing, a white noise machine has many uses but the main ones we found are:
– Aiding adults with insomnia or sleeping difficulties
– Soothing toddlers back to sleep
– Helping babies to sleep soundly and remain asleep
– To mask symptoms of tinnitus
– Relaxation and meditation
– Background music and noise during a body massage
– Practicing yoga
This point is still not clear, but as usual, it is essential to exercise precautions when operating the machine. That means ensuring the noise levels are below the recommended levels for the human ear as well as the right pitch. If using white noise for babies, be sure to consult with professionals to ensure the settings are correct.
Long periods and loud exposure to the frequencies emitted by these machines can be highly dangerous, and being able to know these things is sure to be a great advantage for parents that uses them as an effective way of keeping their children asleep.
Best 14 White Noise Machines
#1 LectroFan
Why you’ll love it: The LectroFan High Fidelity White Noise Machine is a great smart device for your bedroom. It comes with a variety of settings to help you fall asleep better and earlier. One significant feature you will love about the machine is the sound package, it comes with 10 fan sounds and 10 white noise sound variations.
The machine helps to mask annoying sounds in the surrounding which allows you and your baby fall asleep and relax better. It comes with various noise settings so you can choose a suitable one. In addition to the white noise, the machine also produces pink noise and brown noise, giving you a variety of choices.
The design of the machine features a solid gadget that is safe to use in any room of the house. It can be powered by AC or USB to operate as you like. It has no moving parts to ensure it is safe to use around children. More to this, the control panel features soft buttons for ease of switching settings.
The fact that this machine comes with fan sounds add to the variety of settings it has. It also has volume settings that move from low to high settings for you to select the suitable level. It is indeed an excellent companion for sleep, work or study.
Pros: Variety of noises, ten fan sounds, easy settings, convenient, sleek design
Cons: Loud on low settings
#2 Avantek
Why you’ll love it: The AVANTEK White Noise Machine for sleeping is a suitable option for daily use. It comes with a variety of noise settings that you can choose from. What you will love most about the device is the sleep timer which automatically switches off the sounds when the set time is up.
This white noise machine features six types of white noise, six fan sounds, and eight nature sounds. The nature sounds include rain, wind, ocean waves, stream, birds, crickets, campfire, and clock. When switched on, the machine automatically restores our previous settings including the volume, sound, and timer.
This feature ensures you keep your preferred settings without the need for setting every other day. The machine works efficiently by blocking out distracting noises in the background helping you to fall asleep with ease. With the timer, you can set your preferred time to keep the machine on until you are deep in sleep.
This machine is undoubtedly one of the best with the various features it has. It is compact which allows you to carry it for trips or to the office. It is small enough to fit in the backpack or handbag, so you have your needed companion even when out of town.
Pros: Compact size, a variety of noises, easy to set, auto timer, memory function
Cons: Hard to master the sounds
#3 Big Red Rooster
Why you’ll love it: The Big Red Booster Sound Machine will help you and your family fall asleep better by effectively blocking out environmental noise that could be the reason you can’t sleep. You will love the light weight and its portability so you can carry it for travels and trips.
The machine has 6 high-quality natural sounds that include rain, brook, ocean, summer night, white noise and thunder. The sounds are high enough to mask any distracting noise in the background so you can sleep better. The results of these are comfortable nights and energizing mornings.
The machine has a timer that can be set for 15, 30 or 60 minutes. You can opt to leave it on all night or select your preferred time. It is compact making it easy to carry it around to the office or on a trip. One more thing, the machine has a top control panel which is easy to operate and switch settings.
The volume button on the machine helps you to choose the noise level you are comfortable with for the night. The good thing is that the sounds are seamless and will maintain the pitch all through. The machine is indeed suitable for the whole family.
Pros: High-quality sound, timer, easy settings, compact and portable, effective
Cons: Limited choices for the timer
#4 Marpac Dohm Classic
Why you’ll love it: The Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Sound Machine should help you fall asleep earlier and possibly remain asleep for the rest of the night. This particular one promises that with the great functionality it has. One thing you will love about the machine is the soothing sound of a fan without the cold air that a regular fan brings.
The machine has natural masking sounds that remain constant as long as the device is running. These sounds block out any noise that might wake you up and disrupt your sleeping schedule. The good thing is that you can customize your sound to reap the benefits of this machine.
The two speeds allow you to set the most suitable volume to mask obstructive noses in your surroundings. After setting the volume, you need to adjust the most appealing sound to soothe and relax your mind. That is setting the pitch that works best for you regardless of the noise you choose.
This machine is compact and portable so you can carry it in your handbag or backpack when traveling. It operates easily, and the control panel is not complex at all. You flip the switch to choose the volume; high for extremely noisy environments and low for a relaxing and soothing volume.
Pros: Two speeds, easy to operate, practical, compact
Cons: Inconsistent sound
Get Marpac Rohm Classic on Amazon
#5 Marpac Rohm, Portable
Why you’ll love it: This cute little Marpac Rohm Portable White Noise Machine is the ultimate companion for your travels and days out of town. It is small in size but high in performance. You will get to enjoy the three different and unique sound options for a relaxing night and an easy time falling asleep.
The machine effectively masks out disturbing noises in the background making you feel relaxed and ready to sleep on time. It has sound options that include bright white noise, deep white noise, and gentle surf. It is also easy to set and select the volume that is best for you to fall asleep comfortably.
The machine is designed for portability to ensure all your nights are the same regarding the quality of sleep. On this note, the device includes a lanyard for easy handling and hanging when you need to carry it. What’s more, it is rechargeable using a USB cable to keep it on when you are out of power.
Pros: compact, portable, fitted with a handle, three different sounds, and volume options
Cons: limited noise options
#6 LectroFan Micro
Why you’ll love it: When it comes to functionality, the LectroFan Micro Wireless White Noise Machine carries the day. It comes with plenty of functions not only to help you sleep better but also enjoy other activities. You will love the wireless Bluetooth audio with a built-in microphone. With this, you can listen to music or make calls using your smartphone and connect to the device.
The white noise machine comes with ten unique sounds to help you relax and fall asleep better. This includes five fan sounds, four white noise variations, and a soothing ocean sound; in one device. The compact design allows you to direct the sound where you need it for maximum benefit.
For convenience, the machine has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 16 hours when operating. Also, the battery lasts about 6 hours of streaming audio before charging it again. This makes it suitable for travel whereby you can enjoy all these benefits without worrying about powering the device. It is indeed an appropriate option for those looking for a device with multiple functions.
Pros: Wireless Bluetooth audio, built-in microphone, ten different sounds, long-lasting battery, portable
Cons: Not loud enough for noisy areas
#7 PiCTEK
Why you’ll love it: A suitable white noise machine should be convenient to use anywhere you are. The Pictek White Noise Machine guarantees that and comes with two power options to ensure you enjoy the benefits all the time. The machine can be charged using a standard USB cable and can connect to a laptop or any USB outlet. Also, you can use 4 AA batteries where you cannot access power.
The machine can run all night, or you can opt to choose between the 30 and 60-minute timer. It has soothing sounds and will transform your bedroom into a spa-like environment. It is, therefore, suitable for infants and adults and has shown to improve concentration by blocking out distracting noises.
The machine has 24 blocking noises with eight different modes for you to select a suitable one. That means each mode has three different sounds. One significant feature is the memory function that restores the machine to previous settings. With this, you will not have to set the tones and volumes every other night.
The machine also has an adjustable volume function so you can select just the right pitch level. It is easy to use and gets you the right setting for a comfortable experience. More to this, the machine supports 3.5mm earphone so you can relax at work or school.
Pros: a variety of sounds, multiple modes, easy to operate, memory function, two power options
Cons: repetitive sounds
#8 Sound + Sleep
Why you’ll love it: Functionality and convenience never go better. As the name suggests, the Sound+Sleep High Fidelity Sleep Sound Machine will take you to your dreamland and ensure you stay right there all through the night. With the 30 high-quality sounds, nothing in the environment will distract your sweet sleep.
One feature you will hardly find is the adaptive sound which listens to the environment. In a case where the environmental sounds increase, the machine will automatically adjust the volume to block out even the slightest noise. This is a great feature and can be helpful for people that have issues sleeping with various noise pitches and volumes.
When it comes to the timer, the machine allows you to set 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes. This gives you more options to select the suitable timing for you to fall asleep. The best part is that it does not shut off at once. When the set time approaches, the volume reduces until it goes off completely.
Other functions include the front panel light that automatically shuts off to help you rest without any form of distraction. The control panel is clear making it easy to change the settings and select your preferred sound with ease. The machine also has a 3.5 mm audio connector to use with earphones or speakers.
Pros: 30 sounds, easy to adjust volume, effective timer, panel light, adaptive sound feature
Cons: some noises are too loud
Buy the Get the Sound + Sleep on Amazon
#9 Wave Premium
Why you’ll love it: We all agree that a useful white noise machine should remain consistent as it operates. This is what you get with the Wave Premium Sleep Therapy Sound Machine, thanks to the construction and design. It has six soothing sounds of nature that will lure you to sleep faster and possibly improve our routine.
The machine gives you the opportunity to fall asleep better and improve the quality of your sleep. It is highly effective in blocking out noises in the background that could be the reason for the constant tossing and turning. Each sound is relaxing and clear to the end.
The machine ensures there are no breaks in the middle of the tunes to help you sleep better. More to this, it comes with a built-in USB charger to keep it on as you like. The USB port is useful in charging your phone and other devices to keep you connected when you are away from home.
On this same note, the machine design makes it easy to carry around. That means you can still enjoy the benefits of a white noise machine when you travel or anywhere away from home. It is light in weight and can fit perfectly in your carry-on bag or suitcase.
Pros: 6 soothing sounds, effective, USB charge port, portable, timer
Cons: Noticeable loops
Buy the Wave Premium on Amazon
#10 HoMedics
Why you’ll love it: The HoMedics SS-2000 SoundSpa Relaxation Sound Machine will redefine your sleeping routine. It comes with six nature sounds that will lure you to fall asleep better and quicker. You will love the soothing nature of the sounds that play seamlessly for a comfortable experience.
The machine can operate by use of batteries and a power adapter that is included in the package. It has an easy-to-use control panel where you can set the volumes and select a suitable sound. With the timer, you can leave the machine running, and it will automatically shut off when the time is up.
Pros: Timer, six soothing sounds, easy to operate, volume function, portable
Cons: Hints of looping
#11 HemingWeigh
Why you’ll love it: The HemingWeigh White Noise Sound Machine will not only help you fall asleep with ease but also provide other functions such as a USB port to charge your phone overnight. More to this, you will get to enjoy the inbuilt LED light that comes with a separate on/off switch.
The machine functions by masking out surrounding noises to help you sleep better. The design features fantastic functions that will possibly improve your sleep routine and give you an opportunity to experience a soothing effect every other night.
The machine comes with a built-in USB port where you can charge your phone as you sleep. Also, it comes with a night light that has a separate switch. This feature makes the machine suitable for use in baby rooms and those that cannot sleep in the dark. It is indeed an ideal selection for the whole family.
Pros: Quality sounds, night light, USB Charge port, creative design
Cons: Slight rattling sound
#12 myBaby
Why you’ll love it: Specially crafted for your little one, myBaby Soundspa White Noise Machine will help your baby fall asleep better and earlier. It has six soothing lullaby sounds that will relax your baby and help them sleep. The sounds bring about a natural environment to soothe and relax your little one.
The white noise machine is portable and is small enough to fit in a purse, backpack or suitcase. That means you can carry it around and enjoy the benefits when you travel with your baby. You never have to worry about a disrupted sleeping routine for your baby when you are away from home.
The machine also has a timer that automatically shuts off when the time is out. It has three timer options including 15, 30 or 60 minutes. The device works by plugging into a wall outlet with the adapter that is included in the package.
Pros: Ideal for babies, soothing sounds, portable, timer, effective
Cons: Slight ringing sound in the background
#13 Big Red Rooster Portable Baby Machine
Why you’ll love it: The Big Red Rooster BRRC111 Portable Baby Sound Machine is perfect for babies and toddlers, and the design makes it even better for those that have a hard time falling asleep.
The device has five quality sounds that help your baby relax and fall asleep. It effectively masks background noises that could be the reason your baby has a hard time sleeping well.
The design of this white noise machine is attractive for babies and has a clip to attach to strollers and car seats. It can operate for hours, or you can set it to run for 15 or 30 minutes after which it automatically shuts off. It works with 3 AAA batteries.
Pros: Attractive design, portable, soothing sounds for babies, timer
Cons: Needs regular battery change
#14 Hatch Baby
Why you’ll love it: The Hatch Baby Rest Night Light and Sound Machine is the perfect solution to the rough times trying to put your baby to sleep. It comes as a combination of a nightlight, a sound machine, and a time-to-rise alert. One thing you will love about it is the ability to operate it from your phone helping you to monitor your baby’s sleeping pattern.
This multifunction device will soothe your baby to sleep, keep the light on and alerts you when it is time for baby to wake up. It is easy to use and can be adjusted remotely using a smartphone. The nightlight is dim enough not to distract the baby but bright enough for you to nurse and monitor your baby while sleeping.
Pros: multi-function, suitable for babies, remote operation
Cons: Requires location on
Final Verdict
The above white noise machines are suitable for family use with some specifically designed for your little ones. When looking for one, be sure to consider the factors explained above to ensure you get the right one for your needs.
LectroFan Sound Machine takes our top pick as the best all-rounder white noise machine. With a simple array of white noise sounds, it can help both adults and toddlers sleep – as well as block out daytime noise. Plus it takes up less space on a nightstand.