In today's busy world, many people rely on white noise to focus, work, or even relax. For parents, white noise is often recommended as a tool to help babies fall asleep. However, recent studies suggest that there are some things to be cautious about when it comes to white noise and its use with small children.The Sound Debate: White Noise for BabiesWhite noise machines are often used to calm babies and help them sleep more peacefully. But a 2024 study published in Sleep Medicine raises concerns about the potential risks associated with these devices. Experts suggest that we need to limit both the maximum sound levels and the duration of white noise exposure to protect children's hearing.While white noise can be soothing, there is growing awareness of the need to ensure that it's used safely. Experts stress that the sound level should be carefully monitored to avoid any harm to a child's developing auditory system.Safe Sound Levels for BabiesFor adults, sound levels up to 85 decibels are generally considered safe, but even then, exposure for longer than 8 hours can lead to hearing issues. For babies and toddlers, this safety threshold is much lower. Experts recommend that white noise for babies should not exceed 50 decibels, which is about the same level as a quiet conversation.A baby’s brain and hearing are still developing, and prolonged exposure to loud or constant noise can have negative effects. The risks aren’t just limited to hearing loss — they can also impact speech development, since hearing and speaking skills are closely connected.Potential Risks of Prolonged ExposureOne of the lesser-known risks associated with prolonged white noise exposure is the possibility of auditory processing disorders. If a baby is exposed to white noise for extended periods, their brain may start ignoring the sound entirely. This can lead to partial hearing loss, as the brain no longer recognizes or responds to certain frequencies of sound.Long-term use of white noise machines has also been linked to developmental and learning problems in some children. There’s even a risk of noise-induced hearing loss if the machine is left on for too long without supervision.Guidelines for Safe Use of White Noise MachinesTo avoid potential risks, there are a few simple guidelines parents can follow when using white noise machines for their babies:Keep the volume low: Ensure the machine is set below 50 decibels. You can use a smartphone app to measure the sound levels.Limit duration: The machine shouldn’t run for more than 1 hour at a time. Once the baby is asleep, it’s best to turn it off.Maintain distance: Keep the white noise machine at least 7 feet (200 cm) away from the baby’s crib or bed.Use sparingly: White noise should not become a regular part of the baby’s sleep routine. It’s best used only when the baby is having trouble falling asleep.