White noise is a type of sound that contains many frequencies with equal intensities, and it is composed of all the sounds the human ear is capable of hearing. White noise is a key tool in soothing and calming babies, especially newborns. Here are some benefits of white noise for babies:
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Soothes and Calms: White noise helps turn on a babys calming reflex, or their built-in "reset button" to calm crying and bring on sleep. It creates a comfortable, womb-like environment that calms infants, encouraging them to stop crying and fall asleep faster.
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Masks Other Noises: White noise masks other distracting noises so that your baby can fall asleep and remain sleeping.
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Mimics Womb Sounds: White noise mimics womb sounds, such as a mother's heartbeat and digestive noises, and creates a soothing, comfortable, and familiar environment where babies feel protected and calm.
When using white noise for babies, it is important to keep the volume no louder than the sound of a soft shower and to place the white noise machine at least 7 feet away from the baby's sleep space. It is also recommended to not use white noise all day and to let the baby learn the normal everyday sounds of the home during their calm, awake hours.
