Pink noise for baby sleep
Pink noise has become a favourite with parents who want something softer than classic white noise. It sounds like steady rain or wind through trees: balanced, gentle and less hissy. Chill Machine's Pink Noise for Baby Sleep (1 Hour) is one of the most-played releases in our catalogue, and this page explains how to use it well.
Safety first: keep the speaker well away from the cot (ideally across the room), use the lowest volume that works (quieter than normal conversation), and never put a device inside the cot or pram. Noise is not a substitute for safer sleep advice. See the Lullaby Trust and speak to your health visitor with any concerns.
Pink Noise for Baby Sleep (1 Hour)
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Why pink rather than white?
White noise has equal energy at every frequency, which our ears hear as bright and sharp. Pink noise turns down the higher frequencies a little (about 3 decibels per octave), so it sounds rounder and more natural. Many parents feel it is more pleasant to share a room with all evening, and still good at softening household sounds such as voices downstairs, the TV or traffic.
Using pink noise safely
- Check the level at the cot. Stand where your baby's head will be. You should be able to talk quietly over the sound. If in doubt, turn it down.
- Distance and direction. Place the speaker across the room and point it away from the cot.
- Use the timer. The one-hour track ends naturally, which suits a wind-down routine. The browser player above also fades out on a timer.
- Keep devices out of reach, including cables.
Building a routine
Babies often respond to consistency. The same sequence each night, such as a bath, feed, dim lights, then pink noise, can become a familiar signal for sleep. Keep the noise for sleep times so it stays meaningful.
Common questions
How long should it play? Many families use a single one-hour track during settling, then let it end. If you prefer continuous sound, keep it especially quiet. Will my baby become dependent on it? Some babies get used to a sleep sound, just as they get used to a routine. If you want to phase it out later, lowering the volume gradually over a week or two is a gentle approach.
Other gentle options
If pink noise isn't right, some families prefer hairdryer sounds, womb sounds, or the deeper rumble of brown noise. For something warmer for yourself, try Warm Pink Noise (One Hour):
Warm Pink Noise (One Hour)
Every baby is different. If you're worried about your baby's sleep, talk to your health visitor or GP. Read our full safe listening guidance.