What Are White Noise Machines and Should You Get One?

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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.

Table of Contents

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 3^rd 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)

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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.

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Here is an example of a highly rated digital white noise 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 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 Black

❤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!

Bestseller No. 2

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

ORIGINAL SLEEP SOUND MACHINE: Beloved by millions since 1962, the Dohm Classic was the first white noise machine ever created. It features our signature sound: natural, comforting, fan-based white noise—without the annoyance of actual moving air.
CUSTOMIZED EXPERIENCE: The Dohm Classic effectively blocks out disruptive sounds like traffic, snoring, or noisy neighbors, making it easier to sleep or concentrate. Its dual speed settings let you fine-tune the tone & volume to your heart’s content.
CRAFTED WITH LOVE: For over 60 years, Yogasleep has consistently set the gold standard in crafting sleep-enhancing products, leading the way in the industry. It’s lovingly assembled by hand in the USA, a testament to our commitment to quality.
SIMPLE TO USE: Just plug in the Dohm Classic using the included 7-foot 120V AC power cable, flip the switch & find your happy sound. It’s a lifesaver for better sleep, soothing babies, tuning out tinnitus, or escaping the snore-fest next to you.
CLASSIC DESIGN: The Dohm Classic’s timeless design fits into any space. Available in a palette of colors to match your style—white, black, gray, pink, tan & camo. To care for & clean your sound machine, simply wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.

Bestseller No. 3

Dreamegg Sunrise 1 Pro - Sunrise Alarm Clock, Sound Machine for Sleep, Favorites Mode, Sleep Routines, Dimmable Night Light, 29 Soothing Sounds, White Noise Machine, Wake Up Light for Bedrooms (Cream)

𝗔𝗹𝗹-𝗶𝗻-𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗥𝗵𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗺 - Bringing your Sunrise Alarm Clock, Mood Light, and Sound Machine together in one compact design, this all-in-one device keeps your nightstand simple while giving you the essentials to build a steadier, more balanced daily routine. Practical and space-saving, it fits naturally into morning prep, evening wind-downs, and everything in between.
𝗢𝗻𝗲-𝗧𝗮𝗽 𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘆 – Access your preferred setup instantly with one-tap favourites recall—no app needed. Designed for effortless use on white noise sound machine, the intuitive buttons keep every setting easy to reach, while 20 light levels and 5 display dimming options let you match the mood for bedtime, reading, or a soft morning wake-up. Simple, intuitive, and ready for any moment.
𝗦𝗼𝗳𝘁 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 - Start each day with the calm glow of our wake up light sunrise alarm clock, gently brightening over 0–60 minutes just like a real sunrise. Whether you prefer to wake with light-only or with 6 soothing natural alarm sounds, it creates a soft, peaceful morning atmosphere that helps you ease out of sleep and into a more balanced day.
𝟮𝟵 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗱 𝟭𝟬 𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 - Wind down effortlessly with 29 soothing sounds, including White Noise, Brown Noise, Pink Noise, Meditation, Rain, Ocean and Birds. As a versatile white noise sound machine with 10 ambient light colours, it helps you craft a warm, cocoon-like bedtime atmosphere that quiets distractions, relaxes your mind, and guides you into more restorative sleep.
𝗕𝗲𝗱𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗺, 𝗚𝗶𝗳𝘁-𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 - Wrapped in a soft cotton-linen fabric, this sunrise alarm clock bedside brings a gentle, natural warmth to your bedside—blending in like a curated décor piece. Its refined texture and clean silhouette elevate any nightstand with a calm, stylish touch. With its gift-ready design, it’s also a lovely choice for festive gifting or anyone who appreciates beautiful, functional home essentials.

SaleBestseller No. 4

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.

Bestseller No. 5

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 feeding, changing diaper, 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.

SaleBestseller No. 6

Soother Sleep Sound Machine Night Light White Noise Machine with 30 Soothing Sounds & 12 Color Night Lights for Baby Kids Adults Brown Noise Machine with Timer & Continuous Play for Home Travel Office

【30 Non-looping Sleep Sounds】 Our white noise machine has 3 white noises such as brown noise, white noise, pink noise. 2 fan sounds like soft fan, loud fan. 18 natural sounds like sea waves, heavy rain, brook, fireplace, singing birds, water drop etc. 7 soothing music such as piano, heart's beating, hushing sound, etc. A variety of natural soothing sounds for you to choose which suitable for relieving stress, relaxing mood, helping sleep and taking care of babies or sleeping and other scenes.
【12 Night Light Colors】 There are 12 kinds of light colors so that you can choose the color suitable for you according to different scenes. This white noise machine can facilitate your parent-child interaction, indoor lighting, baby feeding and decorative environment, etc.
【10 Brightness Levels】10 adjustable brightness levels. One-button control is simple and easy to operate. The keys are large enough for you to operate easily.
【5 Timer settings and Memory Function】 This sound machine has five timer settings. 1 h, 2 h, 3 h, 4 h and play continuously. When approaching automatic shutdown, the sound will gradually fade, and then turn off, rather than stop immediately.
【Convenient to Carry】 The product is equipped with a power adapter, USB charging cable and user manual. This sound machine is small and easy to carry, suitable for home, office or travel. If you have any questions, please contact us in time.

SaleBestseller No. 7

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

【Sleep, Finally】- 31 real nature sounds like white noise, fan sounds, rain, thunder and ocean—recorded from real environments to bring true-to-life soundscapes for relaxation and sleep
【Sound That Wraps You】- Forward-facing speaker directs sound only to you—so you hear clearly at low volume, shielded from outside noise or snoring. Other machines fill the room. Ours protects your sleep
【Sleep on Your Rhythm】- Set your timer, or let it flow till morning. Volume fades softly—no sudden shifts, just seamless rest
【Controls That Guide You to Sleep】- A 45° tilt meets your hand where it naturally rests, so you can adjust it without effort, or even opening your eyes. No clicks, No light
【Looks Like Nature. Sleeps Like Peace】- Real wood texture and soft curves bring a touch of nature to your space—more aesthetically pleasing than the plain white designs out there. Natural design for a restful night's sleep

Bestseller No. 8

Adaptive Sound Technologies LectroFan Classic White Noise Machine - Compact Sleep Sound Machine for Bedroom, Travel, Study & More - 20 Non-Looping Fan & White Noise Variations

LectroFan Classic: This compact sleep sound machine from Adaptive Sound Technologies offers 20 non-looping (non-repeating) sounds, including fan sounds and white noise, to foster a tranquil sleep environment or provide speech privacy
Noise Masking Mastery: With precision volume control, the LectroFan sleep machine for deep sleep drowns out disruptive noise, helping to support sleep and relaxation for all ages
Sleep Timer Feature: Equipped with a convenient sleep timer, this sleep device can be set to automatically turn off, ensuring energy-efficient use while you drift into peaceful slumber
Portable Design Specs: Lightweight and USB-powered, this white noise machine for bedroom or travel measures 4.4 x 4.4 x 2.2 inches, perfect for on-the-go restorative rest
Innovative Solutions for Better Sleep: Adaptive Sound Technologies is focused 100% on designing, building, and selling quality and innovative sleep sound machines

Bestseller No. 9

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

WHITE NOISE, SIMPLIFIED: Dohm Uno features our Yogasleep sound: natural, comforting, fan-based noise, without the annoyance of moving air. It blocks out disruptive sounds like traffic, snoring, or neighbors, so it’s easier to sleep & concentrate.
CUSTOMIZED EXPERIENCE: Dohm Uno offers a simple one-speed setting while allowing you to effortlessly tailor the tone to your preferences. It's perfect for enhancing sleep quality, ensuring office privacy, soothing kids and babies & comforting pets.
CRAFTED WITH LOVE: For over 60 years, Yogasleep has consistently set the gold standard in crafting sleep-enhancing products, leading the way in the industry. It’s lovingly assembled by hand in the USA, a testament to our commitment to quality.
SIMPLE TO USE: Plug in Dohm Uno using the included 6-foot 120V AC power cable, flip the switch & find your happy sound. This sound machine is a lifesaver for better sleep, soothing babies, tuning out tinnitus, or escaping the snore-fest next to you.
CLASSIC DESIGN: Dohm Uno's timeless design fits into any space. Available in a wide palette of colors to match your style—white, black, gray, pink, tan, and even camo. To care for & clean your sound machine, wipe the exterior with a damp cloth.

SaleBestseller No. 10

Kipcush White Noise Machine with Night Light – Nursery Sound Machine with Soft Non-Glare Lamp, 30 Soothing Sounds, 8 Color Lights, Up to 8-Hour Timer for Baby & Adults

𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡-𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲: Designed with sustainability in mind, this white noise machine uses recycled materials and is supported by European eco-certification. A responsible choice that delivers reliable performance while reducing environmental impact, giving you peace of mind for both your family and the planet.
𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐬: Enjoy a carefully curated library of 30 high-quality sounds, including white noise, fan sounds, natural environments, and soothing lullabies. Each sound is engineered to be crisp, balanced, and consistent, helping mask disruptive noise and promote deeper sleep, focus, or relaxation.
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐧𝐞-𝐓𝐚𝐩 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤: Simplified controls eliminate scrolling and complicated menus. With a single tap, you can activate your preferred sound instantly—ideal for nighttime use, quick stress relief, or maintaining concentration without interruption.
𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝟖-𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭: Features eight calming, sleep-friendly light colors that create a relaxing atmosphere in bedrooms, nurseries, or living spaces. The soft illumination is designed to support natural sleep cycles without harsh brightness or eye strain.
𝐓𝐚𝐩-𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞: The entire 2.83-inch stainless steel speaker grill functions as a touch-sensitive control area, allowing effortless operation in complete darkness. This intuitive design enhances usability while maintaining a clean, modern appearance.

Last update on 2026-01-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API