Should I buy a noise machine for baby sleep?

For many families, a noise machine can be helpful for baby sleep, but it’s not mandatory.

It may help by:

• making the sleep environment feel more familiar and calming for newborns,
• masking household noises like siblings, pets, or TV,
• creating a consistent cue that it’s time to sleep.

If you choose to use one, keep the sound at a moderate level, place it away from the crib, and use a steady continuous sound rather than one that changes on and off. A timer can sometimes wake a baby when the sound stops suddenly, so continuous play is often preferred.

Exact safety guidance can vary, so it’s worth checking current pediatric recommendations or your pediatrician’s advice.