How Loud Should White Noise Be for Babies?
This is such a common question, and it’s a really important one to get right. White noise can be a fantastic tool for helping babies feel calm, settle more easily, and stay asleep for longer stretches—but only if it’s used safely and effectively.
The “Sweet Spot” for Volume
If your baby is calm and it’s bedtime, white noise should be set at around 50–55 decibels. To put that into perspective, that’s about the same volume as a running shower or someone softly talking in the background. It should sound soothing and constant, not overpowering.
Why Not Louder?
Sometimes parents are tempted to turn the volume up high, especially if their baby is unsettled or crying. While it can be tempting to think “louder must work better,” using white noise that’s too loud over long periods can risk your baby’s hearing. Think of white noise as a gentle background comfort—not as a way to block out every sound.
When to Adjust the Volume
Bedtime/Naps: Keep it around 50–55 decibels.
During Soothing (e.g. when baby is very fussy): You can temporarily turn the volume up slightly (closer to the level of your baby’s cry), but once they settle, always bring it back down to the safe level.
Environment Considerations: If your home is particularly noisy (siblings, pets, street noise), you may need to adjust slightly—but still aim to keep it within that safe range.
Practical Tips
Measure it once: You don’t need to guess! There are free decibel meter apps for your phone. Place your phone in your baby’s sleep space (at the same level where their head would be) to check the sound.
Keep the machine away from the cot/crib: Don’t place it right next to your baby’s ears. A safe distance is at least 2 metres (around 6 feet).
Consistency matters: Use the same sound each night to help your baby learn the association that “this sound means sleep.”
Final Thought
White noise can be an amazing sleep tool when used correctly. Remember: steady, consistent, and safe volume is key. Think of it as creating a calm sleep environment, not adding another stimulation.