After spending months cocooned in the quiet comfort of the womb, the outside world can feel a bit overwhelming for your baby. All those new sights, sounds and sensations can take a little getting used to.
That’s where white noise comes in. It’s become a go-to for many parents because it’s an easy, effective way to help settle crying or unsettled babies.
What is white noise?
White noise is a constant, gentle sound that masks other background noise. It mimics the whooshing sounds your baby heard in the womb, helping them feel safe and soothed.
It’s often compared to the static from an old-school radio or TV. Nothing too exciting, just enough to take the edge off other distractions, helping both babies and adults drift off and stay asleep.
Yes, it’s not just for babies. Plenty of tired parents swear by white noise for getting a better night’s sleep, too.
Using white noise as part of your bedtime routine
If you're keen to use sound to help settle your baby, it’s worth making it part of their nightly wind-down.
Babies thrive on routine, just like we do. So starting their bedtime around the same time each evening can really help. Keep an eye out for those sleepy signs, like rubbing eyes, yawning, getting a bit grizzly, and keep things calm and low-key.
A warm bath and a quiet story are great ways to ease into the evening. Then, once they're ready for sleep, dim the lights and pop on some gentle white noise or a soothing sound. It can work wonders to help them nod off, and stay that way.
Is white noise bad for babies?
Nope, white noise isn’t harmful for babies. When used the right way, it’s totally safe and can be a really helpful tool. Soothing newborns, recreating the comforting sounds of the womb, and blocking out household noise so your baby can sleep more peacefully.
Think of white noise as a handy sleep cue, not something you have to use. Just a simple, gentle way to help your baby wind down.
- Keep the volume low: Stick to under 50 decibels. That’s about as loud as a soft shower. If you’ve got to raise your voice to be heard over it, it’s too loud.
- Don’t place it too close: Pop the white noise machine at least 2 metres away from where your baby sleeps.
- Use it just for sleep: Reserve white noise for naps and nighttime. Running it all day can reduce its impact.
- Wean off slowly: If you decide to stop using white noise as your baby gets older, phase it out gradually to avoid any sleep hiccups.
How loud should white noise be for your baby?
White noise shouldn’t be louder than 50 decibels. That’s roughly the sound of a gentle shower or a quiet chat at home. It should be calming, not overwhelming. If it feels soothing to you, chances are it’s just right for your bub, too.
Keep the device at least 2 metres away from wherever your baby’s sleeping, whether that’s the cot, pram or bassinet.
When should you stop using white noise?
There’s no hard-and-fast rule. Some parents start to ease off around 12–18 months, while others keep it going into toddlerhood and beyond. It really depends on your little one and what fits your routine.
Signs it might be time to stop using white noise
- Your baby is falling asleep easily without it
- You’re travelling more and want less gear to pack
- Your toddler’s more interested in the noise than sleepy from it
How to wean off white noise?
- Take it slow: Gradually turn the volume down over a few weeks
- Start with naps: Try phasing it out during daytime sleeps first
- Stick to your routine: Keep the rest of your bedtime wind-down the same
White noise is a helpful tool, but like all tools, you can put it down when it’s no longer needed. Just follow your baby’s lead.
What is pink noise?
Pink noise is the most natural and balanced of all the sound options, it’s like gentle background noise that creates a calming atmosphere. It helps promote deeper sleep by boosting slow brain wave activity, which is key for memory and learning.
The Sleep Foundation explains that, “like white noise, pink noise is a broadband sound that includes a range of frequencies.” What sets pink noise apart is that it has lower-pitched tones than white noise. Some researchers even liken it to the steady sound of a waterfall.
The Tommee Tippee Deammaker uses pink noise to help settle babies and encourage them to sleep better, for longer.
