Why white noise calms newborns
Inside the womb, babies are surrounded by loud, constant noise — blood flow, the heartbeat, the muffled outside world. White noise recreates that familiar, enveloping sound, which can activate a calming reflex, ease the transition to sleep, and mask sudden household noises that would otherwise wake a light-sleeping baby.
How loud should white noise be for a baby?
This is the most important question. Keep infant white noise below about 50 decibels — roughly the level of a quiet conversation or a soft shower — and place the machine well away from the crib. Turn it down as low as still works, and consider a timer.
- Target around 50 dB or lower; use a phone dB-meter app to check.
- Keep the speaker at least 2 metres (7 feet) from the baby.
- Never place the device inside or attached to the crib.
- Give your baby quiet time while awake, too.