Noise, also known as white noise, can help a child fall asleep for several reasons:
Mimicking the womb environment: White noise resembles the sounds that the child heard in the mother's womb. There are constant noises and sounds in the womb, such as the mother's heartbeat, blood flow, and other bodily sounds. This constant and gentle noise can have a calming effect on newborns because it reminds them of the safe environment of the womb.
Masking other sounds: White noise helps mask other random or sudden sounds in the environment that could wake the child or prevent them from falling asleep. In this way, it creates a calmer and more controlled sleeping environment.
Calming effect: Just as for some adults, constant noise (such as the sound of rain or wind) can have a calming effect, the same can be true for children. A constant and predictable sound can help reduce stress and calm the nervous system.
Supporting deeper sleep: Some studies suggest that white noise can help people achieve deeper sleep by reducing the likelihood of being woken up by something. This can be particularly beneficial for children who may easily wake up during the night.
It is important to note that while white noise can be helpful for some children, it should be used cautiously and at a moderate volume to avoid potential hearing damage. It is recommended to use noise at a volume that is not louder than the sound of a shower.
There are several ways to create noise and help your baby fall asleep.
Turn on a vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, or extractor hood. While older children may be afraid of them, they can remind infants of the calming environment before birth. In the car in an emergency, the sound of the air conditioning blowing at maximum can work, but be careful not to blow air directly on the baby.
Try different noise sounds on Youtube or Spotify. It is possible to play them on a phone, which you can, for example, put in a stroller.
If you want to use a mobile phone and not unnecessarily use data, you can try, for example, this application. We recommend turning on airplane mode and silent mode so that the baby is not disturbed by an unexpected phone call or other notifications.
“Noise helps my son fall asleep, at home we solve it with a vacuum cleaner or an extractor hood. When I'm out for a walk, I reach for an app or noise on youtube.”
“The sshh app is great, Jonášek sleeps peacefully and nothing disturbs him. Don't forget to mute the sounds or activate airplane mode.”
“I was surprised at how a fairly loud hair dryer can soothe a baby.”
