New parents understand that getting a baby asleep is no easy task. It takes attentive care, a calm environment, and engaging yet quiet stimulus, and even with all those a baby may still have a hard time falling asleep. One possible solution is a sound machine.
Sound machines that have babies in mind operate similarly to other sound machines, except there is usually a special selection of sounds that are soothing for young ones. Extra features and age-appropriate design choices can be hallmarks of these sound machines as well. Here are our favorites:
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How We Picked
Sound machines can be a new parent’s best friend. These devices play soothing noises and can use calming or engaging light displays to help settle a child down. While some sound machines are general purpose with some functionality geared towards comforting babies, other sound machines are made exclusively for parents to use in this regard. With that in mind, we have identified some key characteristics to look at when comparing various products:
Sound selections
A sound machine is only as good as the sounds it produces. Sometimes a single sound played every night can be enough to get a baby asleep. Othertimes, however, it is going to take a variety of different noises that are cycled from night to night.
Baby sound machines can have over a dozen different noises and lullabies, while some only have one sound it can produce. That difference begs the question though, is quantity better than quality? Some sound machines have lots of sounds it can produce, but they all sound similar or have the same robotic quality.
Nightlight
A distinguishing feature of sound machines designed for children is that they often have a night light component. These can come in a few forms. Some are clearly designed to provide a subtle yet calming presence in the room.
Some products go in a totally different direction and have fun and engaging lights that variably change color or even project patterns on the ceiling. This style of nightlight is meant to engage the child and distract them enough to ease their nerves and get them to sleep. With either style, parents will be able to safely navigate a baby’s room due to the nightlight.
Operation
As with most products, some sound machines are easier to operate than others. With some, there are complicated procedures for setting timers, changing the sounds, and even adjusting the volume. Some may require a learning curve or even some online consultation from other users.
More modern devices are moving in the direction of phone-controlled operation. This allows parents to remotely change the sounds and lights without entering the baby’s room and disturbing a nice nap. These phone-operated products often have a wider range of capabilities, such as programming daily schedules, through the use of proprietary apps.
Tips
Not sure which baby sound machine is right for you? Before you make your decision, consider the following:
- Is this for you or for a gift?
- If this is a gift, keep in mind that many parents might already have a similar product. It may make sense to consult with them first.
- To be safe, it may be prudent to get something that has a unique flair, like a cute design, interesting sounds, or light projection. Parents may have something more standard.
- Do you travel often?
- Those who will be traveling with their families might need to find a product that is battery powered and lightweight.
- If traveling to the same place often, it may be wise to get multiple sound machines to keep one in each place. One can even go in the car..
