How Loud Should Baby White Noise Be?

When it comes to soothing babies, white noise has gained significant popularity over the past few years. Many parents turn to white noise machines, fans, or apps to help lull their little ones to sleep. However, the key question many new parents find themselves asking is: how loud should baby white noise be?

Ideally, baby white noise should be kept at a safe volume to protect the delicate ears of infants. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a safe volume should be no louder than 50 decibels, or about the volume of a soft conversation. Baby monitors also offer white noise features at a safe volume. However, in cases where the white noise machine lacks a decibel measurement, parents can use smartphone apps to measure the noise level.

It is important to bear in mind that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends avoiding continuous sound exposure over 85 decibels for more than eight hours to prevent noise-induced hearing loss. With that in mind, it is crucial to keep the baby white noise at a moderate level.

Another factor to consider is distance. Positioning the white noise source too close to the baby’s crib or sleep area can cause the noise to be too loud. To maintain a safe level, it is recommended to place the device at least 6-8 feet away from the baby’s crib or bed.

In conclusion, maintaining a safe volume level for baby white noise is crucial to protecting the delicate ears of infants. Keep the level at 50 decibels or below and maintain a safe distance from the sleeping area to maximize the calming effects without causing harm. New parents can benefit from using smartphone apps to measure the noise levels and ensure a serene sleep environment for their little one.