What Are White Noise Machines and Should You Get One?

White Noise Machine

White noise machines are electronic devices that are used to produce or play white noise or other sounds that the listener might find soothing such as the sound of rain falling, wind, ocean waves, and running water.  They actually have several purposes. However, the most common purpose that people use white noise machines for is to aid in sleeping.

What is White Noise?

White noise is the noise that is what is created by equally combining all the frequencies of sounds together at once. Because of this white noise can be used to mask other sounds.

Why Does White Noise Help People Sleep Better?

If white noise is a type of sound why doesn’t it wake people up or prevent them from falling asleep in the first place?

When there are sudden changes in the noise around us it can startle a person who is trying to sleep. White noise helps to block these changes in sound thus enabling us to have a more peaceful sleep.

The key to using white noise to help you sleep is the fact that it is constant. After a while, constant white noise that doesn’t have any sudden changes in volume becomes something that the brain can tune out or ignore. This combined with the fact that white noise when at the proper level can block out the changing sounds around us that might otherwise startle us and prevent us from sleeping.

Who Would Benefit From Sleeping With White Noise?

People who go to bed when there is still activity going on around the home will often find that it is easier to sleep with the help of white noise. Likewise, people who work odd shifts and need to sleep during the day when there is more activity and sounds around them will also often appreciate the help of white noise when trying to sleep.

The following sleep environments might benefit from using white noise:

  • nurseries
  • children’s rooms
  • daycare centers
  • college dorms/residence halls
  • apartments
  • homes by busy streets or highways

The following people might benefit from using white noise while sleeping:

  • babies
  • children who go to bed while adults or others are still awake
  • people who suffer from anxiety
  • insomnia sufferers
  • people with tinnitus
  • people who work the 3rd shift (overnights)

So What is a White Noise Machine?

A white noise machine is an electronic device that produces soothing sounds that help to mask the sounds around us thereby allowing us to get a more restful sleep.

White noise machines come in two main types:

  • Mechanical – Mechanical machines that consist of a fan inside of an enclosed housing that is used to create the white noise sound. These mechanical machines may have a switch that allows you to control the speed of the fan. They also have small adjustable holes or vents in the housing that allows you to customize the volume and tone to match your sound preference.
  • Digital – Digital machines will produce or playback a variety of soothing sounds. They can either digitally produce white noise or playback audio tracks of sounds such as falling rain, the ocean, flowing water, birds, lullabies. These audio tracks can be set to automatically replay once the end of the track is reached. Digital white noise machines will also have a volume control so you can adjust the sounds to your preferences and sleeping environment.

Here is an example of a highly rated mechanical white noise machine:

 

Yogasleep Dohm Classic (White) The Original White Noise Machine (actual fan inside)

Yogasleep Dohm Classic

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The Yogasleep Dohm Classic produces the soothing sound of rushing air without the unwanted breeze created by a fan. It comes with a two-speed fan and an adjustable cap that allows you to make the sound holes larger or smaller so you can customize the volume and tone of the sound.

Marpac designed the Dohm Classic with convenience and portability in mind. It has a long 6-foot power cord so you can place the unit pretty much wherever you want. The Dohm Classic is compact and stands just 3-1/4 inches high with a base diameter of 5-3/4 inches and weighs only 1 ½ pounds, which makes it easy to fit on your nightstand and bring with you when you travel.

Its’ sturdy construction durability is backed by a one-year warranty.

Learn More Here

Here is an example of a highly rated digital white noise machine:

Adaptive Sound Technologies – Sound+Sleep – Sleep Therapy Machine

Adaptive Sound Technologies - Sound+Sleep - Sleep Therapy Machine

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The Adaptive Sound Technologies – Sound+Sleep – Sleep Therapy Machine is a full-featured unit that should satisfy most anyone’s needs for a sleep therapy/white noise machine. It comes with 10 different sound options for you to choose from including the traditional white noise option that you would expect.

In addition to the many different sound profiles you have to choose from, Adaptive Sound Technologies packed this unit with many other great features. These features include:

  • Volume control
  • Adaptive Sound technology that listens for background noise and can automatically adjust the volume to help ensure that you don’t have your sleep disrupted.
  • A timer that can be set to gradually turn off the unit in 30, 60, 90, or 120 minute time increments. If you don’t want to use the timer you can always use the all-night continuous play option.

While larger than some of the travel-sized units, the Sound+Sleep sleep therapy machine is still relatively compact. Weighing in at 2 pounds the Sound+Sleep’s dimensions are 7.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches.

The Sound+Sleep comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty, and a 30 day return policy so you can feel safe with your purchase.

Learn More Here

Many white noise machines don’t actually produce white noise. These machines might actually be producing pink noise instead. Pink noise is similar to white noise, but it has more emphasis on lower frequencies. Similar to white noise, pink noise can also be used to block out distracting sounds.

Why Not Use a Fan Instead?

Fans can create an approximation of white noise, which is why many people like to use them to help them sleep and don’t see any need for a white noise machine. So why shouldn’t we all just use a fan instead?

There are several reasons why people might prefer a white noise machine instead of a fan:

  • Some people don’t like the feeling of air blowing on them or circulating around the room when they sleep.
  • People who suffer from allergies might not do well with fans blowing around dust and allergens in the place where they sleep.
  • Fans can be bulky and take up too much space – especially in smaller bedrooms.
  • If you travel a lot trying to bring a bulky fan with you on every trip is inconvenient.

White Noise is Also Useful in Other Settings

Using white noise during the day might help you be more productive. The sound masking effect of white noise can be used to block distracting sounds in offices, libraries, and other public places. Sometimes white noise might even be broadcast over a PA system.

In noisy workplaces where people can’t use a white noise machine, they might opt to use noise isolating or noise cancelling headphones.

Here are some bestselling white noise machines on Amazon:

SaleBestseller No. 1
Magicteam Sound Machine White Noise Machine with 20 Non Looping Natural Soothing Sounds Memory Function 32 Levels of Volume Powered by AC or USB and Sleep Sound Timer Therapy for Baby Kids Adults
  • ❤20 Non-Looping Sleep Sounds: White noise ,Brown noise, pink noise, blue noise, fan,brook, rain, ocean,bird and Bonfire,suitable for for Baby and Kids and Adults.
  • ❤Precise Volume & Timer Settings:With 32 Levels of Volume ,it is perfect for baby sleeping .And you can set 1 hour,2 hours,3 hours,4 hours and continuous play,control the comfort level for your own environment.
  • ❤Unique Design: Solid-state design with 3.01inch*3.01inch *1.77inch,it is portable for home, office or travel,can give you a perfect sleep.
  • ❤Function & Safety:Memory function automatically restores your previous volume, sound and time,it is powered by AC or USB.The machine is approved by FCC, CE and RoHS,don't need to worry about accidents.
  • ❤Any issue just don’t hesitate to contact us.We will try our best to help you!
SaleBestseller No. 2
Brown Noise Sound Machine with 30 Soothing Sounds 12 Colors Night Light White Noise Machine for Adults Baby Kids Sleep Machines Memory Function 36 Volume Levels 5 Timers for Home Office Travel
  • ❤[30 Natural and Soothing Sounds] Our white noise machine provides 30 soothing sounds, including 3 Brown noise, 2 White noise(White noise, Pink noise), 2 fan noises( Loud and Soft Fan), 8 lullabies and 15 natural sounds( Rain, Sea waves, Brook, Bird, Train, etc.). This sound machine suitable for relieve stress, relax your mind and create a relaxing sleep environment.
  • ❤[12 Night Light Colors] Sound machine with 12 kinds of light color, to suit your personal preferences at any time. You can choose the suitable nightlight to decorate the environment and create the perfect atmosphere for sleep and rest.
  • ❤[10 Adjustable Levels Night Light] An adjustable soft lighting creates a comfortable sleeping atmosphere for baby kids and adults. Change your surroundings to create the perfect atmosphere for baby sleep, it is the best choice for night feedings.
  • ❤[5 Timer Settings & Memory Function] This sound healing machine can be played continuously or 1,2,3, 4 hours auto-off timer, it is good for taking naps, relaxation, meditation, concentration while studying and working. The white noise machine is powered by AC. Our white noise machine can remember the last sound and volume level you selected when restarted, no need to reset to your previous settings.
  • ❤[Easy to Use & Compact Design] Tap the power button to turn/off the sound playing. Tap the night light button to turn on /off the nightlight. With the lightweight and compact design, it is perfect for home, office or travel.
SaleBestseller No. 3
Dreamegg White Noise Machine - Portable Sound Machine for Baby Adult, Features Powerful Battery, 21 Soothing Sound, Noise Canceling for Office & Sleeping, Sound Therapy for Home, Travel, Registry Gift
  • 【COMPACT BUT POWERFUL】- D11 Max has more skills. Designed for all things sleep, this sound machine comes with favorable features: rechargeable battery, 21 soothing sounds, customized timers, various volume levels, child-lock for safety, and even memory functions! It is not only a sleep soother sound machine for baby kids, but also an effective white noise machine for adults sleeping & relaxation.
  • 【HUGE BATTERY, WORRY-FREE ON THE GO】- Everything D11 max has, PLUS a LONG-LASTING battery. The portable sound machine is built with unbeatable1800mAh battery compared with 500mAh of others. Easily lasts through the night and into daytime naps on a single charge. For parents who are worried about baby getting naps on the go and especially when the power goes out, it is definitely a life saver! Battery is built in (comes with a USB-C cord to charge) so no need to worry about buying any.
  • 【HELPS SETTLE-IN & STAY ASLEEP】- Moms know how precious sleep can be. Turn it on to create peaceful sleep environment to help crying baby calm down and stay asleep. Choose from selected 21 soothing sounds including classic white noise sounds, to baby lullabies and nature sounds. Fall asleep easier and stay asleep longer with this baby sound machine.
  • 【ULTRA PORTABLE AND CORDLESS】 - D11 Max make magic happen for better sleep anywhere. Small and lightweight makes it a perfect travel noise machine. It is extremely convenient when you are packing around so much stuff whether for a baby or for your travel. With a lanyard and loop, you can easily hang it on the stroller or car seat or suitcase. Take it along in the car, on walks, hotel stays, business trips to enjoy portable freedom.
  • 【HAPPY EXPERIENCE, CUSTOMERS TURN BACK】- Dreamegg has been the standard in white noise sound machine. Neutral look makes it fit into any room décor and works with aesthetic very well. D11 Max is the fancy gift choice with unbeatable quality for babies and also for adults who struggles to switch off or wind down after a long hard day. High-quality customer service saves you worry and brings your smile back on face.
Bestseller No. 4
Yogasleep Dohm UNO White Noise Sound Machine (White) With Real Fan Inside for Non-Looping White Noise, For Travel, Office Privacy, Meditation, Sleep Aid For Adults & Baby, Registry Gift
  • THE ORIGINAL WHITE NOISE MACHINE, SIMPLIFIED: Beloved by generations since 1962, the Dohm Uno model features our fan-based natural white noise producing our signature sound – the soothing ambient sounds of rushing air, without the disturbance of actual moving air.
  • CUSTOMIZED SOUND EXPERIENCE: With one-speed option for adjustable volume, the Dohm Uno makes it simple to create a personalized sound environment, excellently masking background noise and allowing for better sleep, office privacy, effective soothing for kids and babies, and calming for sound-sensitive dogs.
  • UNBEATABLE QUALITY & GUARANTEE: Sleeping is believing. For over 50 years, Yogasleep by Marpac has been the gold standard in white noise machines - read the reviews and you'll learn why. Assembled for decades in the USA and backed by a one-year limited warranty and the always exceptional Yogasleep customer service promise, we stand behind each product and offer you a 101 night trial to try it out.
  • SIMPLE TO USE: Powered by a 6-foot 120V AC plug, just plug in the Dohm Uno, flip the switch to on, then rotate the collar to find the best sound for you. Let the noise-masking magic happen for a natural sleep aid, office privacy, baby soothing, tinnitus relief, respite from noisy snorers and unfamiliar hotel rooms, and a relaxing calming balm for barking dogs.
  • CLASSIC DESIGN: Featuring a compact and basic design that fits anywhere and blends unobtrusively into surroundings.
Bestseller No. 5
Homedics SoundSleep White Noise Sound Machine, Silver, Small Travel Sound Machine with 6 Relaxing Nature Sounds, Portable Sound Therapy for Home, Office, Nursery, Auto-Off Timer, by Homedics
  • White Noise Sound Machine: The Homedics White Noise Sound Machine includes 6 digitally recorded relaxing sounds designed to mimic the natural environment: White Noise, Thunder, Ocean, Rain, Summer Night, and Brook
  • Compact and Portable: This portable sound machine is lightweight, compact, and easily fits into your purse, bag, or suitcase
  • Baby Sleep Aid: Add these rhythmic sounds to your baby’s sleep routine to help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer; it makes the perfect baby sound machine and baby registry must-have
  • Auto-Off Timer and Volume Controls: Choose to play relaxation sounds on this ambient sound machine continuously or opt for the auto-off timer; the timer features 3 options: 15, 30, or 60 minutes; adjust the volume with convenient volume control buttons
  • What’s in the Box: (1) Homedics White Noise Sound Machine, (1) Wall Outlet Adapter, (1) Quick-Start Guide
SaleBestseller No. 6
Housbay White Noise Machine with 31 Soothing Sounds, 5W Loud Stereo Sound, Auto-Off Timer, Adjustable Volume, Sleep Sound Machine for Baby, Kid, Adult -Wood Grain
  • 【MORE SOUNDS CHOICE THAN OTHERS】 - Features total 31 soothing sounds - 7 white noises, 7 fan sounds and 17 nature sounds( Gentle Waves, Ocean Waves, Fetal Tone, Lullaby, Bird, Brook, Wind, Campfire, Shushing, Drops, Pendulum, Heart Beat, Music BOX, Rain, Summer Night, Thunderstorm and Train). All the sounds are non-looping and crystal.
  • 【SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY】- Delivers high-fidelity, room-filling sound and robust bass through an advanced 5W stereo speaker- Creating a personalized sleeping environment for your little one or you by masking disruptive noises. (street noise, tinnitus, snoring, barking dogs, noisy hotel room, and loud neighbors)
  • 【OPTIONAL AUTO OFF TIMER & ADJUSTABLE VOLUME】- It is easy to use and you can customize the sound, volume (from very low to adequately high), non-stop playing or using timer on it and it auto save all your preferred settings.
  • 【COMPACT SIZE-TRAVEL FRIENDLY】- Your worries about not sleeping while traveling are gone. It is compact and easily fits in your bag or suitcase. It can be powered by AC or any common USB port. You can take it wherever you go.
  • 【AESTHETICALLY PLEASING DESIGN】- The wood grain finish looks classy in any nursery or bedroom and looks more aesthetically pleasing than most of the basic white designs out there. Who says a sound machine can not be beautiful too?
Bestseller No. 7
Sound Machine Easysleep White Noise Machine with 25 Soothing Sounds and Night Lights with Memory Function 32 Levels of Volume and 5 Sleep Timer Powered by AC or USB for Sleeping Relaxation (White)
  • 💕25 Non-Looping Sleep Sounds:White noise,fans,brook,sea waves,bird, bonfire,train,piano,lullabies,meditation and so on,this special gift with big big love,will give you the most peace of mind,suitable for baby, kids and adults.
  • 💕Adjustable Night lights: Four levels of warm lights,it is perfect for sleeping, feeding, even reading.This is a humanized bedside lamp with white noise for your family to take care of their sweet sleep!
  • 💕5 Timers & 32 Levels of Volume:You can set it for continuous play or setting a timer 60,120,180,240 min auto-off. And this machine has 32 levels of volume,can easily mask the disruptive environmental noise.
  • 💕Compact design& Memory function: With 3.9*3.9*2.3 inch ,it can be easily fitted into a handbag or suitcase,perfect for home, office or travel.And memory function will automatically restore your previous volume, sound and time.
  • 💕Quality Assurance & 100% Satisfaction Guarantee:18 Months Warranty for the white noise machine from the date of purchase.This machine is powered by AC or USB,it is approved by ETL, FCC, CE and RoHS,don't need to worry about accidents.Any question just don’t hesitate to contact us.
Bestseller No. 8
Kipcush Sound Machine & Night Light for Adults, Baby, Kids. White Noise Machine with 20 Soothing Sleep Sounds. Small Size & Portable Design for Bedroom, Office, Travel. Favorites Buttons, Timer
  • This device does not include a power adaptor. Included in the box is a USB-A to coaxial connector cable. We encourage you re-use current adaptor, generic power adaptor with popular 5V output is compatible with this device.
  • High-Fidelity Soothing Sounds: Features 20 high-fidelity soothing sounds including 4white noises, 4 fan noises, 9 nature sounds, and 3 lullabies. You can choose your favorite sound by simply tapping the sound name. Perfect for babies, and adults help you relieve the stress at home or office.
  • Soothing Warm Night Light: With three adjustable brightness levels, our warm night light is perfect for creating a calm atmosphere for sleep, late-night feedings, or even reading without straining your eyes.
  • Flexible Timer and Memory Function: Customize your relaxation with our timer options set at 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120-minute intervals. For uninterrupted peace, choose to let it run all night long. Our sleep machine also remembers your last settings, so you won't have to go through the setup process repeatedly.
  • Precision Volume Control: With a range of 20 volume settings, our white noise machine offers you the flexibility to fine-tune the audio to suit your specific needs.
Bestseller No. 9
Color Noise Sound Machines with 10 Colors Night Light 25 Soothing Sounds and Sleep White Noise Machine 32 Volume Levels 5 Timers Adjustable Brightness Memory Function for Adults Kids Baby
  • ♪【25 High-fidelity and Soothing Sounds】 There are 4 types of white noise, 4 fan sounds, 3 sea wave sounds, 3rain sounds , train, star dust, meditation, and relaxing natural sounds and so on. The sound rhythm helps you fall asleep, and the white noise machine can effectively cover up destructive or startling sounds to protect your sleep quality.
  • ♪【10 Night Lights and Adjustable Brightness 】 The white noise machine has a unique 10-color night lights and adjustable brightness. It can be used for office lighting, milk powder changing, diaper feeding, parent-child interaction, or bedside sleep. You can use these 10 ambient lights to decorate your environment.It can be just the sound or just the night light!
  • ♪【5 Timer-Setting and Memory Function】 There are a total of 5 timer options, continuously play, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours and 4 hours, you can set it according to your needs.When the automatic shut-off comes close, the sound will gradually fade out and then turn off. And the machine can also remember the settings of volume, brightness, track and timer, so you don't have to press buttons all the time!
  • ♪【Lightweight, Compact and Easy to use】 The design of the device is simple and intuitive, light and easy to carry, and the design of large enough buttons allows you to easily change the track, turn on/off the night light, change the color of the ambient light, and even set the timer setting within a few seconds.
  • ♪【Safety Assurance & Included】 The white noise machine has passed FCC, CE and RoHS certification, so there is no need to worry about any accidents about the product; there is a 12-month warranty since the purchase, adapter and USB are included. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Bestseller No. 10
Yogasleep Dohm Classic (White) The Original White Noise Sound Machine, Soothing Natural Sounds from a Real Fan, Sleep Therapy for Adults & Baby, Noise Cancelling for Office Privacy & Meditation
  • THE ORIGINAL WHITE NOISE SOUND MACHINE: Beloved by millions since 1962, the Dohm Classic model features our fan-based natural white noise, it produces the soothing ambient sounds of moving air..Music tracks:Fan, White Noise.
  • CUSTOMIZED SOUND EXPERIENCE: With two speed options for adjustable tone and volume, the Dohm Classic excellently cancels background noise for better sleep for children, adults, office privacy, and soothing sound-sensitive pets.
  • UNBEATABLE QUALITY & GUARANTEE: For over 60 years, YOGASLEEP has been the gold standard in white noise sound machines. Handmade in the USA and backed by an exceptional YOGASLEEP customer experience, we stand behind each product and also offer you a 30-day return policy.
  • SIMPLE TO USE: Powered by an 7-foot 120V AC cord, simply plug in, flip the switch to high or low, then rotate the cap and collar to find the best sound for you. Let the noise-masking magic begin to help as a natural sleep aid, baby soothing, tinnitus relief, and respite from noisy snorers.
  • CLASSIC DESIGN: Featuring a simple design that blends unobtrusively into surroundings. Also available in white, black, gray, pink, tan, and camo. Cleaning & Care: Simply wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.

Last update on 2025-02-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API