If you can’t sleep at night, you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one-third of Americans aren’t getting enough sleep. Whether that’s because of the neighbor’s dog barking, a snoring partner, or an overactive mind, too much noise can make getting a good night’s sleep nearly impossible. But fortunately, that’s where sleep machines come in.

What Are Sleep Machines?

Sleep machines—a.k.a. white noise machines or sound machines—are convenient little gadgets that help quiet external noises so you can fall asleep more easily. They create a constant yet super low-key sound background that drowns out any external noises interrupting your sleep. Depending on which model you pick, you can listen to pretty much any sound you like, from sounds of nature to calming melodies. For reference, here are our top picks:

• Hatch Rest 2nd Gen All-in-one Sleep Machine
• 5-in-1 Baby Dream Machine
• Yogasleep Light-to-Rise Sound Machine
• Dohm Nova Sound Machine & Night Light
• Cool Mist Humidifier with Sound Machine
• Firefly Sound Machine
• SlumberBreeze 2-in-1 Personal Fan With White Noise

The Benefits of Using Sleep Machines

Beyond promoting mind and body relaxation, sleep machines have many other benefits.

They Improve Sleep Quality

By blocking out background noises, sleep machines help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer for maximum sleep quality.

They Keep Stress and Anxiety at Bay

Many people find the gentle, repetitive sounds soothing, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to unwind at the end of the day.

They Boost Your Ability to Focus

Sleep machines aren’t just for going to sleep. You can use them to reduce distractions during the day while you study or work at home.

They Help Babies Sleep Better

A sleep machine can be a serious lifesaver if you’re a parent. The steady, soothing noise can quiet fussy babies so they can fall asleep more easily.

What to Look for in a Sleep Machine

Buying a sleep machine is a great investment for your sleep health. But with so many options available, how do you know which one to pick? Here are three features to look for when buying a sleep machine:

Sound Options

The best machines have a variety of sound setting options, from chirping birds to soft music. Thus, you can customize the type of sound you hear depending on your mood.

Volume Control

Adjustable volume settings are essential in a sleep machine. Sounds that are too quiet or too loud can be just as, if not more, distracting to your sleep.

Timer Features

A timer lets you conveniently set the machine to turn off after a certain amount of time. This is great if you don’t want it waste too much energy running all night.

Can’t Sleep? Try These Sleep Machines That Lull You To Dreamland

Sleep machines can be a real game-changer if you struggle to sleep at night. Not only do they make a world of difference in how well you sleep, they’re super easy to use, too.

For a list of the best sleep machines on the market today, here are seven models to try for better rest:

Our editors love finding you the best products and offers! If you purchase something by clicking on one of the affiliate links on our website, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.