We've all heard of white noise and how good it can be for helping us nod off, but some people find different kinds of noises more helpful, such as brown noise and even pink noise. But what is pink noise? And how can it help us sleep?
What is pink noise?
The colour of the noise is determined by the energy, frequency and speed of the sound. Pink noise produces a deeper sound as they're at a lower frequency and can sound very flat and even to the ear. Nature sounds have a lot of pink noise in them including rustling leaves, wind, heartbeats and steady rain, all of which your baby might find very calming and relaxing.
How can pink noise help kids get to sleep?
While some noises stimulate your brain, such as your alarm clock or loud horns and sirens, others can relax you and calm the brain.
There have been numerous studies into the science behind pink noisewhich suggests there is a positive link between pink noise and deep sleep. Despite this research, there still hasn't been as much research into the benefits of pink noise as there has been for white noise, so the jury is still out on which kind of noise is better for sleep. Some parents do find however that their little one prefers pink noise or brown compared to white noise.
Ways to listen to pink noise
The best way to listen to pink noise is on a streaming service such as YouTube. We've listed some of the best videos below:
You could also try listening with an app or alternatively, if your child seems to react well to pink noise, a pink noise machine could be for you.
Best white noise machine
Description
This machine produces ten different kinds of both white and pink noise, so you get the best of both worlds. It's also really compact so can sit comfortably upon most shelves and tables.
One reviewer said, "Small compact lots of different sounds to choose from . Helps my little three year old sleep well whilst keeping all the noise outside his door to a minimum . Very happy thanks."
Best sleep sensor toy
www.kiddies-kingdom.com
Description
The sound of the heartbeat is one of the most soothing pink noise sounds making this adorable cuddly toy perfect for any baby trying to get to sleep.
One reviewer said, "Would definitely recommend. I think it’s amazing and worth the money - I’ve definitely noticed a difference in my babies sleeping. Great for on the move naps as you can attach to pram handle."
Best sleep fan
Description
This machine is ideal for warmer nights, featuring both an oscillating fan and pink noise sounds to make sure your tot is relaxed and cool during the night.
One reviewer said, "This is fabulous for the pink noise aspect, I wasn't expecting much but it really helps me sleep better. I live with a noisy person who has a TV on loud 24/7, so used to wear earplugs when sleeping, however this gently drowns out enough sound to enable me to sleep through soundly. It's barely noticeable when falling asleep too."
Best night light with pink noise
www.kidly.co.uk
Description
Featuring both white and pink noise, this adorable rabbit cuddly restarts with soothing sounds as soon as it hears crying to help keep your baby calm. Best of all, it's machine washable and suitable from birth.
One reviewer said, "My four year old loves this rabbit. She can work it herself and it definitely comforts her if she wakes up in the middle of the night. You can either have it set to the white light, or the rotating colours - you can't pick just one of the colours which is a shame as my daughter just wanted the pink light. But she's happy enough with having all the colours. The lullaby is actually quite soothing and not too annoying to listen to!"
Recommended pink noise sleep aid
www.hippychick.com
Description
Available in six different colours with five different sound options including white noise, pink noise, rainfall, ocean waves, and heartbeat. It also has 15 different volume settings and fades out after 60 minutes.
One reviewer said, "The myHummy Sleep Aid sensory heart with 11hrs constant white noise has been a game changer for our little one's sleep. It's transportable and looks good too."
Best sleep aid with lullaby
www.boots.com
Description
With four soothing sounds including a heartbeat, pink noise, lullaby and waterfall sound plus two light options with a calming pink glow and soft white night light your baby will feel comforted and settled before sleep.
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One reviewer said**, "Snüz SnüzCloud Sleep Aid Is great with the different noise settings to suit children’s needs. Also I like that there are two light options so that there can be a gentle pink glow to help baby be comforted but not have a bright night light"