News – Claire Jennings

Sleep Training Methods Explained: From Ferber to Gentle Parenting

One of the most important parts of early parenting is helping your baby learn how to fall asleep and how to stay asleep.  During the first few months of baby’s life, night time can be a challenging period for many families.  This is where sleep training comes in, a process of teaching your little one how to sleep independently and peacefully through the night. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach during this time.  From structured strategies like the Ferber Method to more gentle parenting techniques, your sleep training style should reflect your own values, your baby’s temperament, and the rhythm of your family. In this guide, we are going to break down the most popular sleep training techniques, using real-world insights and tips.  We’ll also explore how you can support this process with a white noise machine or sound machine.  This will help you create a sleep pattern that’s calm and soothing whilst being consistent. What Is Sleep Training? Simply put, sleep training helps your baby fall asleep without needing to be held, rocked or fed each time.  It’s about encouraging independence while still providing that emotional support. This foundation sets the stage for better sleep quality for both your baby and for yourself. Sleep training methods usually begin between 4–6 months, when babies start to sleep for longer stretches and when they aren’t reliant on multiple feeds during the night.  However, every child is different so it’s valuable to consult with a health professional before starting a new routine. Whether you choose to start this process early or wait a little longer, the main goal is to build those healthy sleep associations that are going to last a lifetime. 1. The Ferber Method (Graduated Extinction) Developed by Dr. Richard Ferber, the Ferber Method is one of the most well-known sleep training approaches, involving putting your baby down while they’re awake and gradually increasing the intervals between check-in times.  This is how it works: Place your baby in the crib while they’re drowsy but still awake Leave the room, returning at gradually increasing intervals, say 3, 5 and 10 minutes.  Comfort your baby with your voice but don’t pick them up Continue this until your baby falls asleep independently Many families will notice an improvement within a few nights. It can be emotionally tough for a parent in the beginning but it does build self-soothing skills. Sleep tip:  Use a white noise machine whilst implementing the Ferber technique and this will reduce any background noise, disruptive noise or household chatter.  The soothing sound signals bedtime and enables your baby’s ability to self-settle. 2. Extinction or “Cry It Out” “Cry it out”, known as extinction, involves putting baby to bed and not checking in on them during bouts of crying.  This can feel intense but some parents see results in a few days where baby adjusts and falls asleep. This is how it works Put your baby in the crib whale they are still awake Don’t return for check-ins, unless for safety worries Allow your baby to fall into slumber independently We understand this method isn’t for everyone, but it can be effective for babies who respond well to  routine and structure. Sleep tip: Create a reliable sleep environment for baby to sleep better and to build healthy sleep habits. A baby white noise machine will mask any external noise, so help your little one feel secure, even in a busy household.  3. The Chair Method This method entails a more gentle approach and offers comfort while encouraging independent sleep. The parent remains in the room but reduces their  presence gradually over time. This is how ow it works: Sit in  a chair close to your baby’s crib Offer verbal reassurance to baby without picking them up Move the chair further away every night until you're entirely out of the room This method can work well for families who want to be present but don’t want to create dependency. Sleep tip: By using calming sounds such as brown noise and pink noise from a sound machine, this will help your baby rely less on you being there in person and more on these natural sounds that signal it’s time for bed. 4. Pick Up Put Down This method helps babies to gradually learn how to fall asleep in their crib while feeling reassured. How it works: Place baby in the crib If they cry, pick them up briefly for a cuddle Once they are calm again, put them straight back in the crib Repeat this technique as needed We understand this can be time-consuming, but it’s rooted in comfort and trust and aligns with gentle parenting values. Sleep tip: Be firm in establishing a consistent routine, bath, lullaby, and a cuddle.  At this stage, turn on the white noise sound.  This regular sequence of behaviour builds predictability for baby, helping them feel relaxed and knowing it’s time to sleep. 5. No Tears Method (Gentle Parenting Approach) The gentle parenting approach, known as the No Tears Method, avoids baby crying for any length of time and focuses on bonding, comfort and a more gradual transition.gradual transition. This is how it works: Feed or rock your baby to sleep Slowly reduce the amount of assistance over a period of time Use strong sleep associations such as  lullabies, a night light or ambient noise  This can be the slowest method, but it does  prioritize emotional security and it builds a sleep foundation for more sensitive or anxious sleepers. Think about using a sound machine with volume control.  You can then adjust the soothing sound so it suits your baby’s preference.  Try this during naps or at bedtime changes. Choosing the Right Sleep Training Method This depends on your baby’s personality, your own comfort level, and the rest of your family’s needs. Ask yourself: Do I feel all right in allowing my baby to cry? Do I want to stay in the room or not? Am I hoping for quick results or prefer a slower transition? What type of sleep guide fits in with my parenting style? Regardless of whether you're using a sleep trainer device or sticking with other consistent rituals, the key word here is repetition. Babies thrive on predictable cues such as dim lighting, a familiar voice, or the gentle sound of a white noise machine. Why White Noise Works for Babies Regardless of the many sleep methods, a large number of  parents find using a baby white nose machine noticeably improves their baby’s ability to fall and stay asleep. Zello’s sensitively designed white noise machine for baby incorporates a wide range of natural sounds, simple volume settings and a portable design which fits seamlessly into any sleep setup or nursery.  Final Thoughts It’s a fact that sleep training is a journey and each of those journeys looks a little different.  Some babies will latch quickly on to the Ferber Method whilst others require further time and more cuddles.  What matters the most is that the approach you take feels right for your family At Zello, we strongly and wholeheartedly believe that with love, patience, and a handful of smart tools, such as a white noise machine, you can create nurturing and restful sleep routines that help your baby and you feel your best. Here's to many more sweet dreams and fewer sleepless nights. 

News – Sweaty Mama

How to Look After Your Health & Wellbeing as a New Mum

Whether you’re 6 weeks postpartum or 6 months into motherhood, one of our favourite brands, Sweaty Mama, are here to share some gentle reminders and practical tips to help you care for your body and mind.

News – Gemma Reynolds

New Parent’s Guide to White Noise: When, Where, and How to Use It

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From how to use it safely, to choosing the best white noise machine for your family. We'll also talk you through the many benefits of white noise.

News – Gemma Reynolds

Is White Noise Safe for Babies? What the Research Says

In this guide, you’ll learn what white noise really is and how it works. We’ll look at the latest research and explain how to use white noise safely.

News – Gemma Reynolds

From Colic to Catnaps: Why Parents Are Raving About White Noise Machines

Of course, every baby is different. But there is one sleep tool has consistently stood out for families across the world - sound machines. From colicky newborns to energetic toddlers who resist naps. White noise for babies has helped thousands of parents find calm during even the most difficult sleep stretches.

News – Gemma Reynolds

Portable White Noise Machines for Babies: Sleep Support on the Go

When it comes to baby sleep, one thing is certain, consistency matters. Babies thrive on routines and familiar sleep cues. But daily life doesn’t always happen at home. Whether you’re visiting family, taking a weekend trip, or going on holiday, your baby still needs rest.

News – Gemma Reynolds

How White Noise Sound Helps Your Baby Settle and Sleep

Struggling with night wakings? You’re not alone. This article explores why babies wake, how white noise can help them sleep better, and why Zello is a trusted choice for parents.

News – Gemma Reynolds

White Noise For Babies: Myths, Facts & Safety Tips

With any popular parenting tool, there are always a few misconceptions and myths. Is white noise safe? Will your baby become dependent?  In this guide, we’ll clear up common myths and show you how to safely use a white noise machine to help your baby, and you sleep better.

News – Stephanie Fuller

The Ultimate Baby Sleep Toolkit

Baby sleep is often inconsistent, and there’s no single solution that works for everyone. However, building a solid and comforting sleep routine using the right tools can make a huge difference.

News – Caroline Jones

Why Babies Sleep Better with Consistent Sound Cues

Helping a baby sleep well can sometimes feel like an impossible task. One night they drift off without fuss, and the next they wake every hour. From sudden noises to teething and growth spurts, many things can interrupt your baby’s sleep. But one of the most helpful and research-backed ways to improve rest is surprisingly simple, consistent white noise sound.  

News – Charlotte Hillyard

The Science Behind Baby Sleep Cycles: White Noise For Babies

Understanding baby sleep can often feel like trying to solve a puzzle. Some nights your baby sleeps peacefully, and other nights they’re wide awake every hour. Many parents wonder what they’re doing wrong, but the truth is that baby sleep is different from adult sleep. It all comes down to biology, and once you understand it, you can make small changes that help your baby sleep better. A white noise machine is a simple, effective tool that helps support healthy sleep. It works with your baby’s natural sleep patterns and helps create a calmer night for the whole family. What Makes Baby Sleep So Unique? Newborns spend around 50% of their sleep in active sleep, compared to adults who only spend around 20%. Active sleep, also known as REM sleep, often looks like your baby is awake or about to wake up. They may wriggle, squirm, open o4 flutter their eyes and even throw their arms and legs around. But I promise you, 99% of the time they are actually still asleep. At around the 4 month mark, your little ones sleep will shift to more complex sleep phases. This is where sleep starts to promote cell growth, physical and mental development, memory consolidation and much more. It is common to experience sleep challenges during this time, as the structure of your baby's sleep starts to change. This is where white noise machine sound can be incredibly helpful. A consistent white noise sound creates a calming background environment that helps babies feel secure and relaxed. This comfort helps them fall back to sleep on their own, so parents don’t have to step in as often. Because babies’ sleep cycles are so light and sensitive, even the smallest sounds, like footsteps, a closing door, or distant voices can disturb them. That’s why creating a consistent, familiar sleep environment matters so much. A white noise machine not only supports better sleep but also helps build a routine your baby can count on. How White Noise Helps With Sleep Transitions Before birth, babies are used to a world filled with constant sound — the mother’s heartbeat, the movement of blood, and external muffled noises. After birth, the quiet of a nursery can feel strange and uncomfortable to a baby. A white noise sound machine recreates that womb-like environment. It masks sudden noises like barking dogs, creaking floors, or traffic, helping babies move through sleep cycles with fewer disruptions. Over time, white noise for babies becomes a familiar sleep cue, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. By smoothing transitions between sleep cycles, white noise for sleeping helps babies establish healthier rest patterns. Zello’s Infant White Noise Machine: Made for Modern Families Zello offers an infant noise machine designed specifically for today’s parents. With no screens or bright lights, it’s ideal for use at night when you want to avoid waking your baby with unnecessary stimulation. We packed the machine with calming sounds, from gentle fan hums to heartbeat rhythms and soft nature tones. We carefully selected every sound to soothe your baby and support better sleep. As it's a portable sound machine, you can use it anywhere! In the nursery, on a walk in the pram, or while staying overnight at a family member’s house. You don’t need Wi-Fi, apps, or screens to use a Zello white noise machine, just press a button and let your baby relax. Why YouTube White Noise Isn’t the Best Option Some parents begin by using YouTube white noise videos, especially in the early weeks. These might work in the short term, but they also have a few downsides. Advertisements may play at any time, disrupting sleep Devices emit blue light, which interferes with healthy sleep patterns Phones and tablets may overheat or lose battery Notifications or internet issues can interrupt playback It requires keeping a screen near your baby, which is not recommended Zello white noise machines avoid these issues! How White Noise Supports Healthy Sleep Habits Babies thrive on routine. When you use a white noise machine for sleeping consistently, it becomes part of your baby’s daily rhythm. You can include it in your bedtime routine after a warm bath, during a feed, or while settling your baby into their crib. Using white noise for babies at both nap time and bedtime builds strong sleep associations. Even when you’re away from home, that familiar sound can make a new room feel more comfortable and help your baby sleep better. Many parents find that a white noise sound machine makes bedtime easier, helps their baby nap better, and improves overall sleep. White noise also helps signal to your baby that it's time to rest. Over time, the sound becomes a familiar cue that tells their body to wind down. This can be especially helpful during fussy evenings or sleep regressions. Safety Tips for Using White Noise To get the most out of your infant noise machine and ensure it’s used safely, follow these simple tips: Keep the volume low — about as loud as a gentle shower Choose steady, loop-free sounds with no abrupt changes Use it only during sleep times, not during play or feeding Reduce usage gradually as your baby becomes an independent sleeper Following these guidelines ensures that white noise for sleeping remains a supportive and healthy part of your child’s routine. A Smart and Thoughtful Gift for Families If you’re a new parent, or shopping for someone who is, a white noise machine makes a thoughtful and practical gift. Our range of white noise machines for babies uses safe materials, simple design, and dependable features. With long battery life, easy sound options, and no need for Wi-Fi, it’s a flexible and useful device. Families trust our devices, science backs them and specialists recommend them! This makes our machines some of the best white noise machines for newborns available today. Understanding how babies sleep is the first step toward helping your whole family rest better. A white noise machine covers up unwanted noise, making it easier for babies to sleep longer and more peacefully. At Zello, we create our white noise machines for real-life parenting. If you’re a new parent or searching for a useful gift, a portable white noise machine from Zello is a smart, reliable choice. Sleep can be tough in the early months, but the right tools make a huge difference! Help your baby sleep better, grow healthier, and give yourself the calm, quiet nights you’ve been hoping for. Our machines are compact, easy to use, and full of helpful features like soothing sounds, gentle night lights, and long battery life. You can take them anywhere, from the nursery to the car seat, to a weekend away. Zello is the perfect sleep aid and helps you build the perfect sleep environment no matter where you are. Zello is here to support your family’s sleep every step of the way!

News – Gemma Reynolds

The No.1 Baby Gift For New Parents: A White Noise Machine

When thinking of what to get for new parents, practical items are often the best. One of the most recommended gifts today is a white noise machine. White noise for babies is one of the most practical presents you can give.

News – Gemma Reynolds

The Benefits of Red Light and White Noise

At Zello, we know that better sleep changes everything, especially for families with babies. That’s why we made the Zello Portable Pro White Noise Machine. It’s a small, natural sleep aid with gentle sounds and soft red light to help your baby sleep longer and more peacefully.

News – Sophie Delaney

New Parent’s Survival Guide to Sleep

Let’s be honest - navigating newborn sleep is not for the faint hearted. Between the constant night feeds and early wake ups, the exhaustion can feel completely overwhelming. It's isn't a surprise that sleep deprivation is used as a form of torture! But believe us, it doesn't have to be like this.

News – Sophie Delaney

Is White Noise Safe for Babies? What the Experts Say

At Zello, we know how important sleep is for the whole family. A good night’s sleep is essential for both babies and parents. That’s why we create safe, soothing, and parent-approved white noise machines for babies, newborns, infants, and adults. But is white noise actually safe for newborns? Let’s dive into what the experts say—and how to use it safely and effectively.

News – Sophie Delaney

Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment for Your Baby

At Zello, we know that every parent wants to give their baby the best possible start and that begins with good sleep. A well-rested baby is a happier baby. If you can create the right sleep environment, this will play an important role in supporting their circadian rhythm. Based on expert advice, here are our top 5 tips for creating the perfect sleep environment for your baby. As well as how white noise can be a game-changer for your little one’s rest.

News – Charlotte Hillyard

Why I Recommend White Noise As An Infant Sleep Specialist

In conclusion, white noise is an excellent tool to help both babies and parents get better sleep. It creates a soothing, steady background sound that helps mask disruptive noises like barking dogs, noisy siblings, or street traffic. By reducing these interruptions, white noise can help babies sleep soundly throughout the night.

News – The Sleep Charity

Building Better Bedtimes: Join Our Free Webinar Sponsored by Zello

Are you a parent of a young child aged between 12 months and 5 years? Do youdream of easier, more peaceful bedtimes? We’re excited to announce a specialfree webinar, hosted by The Sleep Charity, and sponsored by Zello.

News – Claire Jennings

Best White Noise Machine Of 2024: Zello Leads the Way

When it comes to making sure your little one get a great nights sleep, having a trusty white noise machine is like having a superhero on your parenting team. As we kick off 2024, Zello proudly stands as the sleep experts, fine-tuning our tech to cater to the real needs of adults, children and babies!

News – Sophie Delaney

Are White Noise Machines Good For Babies?

For many parents, a white noise machine becomes a must-have part of their bedtime routine - and for good reason. Whether it’s calming a fussy newborn or blocking out household noise during daytime naps, the benefits are clear. As long as it’s used safely and at a gentle volume, white noise can be a simple but effective sleep aid. It helps your baby fall asleep faster and sleep soundly, so both of you can enjoy the restful sleep you deserve.

News – Sophie Delaney

Which Is Better For Sleep? White Noise, Brown Noise or Pink Noise?

You might already be familiar with white noise, a steady, ambient sound that helps block out background noise. But did you know that there are other types of noise, like pink noise and brown noise, that can offer different benefits? Each type of noise has its own unique sound and qualities, giving them a go might just be the key to unlocking the best night’s sleep for you. Let’s take a closer look at how each can help you relax and drift off.

News – Sophie Delaney

Is Red Light Good For Sleeping?

Red light is a real game-changer when it comes to helping your little one drift off peacefully and stay asleep for longer. Soft amber and red tones have special properties that make them ideal for the bedtime routine.