Sleep Sound Machine Options

Sleeping with white noise or other soothing sounds not only helps drown out any other sounds that might otherwise interrupt sleep, but can also be beneficial to people suffering from ringing in their ears or for people who find it easier to sleep when not in silence.

Plenty of great sleep sound machines are available, ranging from inexpensive models that offer a few selections to quite sophisticated versions that provide crisp sound and a variety of sound options and ranges. Click the Buy Now button on any of the following slides for purchase information.

The Ecotones Sound + Sleep Machine Model ASM1002 is a top of the line sleep machine that receives overwhelmingly positive reviews on Amazon. Some of the features include:

• A large selection of sound options
• Customizable controls
• A timer to allow the user to schedule sounds

One of the most impressive features of this machine is the adaptable sound technology which monitors the noise levels near the sleeper and adjusts the volume accordingly. Available for around $120, this machine is a little pricier than most but offers some of the best features available.

Sound Oasis offers this Sound Therapy System featuring a sleek design and the option to either plug the system into the wall with an adapter or instead run it from battery power. Other features of this machine include:

• Six nature sounds from which to choose
• A timer of varying lengths
• Optional sound card can be purchased to add more sounds

Amazon shoppers praise this machine for its portability, particularly for users who travel frequently. The price of this machine is around $45.

A great option for those who want a reliable sound machine without the hefty price tag, the Homedics SS-2000G/F-AMZ Sound Spa Relaxation Machine provides a compact unit that is appropriate for travel but durable enough to be used at home every night.

Some features of this machine include:

• Six different sound options
• Auto timer
• Machine can run throughout the entire night
• Option to power the unit with either batteries or with an adapter

At around $20, this machine is a good deal for people who don't necessarily want all the bells and whistles of a more costly unit. Amazon customers give this product four out of five stars and say this unit is very helpful for a good night's sleep.

This unit is made specifically with traveling in mind. Light and compact, the Marpac Travel Sound Machine is designed to fit easily into a travel bag and comes with a traveling pouch.

More features of the Travel Sound Conditioner include:

• White noise akin to the soothing sounds of nature
• Continuous sound
• Includes plug adaptors for international travel

Priced at around $65, Amazon customers say this is an ideal unit for frequent travelers.

The Homedics SS-5020 Sound Spa Premier provides FM radio as an additional option on this machine. The Sound Spa Premier is a good option for those who sometimes want to listen to their favorite radio station and sometimes want to listen to white noise or nature sounds.

Other features of this machine include:

• 20 sounds from which to choose
• Non-traditional sounds including foghorns and steam trains
• Extra large display
• Can serve as an alarm clock

Priced around $50, this sleep machine is definitely a multi-tasking options. Amazon reviews like that the machine features a clock with a dimming function and also enjoy the alarm clock functions.

Ideal for little sleepers, the Munchkin Nursery Projector and Sound System offers both soothing noises and images projected on the ceiling to give baby something to look at while falling asleep.

Additional features include:

• Can be set to run when baby cries
• Choose from classical music or nature sounds
• Three image themes from which to choose
• Volume control

Amazon customers describe this machine as durable and say they noticed an improvement in the child's sleeping after using the Munchkin system. This unit sells for around $25.

Do sound machines actually work when it comes to getting a better night's sleep? While the efficacy of sleep machines depend on the preferences of each user, The Sleep Foundation says that any type of noise that can help drown out interrupting noises can be beneficial.

Choose a sleep machine with features that appeal to you, keeping in mind that not everyone finds every standard sleep machine sound soothing. Experiment with your machine to find the settings and features that help you get the best sleep possible.