Many new mothers believe their newborns need complete silence to sleep peacefully. They tiptoe around the house, avoid sudden movements, and even suppress sneezes to keep their baby from waking. However, sleep experts say that silence may not be the secret to better baby sleep. In an exclusive interview with Nadormagazine, pediatric sleep specialist Dr. Lamyaa Fallah discusses whether babies truly need silence, the role of white noise, and how real-world sounds may actually help your baby sleep better.
Is the Womb Really Silent?
Contrary to popular belief, the womb is not a quiet place. In fact, it’s filled with the constant sound of blood rushing through the mother’s arteries and veins — a rhythmic hum that babies find soothing. This sound, similar to white noise, helps the fetus feel safe and relaxed, allowing them to sleep for long stretches.
After birth, babies lose this familiar sound environment, which may explain why they struggle with sleep in a quiet room. Inspired by this natural white noise, scientists developed a device called the Baby Shusher, designed to replicate the sound of blood flow to help babies fall asleep more easily.
Creating a Womb-Like Environment at Home
To mimic the comfort of the womb:
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Use a white noise machine or app that produces steady, gentle sounds like rainfall, a fan, or heartbeat rhythms.
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Place your baby in a calm but not silent room — avoid over-soundproofed spaces.
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Allow natural background sounds like the rustling of leaves, distant traffic, or birds chirping to remain.
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Soft background music, lullabies, or recitations of the Qur’an in a soothing, low tone can help set a peaceful atmosphere.
⚠️ Note: White noise machines or womb-simulation devices should not be used beyond six months of age, as overreliance may impact the child’s ability to adapt to their environment and interact socially.
Does Going Out Help Babies Sleep Better?
According to studies, babies who are taken outdoors daily tend to sleep better than those who remain indoors. The motion of a car, gentle outdoor noise, or even being in a stroller helps soothe them to sleep. In contrast, babies kept in quiet, enclosed spaces may become more restless and irritable over time.
So don’t be afraid to take your baby out — even a short daily walk can improve their mood and sleep quality.
White Noise vs. Household Noise
White noise can:
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Mask loud household sounds (such as older siblings playing or TV noise).
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Help babies fall asleep faster and sleep longer.
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Reduce stress and overstimulation.
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Soothe fussy or colicky babies, especially during evening crying spells.
It essentially acts as a protective cocoon that filters disruptive noise, offering babies a consistent and calming audio environment.
Other Helpful Sleep Tips for Infants
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Lighting: Keep the baby’s room dim — soft lighting encourages the production of melatonin and prevents overstimulation. But avoid complete darkness, as this can create feelings of fear or insecurity.
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Familiar sounds: Let your baby get used to gentle household noises like dishes clinking, the hum of conversation, or the quiet buzz of a TV.
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Social comfort: Babies feel safer when they’re around familiar voices and faces. Often, they sleep better in the same room where siblings play or where family members gather, as long as the noise isn't excessive.
Final Thought: Emotional Security Comes First
While providing a peaceful sleep environment is important, emotional comfort and security matter more. Babies are more likely to sleep soundly when they feel safe and surrounded by loved ones — not just in complete silence.
So don’t stress too much about keeping everything quiet. Your baby may sleep better with real-life sounds, gentle noise, and your comforting presence nearby.
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