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White noise sound machines have been around for decades, but have seen a surge recently, and become popular again as people look for ways to enhance their sleep quality, block out distractions, and create a more relaxing environment. What we take in during the day (and especially right before bedtime) affects our sleep at night significantly – stress from work, relationships, and the news can raise cortisol levels and get the body into a tense, “fired up” state when you want to be calming down. A good white noise machine not only blocks out distracting sounds that might keep you up, but also gives you something peaceful to focus on so you can drift off.
However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. We’ve selected our top picks to help you relax and get to sleep.
White Noise Machine Buying Guide:
Keep these features in mind when shopping for your next white noise sound machine.
Sound Quality and Volume Control: One of the most important factors to consider when buying a white noise sound machine is the sound quality. You’ll want to look for a device that produces clear, consistent white noise, without any audible loops or interruptions, as these can defeat the whole purpose of giving your distracted mind something unbroken to focus on. Additionally, look for a device with an adjustable volume control too (or more than one), so you can easily find the perfect volume level to suit your needs. And remember that loudness doesn’t automatically mean better sound quality.
Battery Life and Charging Options: Another important factor to consider is the battery, especially if this’ll be traveling with you. Look for a device that offers long battery life, so you can use it throughout the night without having to worry about recharging blindly at 3 a.m. Additionally, you should consider the charging options too, as some devices may require a traditional wall plug, while others offer USB charging, making it easier to charge on the go.
Portable Design: A portable white noise sound machine should be easy to carry and use wherever you lay your head. Look for a device that’s compact, lightweight, and easy to pack in your bag or luggage. Some devices may also offer a built-in handle or strap for added convenience. Even if you’re not planning on traveling anytime soon, we suggest getting a portable machine anyway. Chances are, you’ll get used to it in your home, and when you do need to hit the road, you’ll be glad to take it with you.
Variety of Sounds: While white noise is the primary reason many people buy a sound machine, some devices may offer a range of different sounds to choose from, including nature, ambient noise, and other calming audio. This can be a useful feature if you want to switch things up and try different sounds to help you sleep or relax, even study or do some yoga, and create a peaceful environment in your space during the day.
Timer and Auto-Off Feature: Having a timer and auto-off feature can be especially helpful when using your white noise sound machine at bedtime. The timer allows you to set the device to turn off automatically after a certain period of time, so you don’t have to worry about waking up in the middle of the night to turn it off. It’s really useful once you get in the habit and learn how long it generally takes you to fall asleep, so you can set it and peacefully relax.
