Got a new baby or expecting one? You’ve likely heard about white noise machines. Midwives, sleep consultants, and fellow parents often recommend white noise for babies as a helpful tool for improving sleep. And for good reason, many families have found real success using it.
But 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.

Myth 1: White Noise Machines Are Unsafe for Babies
Safety is often the first concern for new parents. A common myth is that white noise machine sound might harm your baby’s hearing or development. But research shows otherwise. When used correctly, white noise is completely safe and actually promotes better rest.
Studies show white noise can help babies fall asleep faster, sleep longer, and wake up less during the night.
To use your infant noise machine safely, follow these guidelines:
- Keep the volume at or below 50 decibels (like a soft shower)
- Choose smooth, non-jarring white noise sounds like soft static or a fan hum
At Zello, our best white noise machine models are designed with safety first.

Myth 2: Babies Will Become Dependent on White Noise
Some parents worry their baby will get too used to white noise and won’t sleep without it.
Just like a bedtime story or soft blanket, white noise for babies becomes part of a healthy sleep association. It helps their brain recognise when it’s time to rest.
If you ever decide to wean your child off white noise, you can do so gradually by lowering the volume over time.
As your baby’s sleep improves, it’s usually easy to stop using white noise in their bedtime routine without any stress.

Myth 3: Any Type of White Noise Is Fine
It may be tempting to play white noise from any source, but not all options are created equal. Some parents turn to white noise YouTube videos or mobile apps, especially early on.
While these can help in a pinch, they aren’t ideal for regular use. Here’s why:
- Ads can interrupt and wake your baby
- Internet buffering may cause playback to stop suddenly
- Phones and tablets introduce blue light, which interferes with sleep
- Volume levels may vary and can’t always be controlled safely
A white noise machine solves these problems! We build our sleep aid devices without internet, screens, or ads, and design them specifically for safe, long-term sleep support. With one press, your infant noise machine plays a consistent, soothing sound that helps your baby rest without interruption.

Myth 4: You Should Play White Noise All Day
A common misconception is that white noise for babies should be playing around the clock. In reality, it’s most effective when used during naps and night-time sleep, not all day.
Using it too much can make it less effective, and babies also need to learn when it’s time to play and when it’s time to rest. Use your white noise machine at bedtime, and switch it off when your baby is awake.
This helps your baby link white noise with sleep, making it easier to relax at bedtime.

Myth 5: White Noise Is Only for Newborns
White noise for sleeping works great for newborns, and its benefits don’t stop after the early weeks. As babies grow into toddlers, sleep challenges like regressions, teething, nightmares, and new environments continue.
We build our white noise machines to grow with your child. From newborn naps to toddler bedtimes, many families use their machines well into early childhood. Some adults even enjoy white noise sound for their own sleep or for blocking distractions.
With Zello, your child can benefit from white noise through every stage of development.

Myth 6: White Noise Machines Are Only for the Nursery
White noise machines aren't just for babies, adults use them too! For sleep, concentration, and relaxation. Whether you're trying to rest in a shared space, meditate, or work from home, white noise can help.
Our stylish, portable white noise machines are perfect for the nursery, bedroom, or even your home office. Many parents use their white noise machine for office focus during the day and move it back to the nursery at night. The compact design and long battery life make it easy to use anywhere.
Zello products are easy to charge and take with you, so you’ll have sleep support wherever you go—from hotels to family visits.

The Truth: White Noise Is a Safe and Proven Sleep Tool
When used properly, white noise for babies is one of the safest and most effective tools for improving sleep. Our stand alone machines, and portable sound machines, are gentle, easy to use, and trusted by both science and families all over the world.
Zello understands the needs of modern parents. That’s why we design our infant noise machines for comfort, convenience, and consistent performance. Whether you're starting a routine, soothing a fussy baby, or helping a toddler sleep longer, white noise machines help!

Award-Winning Sleep Support
Parents love Zello, and industry experts have recognised our white noise machines too. Named Best White Noise Machine of 2024, our products stand out for their thoughtful design, safety features, and real-world performance.

You’ll find lots of varying advice about baby sleep online. But when it comes to white noise, the results are clear, it helps babies relax, fall asleep faster, and sleep longer, safely and consistently.
Don’t let myths keep you from discovering a tool that could transform your nights. With the right setup, a white noise machine baby product can bring more rest, less stress, and a calmer home for everyone.
Whether you’re buying for your own family or as a thoughtful gift, a Zello white noise machine is a smart choice. Trusted, tested, and built for the real rhythms of parenting — it’s a sound decision in every sense.