Noise machines produce a steady sound or "white noise" that muffles outside noises. "Consumer Reports" magazine cites support for noise machines by Dr. David N. Neubauer of the Johns Hopkins Sleep Disorders Center. Neubauer suggests that these machines can help those with and without sleep problems get better sleep. These small machines can help you fall asleep more easily and reduce the number of times you wake up as a result of random noises.
Settings
Noise machines offer a range of settings, including different volume settings as well as different types of sounds or tones. Standard noise machines make "white noise" that sounds like a ceiling fan or air conditioner. Other machines make rain forest, waterfall, stream or heartbeat sounds.
Features
You can set some noise machines to shut off automatically after a certain amount of time. If you want to use the machine only while you're falling asleep, for example, you can set it to shut off after an hour. Some noise machines double as alarm clocks. Most noise machines have cords that plug into wall outlets, but some can also run on battery power.
Other Uses
Many doctors and therapists use noise machines to protect their patients' privacy by preventing conversations from carrying through office walls. You can also use noise machines to muffle stray street noises during the day while you work.
Price and Availability
Sleep sound machines range in price from $20 to $200. Most models cost less than $100. You can find them at large department stores or online retailers.
Consumer Research
In 2008, "Consumer Reports" magazine conducted a study in which groups of panelists tested sleep sound devices for 10 consecutive nights. At least 10 people tested each device. On average, 35 percent of testers said the device they tested helped them fall asleep more quickly, and 46 percent said it helped them stay asleep longer. The highest-rated devices had a higher success rate, with 50 percent of testers saying the devices helped them fall asleep more quickly and 60 percent saying the devices helped them stay asleep longer.
