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White noise for babies: how to use it safely

Many parents use white noise, a fan or a hair dryer sound. Volume, distance and time matter more than which sound you pick.

What the research found

A 2014 study in Pediatrics measured 14 infant sound machines. At maximum volume, all of them went above 50 dBA at about 30 cm (1 ft), the limit recommended for hospital nurseries, and some were loud enough to be a risk to hearing if played for hours (summary by CHOP).

Simple rules

  • Volume: the lowest that works. A good guide is softer than a quiet shower or a normal conversation.
  • Distance: phone or speaker at least 2 m (7 ft) from the crib, never inside it or next to the baby's head.
  • Time: use a timer, or lower the sound once the baby is asleep.
  • Check: a free sound-meter app at the crib helps you see if you are under 50 dB.

Choosing the sound

Parents use white noise, a hair dryer, a fan or a shush. Any steady sound with no sudden peaks works; a video with ads in the middle does not.

When to talk to a doctor

Brezi is not a medical device. If your baby cries for long periods, sleeps very little or you have any concern, talk to your pediatrician.

Questions

Can white noise damage a baby's hearing?

Very loud sound for many hours can. That's why volume and distance matter: keep it low and away from the crib.

Should it play all night?

There is no consensus. Many parents use a timer or lower the volume after the baby falls asleep.

Will my baby depend on it?

Some babies get used to it as a sleep cue. You can lower the volume little by little when you want to stop.

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