Pink Noise – The Best Sound for Sleep

12/27/2019 by Ben Trapskin

If you ever have trouble falling asleep at night, someone might have suggested the white noise technique to you. While such a method is quite familiar with the latest invention to help improve our sleep quality is through pink noise.

While it may sound counterintuitive to sleep under the guidance of more noise such as the buzz of a radio station or the static of a muted TV, these sounds are pleasant to the human ears and can do a lot in making you fall asleep. Then what is the “pink noise” all about?

In simple words, pink noise – the best sound for sleep is a natural-sounding mix of low and high frequencies that aids in a deeper sleep and better memory. The primary difference between white noise and pink noise is the intensity of the sound frequency that is intended to lull people to sleep. The pink noise is more balanced and soothing to the human ear than white noise.

The goal of playing such noise is to block out any external sounds like noisy neighbors, street traffic, and other noisy distractions that are sleep-disrupting. Studies reveal that pink noise helps in reducing brain activity, thereby leading to a more stable sleep.

Before you plan to switch over to this mysterious shade of pink noise, you need to gain a more in-depth insight as to what distinguishes this unique sound from that of other sound-masking apps.

More Natural to The Human Ear

This statement has a different meaning than what most people interpret. It doesn’t mean that the “sound of the rainforest” breed of natural. Instead, it means that the pink noise sounds more balanced and soothing to the static white noise or similar other sounds.

The white noise is a mixture of different sounds of color that are combined to create a single giant sonic barrier. In contrast, the pink noise operates similarly, except that the sound present at the lower end of the spectrum are much louder and the sounds at the higher end are much softer. This produces a gentle and less jarring sound that seems more like a light rainstorm or waterfall.

Promotes Sound and Stable Sleep

Both pink and white noises act as sound barriers that can block out other outside noises while you are snoozing. Most people are not aware that sound itself does not make us aware. Instead, it is the alteration in the sound level that does the trick.

Therefore, producing a noise that is relatively more even and consistent and effectively masks the changes in external noise, helps the user to experience uninterrupted sleep.

While white, brown, and pink sound all operate with the same primary goal, the pink noise is more effective in steadying and slowing down brain waves for inducing a high-quality sleep.

Helps You with Memory Recall

In the sleep cycle, deep non-rapid eye movement happens when the brain goes into the process of memory consolidation. At that point, the input of pink noise can help with cognitive retention. Studies reveal that sleepers who are infused with pink noise acoustic stimulation are more successful in recalling memory up to three times than those without such noise.

However, there is a lot more research to be done on the cognitive abilities of pink noise. Nonetheless, it would be a wise decision to play some pink noise the night before any big presentation.

Aids Productivity in Your Waking Hours

Pairing pink noise with your busy daily schedule can enhance your productivity. Not only can it help in masking the chattering of coworkers but also help in sharpening the focus. One study reveals that pink noise minimizes distractions while talking and eliminates pauses while writing.

How Pink Noise Benefits Your Sleep Health

Some of the commonly experienced benefits of pink noise include –

Falling asleep more quickly by masking all distracting sounds.
Improving sleep quality by extending the amount of time spent in a deep sleep.
Improving memory retention.
Those having trouble drifting off can choose to listen to pink noise for improved sleep quality and getting up fresh in the morning.

Pink Noise FAQs

What Type of Noise Is Best For Sleep?

Relaxing and deep sleep is critical to maintaining a sharp and robust memory. Both of these decline with age and can be restored and revived with the help of effective sleep strategies like the use of pink noise – the best sound for sleep. A study by the Frontiers in Human Neuroscience reveals that listening to certain soothing sounds like the pink noise can promote deeper sleep and develop stronger memories among older adults.

What Is Pink Noise to Help You Sleep?

Pink noise is a combination of low and high frequencies that sounds more natural and balanced than similar other noise therapies such as “white noise” and “brown noise.” The noise aids in improved sleep, meditation, and masking of unwanted external sounds while sleeping.

What Is Pink Noise Sound Like?

The noise is often considered as superior to white noise and closely resembles sounds found in nature. It sounds more like a combination of the sounds from the ocean and a TV set. Also, sometimes referred to as Flicker Noise, this sound emits equal energy as all sound frequency octaves. This means that noise or bass frequencies that sound more like the natural power of the ocean can be considered as pink noise.

What Does Pink Noise Do to Your Brain?

The pink noise is responsible for enhancing the activity of the brain that is associated with deep phases of sleep. This has the potential for increasing deep sleep while dramatically improving memory in older adults. However, research studies are yet to establish that pink noise is better than white noise.

A Final Word of Advice

While more researches are being conducted every day to support the contribution and effectiveness of pink noise as the best sound for sleep, you can always take the help of this specific sound therapy if you are looking for a sleep improvement strategy.

Check out the Lectro Fan which offers Pink Noise as well as other noises to choose from.

Best White Noise Machines – 2019 Edition

04/17/202305/14/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Everyone enjoys a quiet, undisturbed sleep every night; not everyone is fortunate enough to have that luxury. Sleep is one of those things that suffer from the worst distractions and disturbances. Sleep does not require focus or concentration, and yet, a vast number of people around the world suffers from poor sleep quality because of various distractions. Among the biggest distractions to sleep are environmental noises. From late night traffic to loud music to noisy neighbors, a number of environmental factors can rob us of the restful sleep that we require every night.

Various studies have found that those who live in a noisy environment or neighborhood are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders. Unfortunately, most urban people tend to live in noisy neighborhoods, where too many people live in close proximity, and the traffic can get unbearable at times. There are people who can sleep through a tornado, but there are others who don’t have that ability. If you are sensitive to ambient noises, you can go for nights at a stretch without proper sleep. And not getting sufficient sleep for a prolonged period can result in various health problems, affect mood and appetite and negatively impact productivity and concentration. The end result is that your health, work, and social life suffer, all because of insufficient sleep.

This is the reason why white noise machines are slowly becoming popular around the world. The device earlier meant for babies is now used by a large number of adults to fall asleep more easily.

How White Noise Helps?

Ambient noises like the sound of traffic can seem like it’s beyond your control, but there are things you can do to minimize the impact such noises have on your sleep. You can try putting up thick curtains or use soundproof glass for your windows, but the best way to manage environmental noise is by drowning them out. And nothing drowns out noise better than some other kind of noise.

‘White noise’ is an umbrella term for any type of sound that’s capable of drowning out background noises. When it comes to white noise machines, it is generally in the form of soothing or repetitive sounds. Because of its ability to drown out disruptive sounds and help people fall asleep easily, white noise is considered a sleep aid. Those who live in a noisy environment or travel frequently use white noise machines to fall asleep at night. Some models are designed for adult use while some are meant for babies and little kids.

Even till a few years ago, the use of a white noise machine wasn’t very common, but because a large number of people face sleep disturbances from environmental noise, they now use a sound machine to fall asleep every night. A wide range of white noise machines are available at different price points, while the higher-end models come with various high-tech features.

Types of White Noise

There are various types of white noise that are used to drown out distracting environmental sounds. White noise is not only supposed to drown out distracting environmental noises but also be soothing enough to help the person fall asleep. A sound machine is like a small speaker that can be set on your bedside table to play soft, soothing sounds to help you fall asleep. A sound machine usually comes with various types of prerecorded sounds, such as the sound of crickets, rainfall, ocean waves, fan, or instrumental music like the piano.

You can choose the type of white noise according to your personal preference. Some people prefer the repetitive noise of the fan, while others prefer the soothing sound of rainfall. And there are those that prefer soft, soothing music instead of sounds.

A white noise machine also comes with headphones sometimes, for use when there are other people in the room that can be distracted by the sound machine. The volume after sound can be set according to preference.

There are numerous sound machines available today, from small portable ones to headphones to larger devices that are not very portable. Given all the different options, it can be hard to choose one for your needs.

If you’re more comfortable with the sound of the fan, then you should choose white noise machines that specialize in fan sounds. If you prefer nature sounds, then there are sound machines specializing in those. Volume adjustment and portability are also factors that go into determining the right sound machine. White noise devices usually come with a timer that automatically stops the sound after a certain time. This ensures the device doesn’t continue to play after you have fallen asleep.

However, keep in mind that sound machines are great at drowning out all noises, including the ones that you should hear (crying child, fire alarm, doorbell, morning alarm, etc.). Therefore, even when you use a sound machine to drown out distracting noises, make sure it doesn’t make you oblivious to your surroundings.

Is White Noise Harmful?

No long term study has been made on the effects of white noise, but the benefits certainly outweigh the downsides. In one study, it was found that playing white noise in intensive care units helped drown out the disturbing and distracting noises and reduce episodes of wakefulness in patients.

But it must also be noted that white noise is noise after all, and should be used in moderation.

Whether you are listening to the white noise via speakers or headphones, remember to keep the volume at a comfortable level to prevent hurting your ears. It is also important to try other methods of drowning out environmental noises because white noise machines can be habit-forming.

When it comes to babies or children, sound machines can be harmful if the noise level is above

85 decibels. In children, a sound machine can turn into a habit if it is used every time to help them fall asleep. When a child falls asleep to a sound machine every night, it can be hard for them to sleep without it.

White Noise Machine Reviews

Because the sound machine market is flooded with a variety of products, it can often be hard to know what to choose. Should you choose the basic devices or the high-end ones with the latest features? Even the most basic sound machines are capable of performing the function of noise isolation and cancellation, providing the user with quality sleep. But if you want a bevy of features, you will have to go higher in the price range.

To make a choice easier for customers, we have compiled a list of the top-rated sound machines in the market right now. They range from basic to high-end and suit both adults, children, and babies.

Sound + Sleep

This is one of the most popular sound machines in the market today, not only because of its budget pricing but also because of the various features it comes loaded with. Besides being a high-fidelity sound machine that helps you sleep well at night, this devices comes with the option to record your own sounds. You also have the option to choose from white, pink, and brown noise, with a large selection of natural and ambient sounds as well. You can choose up to 30 sounds in this device.

One of the biggest problems for people is to turn off the machine when they fall asleep. The Sound + Sleep machine solves that problem by including a noise-reduction timer, which can be set to 30-, 60-, 90-, and 120-minute increments. This gradually lowers the volume while enhancing the noise blocking experience. Even if you fall asleep and don’t remember to turn off the sound, the machine will automatically lower the volume. The device also comes with a headphone jack.

The Sound + Sleep white noise machine is small and compact, at only five inches long and less than two pounds in weight. Besides the portability, the machine also comes with a one-year warranty. The Sound + Sleep machine retails for $62 online.

Pros

Great for those who like to sleep to white, pink, or brown noise
Includes nature sounds as well as ambient sounds (such as the fan)
Includes headphone jack
The gradual lowering of volume
One year warranty

Cons

Slightly steep price

Shop Sound + Sleep

Big Red Rooster

Most people do not want to spend a ton of money on a white noise machine. But a lot of white noise machines come for at least $40, which can be expensive for a lot of people. However, the Big Red Rooster is available for $20, which is half the price of most quality sound machines. Despite the low price, this device offers the same quality as many higher-priced models. The features include a white noise option, and five natural sounds, including summer night, brook, rain, thunder, and ocean. There’s also an option for a sleep timer for up to one hour with 15-minute increments. This white noise machine is small and compact and weighs less than 10 ounces.

Pros

Basic machine for those who want only white noise
Great for those who love natural sounds
Ideal size for traveling with

Cons

No high-end features

Shop the Big Red Rooster

Marpac Dohm

This is one of the oldest sound machines in the market, first introduced in the market as ‘Sleep-Mate’ in 1960. If you’re looking for a fan-based white noise machine, this one is for you. Not only is this machine simple and basic, but also affordable. It doesn’t have a timer so you can run it all night long. You can adjust the volume and tone settings.

The Dohm also has a child version called Dohm for Baby, which is much similar to the Dohm Classic. The devices come with a 101-night sleep trial and a one-year warranty, as well as free shipping within the U.S.

Pros

Good for those who use white noise
Great for those who run the machine all night
Value-based device

Cons

Very basic device
No advanced features
Slightly expensive

Shop the Marpac Dohm

Sound Oasis S-5000

If you’re willing to spend more than a $100 on a sound machine, then the S-5000 Sound Oasis is your pick. Along with a steep price tag, the device also comes with a wide range of sound selections. There are a total of 145 different sounds that you can mix with 24 sound profiles to create your own customized sounds. The two speakers provide excellent sound quality, and also includes a headphone jack.

Other features of this high-end sound machine are an adjustable alarm clock, sleep timer, nap timer, and international AM/FM radio and dual voltage adapter. The machine is priced at $200 and has a one-year warranty.

Pros

Great for those who want an extensive sound library
God for international travelers
Includes a wide array of features

Cons

Steep price

Shop Sound Oasis

Hatch Baby Rest

Babies and toddlers wake up very easily at even the slightest noise. They also take a long time to fall asleep unless they are soothed. This is why a white noise machine is helpful in making babies and toddlers fall asleep faster and more easily. If you’re looking for a white noise machine for your child, the Rest from Hatch Baby is a complete white noise solution designed for babies and toddlers. It combines light and sound therapy and is accessible via a smartphone app. With the combination of light images and sounds, the device creates a soothing environment for the child.

The device is useful for children of various ages. While the white noise is ideal for soothing the child, the nightlight helps toddlers fall to sleep easily, and the ‘time-to-rise’ alarm is perfect for school-going kids. This product retails online and comes with a one-year warranty.

Pros

An ideal device for parents with babies, infants or toddlers
Helps soothe children who cannot sleep in the dark
Smartphone accessible device doesn’t require parents to go into the child’s room to turn off the device
Combination of light and sound

Cons

Collects a ton of private information
No battery option

Shop Hatch Baby Rest

Best Earplugs for Sleeping – 2019 Review and Buying Guide

11/23/202303/28/2019 by Ben Trapskin

Do you often have difficulty sleeping difficulty sleeping at night because of different kind of noises? Well, the solution to your problem is earplugs. They are a simple, affordable way to block disturbances like the noise that disrupts sleep. Such disturbances may include traffic noise, snoring bed partners, noisy airplanes, or your neighbors playing music loudly. To maximize noise reduction, earplugs are designed to compress into smaller shapes and re-expand when you fit them into your ear canal. They are available in a wide range of shapes designed to accommodate users who have varying ear canal dimensions and preferences.

Foam vs. Silicon Earplugs

The two most common materials used for earplugs are foam and silicon. Here is a look at the differences between the two to help you choose the right one for you.

Foam Earplugs

Most foam earplugs available in the market today are made of memory foam. You insert them into your ear using the roll method, which involves twisting them so that the plug is compressed into a tube and inserting them into your ear and holding them in place until they expand fully. Soft foam earplugs have their own pros and cons. It is a good idea to know what these are to decide if they are the right choice for you.

Pros:

Blocks sound effectively – high noise reduction rating (NRR), often above 30 decibels
Is an innovative new technology and does not have a negative effect on your skin
Comes in different sizes based on individual ear canals
Easy to use and does not drop out
Inexpensive when compared to silicon earplugs

Cons:

May itch if used for an extended period
May cause a feeling of pressure inside the ear if used for long periods
Silicon Earplugs

Also known as moldable earplugs, silicon earplugs have been available on the market for decades. In fact, they were the first ones to be introduced into the market. Today, you will find soft silicon earplugs which work amazingly well to reduce noise while you sleep. You will usually find individual pieces that are packaged in a protective plastic case. All you have to do to use them is to shape the plug into a ball and push it in to fill the outer area of the ear canal. Apart from blocking out noises that disrupt your sleep, soft silicone earplugs are also commonly used by swimmers to prevent water from entering their ears.

Pros:

Softer than foam earplugs
Antibacterial
Does not enter the ear canals so does not cause pain or harm on the inside
Rarely causes itchiness
Moldable according to a user’s needs
Reusable up to 3 times

Cons:

Lower NRR than foam earplugs – typically lower than 30 decibels
Can be difficult to fit into the ear
Tends to drop out at times
More expensive when compared to foam earplugs

5 Best Ear Plugs for Sleep

Here is a look at 5 of the best earplugs for sleeping.

Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs

Molded with low-pressure, skinned and tapered foam to give you amazing comfort and enhanced hygiene, Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs have a very high NRR of 32 decibels. They offer high-performance hearing protection that allows you to use them in environments with any annoying noise to hazardous levels of noise. These earplugs are great for use during sleep, handling power tools, loud concerts, shooting sports, motorsports, among others.

Radians CEP001-R Custom Molded Earplugs

Made of non-toxic, hypoallergenic silicone, the Radians CEP001-R Custom Molded Earplugs are high-quality and super-safe earplugs that are effective in keeping noise from disrupting your sleep. You get soft, permanent custom fit to give you comfort no matter how long use them for. They are easy to use, washable and very affordable – definitely a great choice.

Howard Leight Uncorded Foam Earplugs

With an NRR of 33, these foam earplugs give you the highest noise reduction rating of any disposal earplugs you will find in today’s market. Howard Leight Uncorded Foam Earplugs come in a bell shape to match the contours of your inner ear, which ensures maximum noise reduction and hearing protection. These earplugs also provide long-wearing comfort and promote proper hygiene.

Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs

The original earplugs invented by Ray and Cecilia Benner in 1962 are still considered one of the best earplugs for sleeping to this day. Made of pure silicon putty, these earplugs are waterproof and resistant to melting under heat. Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs provide non-toxic, hypoallergenic, safe and waterproof protection from loud noises. They reduce noise by 22 decibels, making them perfect for sleeping.

Mighty Plugs Wax Earplugs

When it comes to noise reduction earplugs, nothing quite comes close to the Mighty Plugs Wax earplugs. They provide superb ear protection and are soft and moldable. Made with the purest natural beeswax, they seal the ear canal as soon as you insert them. Hypoallergenic and safe, Mighty Plugs Wax Earplugs are the ideal choice when you are looking for the best sound blocking earplugs. They may not be as comfortable as soft silicon earplugs, but they are definitely effective blocking out sound and ensuring that you get undisturbed sleep all through the night.

Millions of people all over the world have trouble sleeping due to noise from a wide range of sources. This problem can wreak havoc on your performance at work and at home as well as on your health. So what do you do to block out noises that disrupt your sleep? Get earplugs of course! As you can see, there are many excellent earplugs for sleeping available on the market. You can choose from earplugs made of wax, foam, and silicon-based on what you find most comfortable and which one suits you best. The best earplugs for sleeping are affordable, easy to use and safe on your skin. No matter which one you choose, you can be sure that getting a good night’s sleep will never be a problem.