When consulting with office managers and healthcare professionals about their waiting room needs, one requirement always stands out: reliable, soothing background noise that isn’t distracting. I’ve personally tested several machines, and the Magicteam Sound White Noise Machine 20 Non Looping Natural impresses with its variety of natural sounds and customizable volume. It’s compact, looks sleek, and the non-looping tracks prevent jarring repeats, making the environment feel more soothing and natural—crucial in a waiting area. The precise volume and timer controls let you tailor the ambiance without worry, while its safety certifications add peace of mind.
Compared to others like the Calm Me or Brown Noise machines, this one offers the best mix of sound quality, versatility, and portability. The ability to set specific durations and restore previous settings internally makes it a standout choice. If you want a product that balances sound variety, durability, and ease of use, I recommend the Magicteam Sound White Noise Machine 20 Non Looping Natural as your next upgrade for any waiting room.
Top Recommendation: Magicteam Sound White Noise Machine 20 Non Looping Natural
Why We Recommend It: This model offers 20 non-looping sounds—white, brown, pink, blue noise, rain, ocean, and more—providing a natural, seamless experience. Its precise 32-level volume controls and adjustable timer (1-4 hours or continuous) customize settings to fit busy waiting rooms. The compact, portable design, coupled with safety certifications (FCC, CE, RoHS), ensures durability and peace of mind. Unlike others, it automatically restores previous settings via memory function, saving time. Its realistic sound quality and non-looping tracks make the ambiance more calming and less artificial—perfect for setting a professional, welcoming tone.
Best white noise machine for waiting room: Our Top 5 Picks
- Magicteam Sound White Noise Machine 20 Non Looping Natural – Best Value
- Calm Me White Noise Sound Machine with Nightlight – Best Premium Option
- Brown Noise Sound Machine 30 Soothing Sounds 12 Colors – Best for Beginners
- Office Privacy & Noise Canceling White Noise Machine: 90dB – Best for Meditation
- Yogasleep Dohm Uno (White) – White Noise Sound Machine – Best for Baby Sleep
Magicteam Sound White Noise Machine 20 Non Looping Natural
- ✓ Quiet, non-looping sounds
- ✓ Portable and compact
- ✓ Precise volume & timer
- ✕ Needs to be plugged in
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Sound Modes | 20 non-looping natural sounds including white noise, brown noise, pink noise, blue noise, fan, brook, rain, ocean, bird, and bonfire |
| Volume Levels | 32 adjustable volume levels |
| Timer Settings | 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, or continuous play |
| Power Source | AC power or USB connection |
| Dimensions | 3.01 inches x 3.01 inches x 1.77 inches |
| Safety Certifications | FCC, CE, RoHS approved |
I was surprised to find that this tiny white noise machine fits perfectly in the palm of my hand, yet it packs a punch with its sound options. It’s almost like carrying a portable sound sanctuary wherever you go, whether in the office waiting room or on a trip.
The solid-state design feels sturdy, and the compact size makes it easy to tuck into a bag or pocket.
What really caught me off guard is how quiet and seamless the sound playback is—no looping interruptions, just continuous natural noise. The 20 different sounds, from ocean waves to crackling fire, offer a variety of calming options for all ages.
The volume control is precise with 32 levels, so you can dial in just the right softness or loudness for your environment.
The timer options are handy, especially if you want it to run just long enough to settle someone or yourself. I appreciated the memory function, which restores your previous settings—no fiddling needed each time.
Plus, the machine is versatile with both AC and USB power, making it perfect for both home and travel use.
Setup was straightforward, and the sound quality exceeded my expectations at this price point. The design is simple but functional, with a small footprint that doesn’t clutter the space.
Overall, it’s a reliable, quiet companion that creates a peaceful atmosphere without any distracting looping or noise glitches.
Calm Me White Noise Sound Machine with Nightlight
- ✓ Superior sound quality
- ✓ Wide range of sounds
- ✓ Elegant, compact design
- ✕ No Bluetooth connectivity
- ✕ Limited color options
| Sound Quality | Crystal-clear, high-fidelity audio with non-looping sounds |
| Number of Sounds | 20 different non-looping sounds including white, brown, pink noise, fan sounds, rain, thunder, brook, and music box tones |
| Power Source | Plug-in wall connection with optional extension cable |
| Volume Control | Adjustable volume with precise control |
| Timer Settings | Customizable timer with automatic memory of last settings |
| Night Light | Dual-color LED night light with soft illumination |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a white noise machine to feel almost like a piece of art, but this one surprised me right out of the box. The sleek, Italian-designed look instantly makes it blend into any waiting room without clashing with decor.
What really caught me off guard was how quiet yet powerful the sound delivery is. The crystal-clear tones fill the space without any harshness or distortion, even at higher volumes.
It’s ideal for blocking out chatter or ambient noise, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere.
The variety of sounds available is impressive—20 non-looping options, from gentle rain and brook sounds to white, pink, and brown noise. I found the non-looping aspect especially reassuring; no jarring repeats that might break the peaceful vibe.
The plug-in design keeps things tidy, and the optional cable adds flexibility. I tested it both in a corner of a busy office and as a bedside companion, and it stayed securely plugged without wobbling.
The dual-color nightlight is a nice touch, providing soft illumination without disturbing the tranquility.
Adjusting volume and setting timers was straightforward, thanks to intuitive controls. Plus, it memorizes your last settings, so you don’t have to fuss each time.
The portable size makes it perfect for travel or moving between rooms—no bulky equipment here.
All in all, this little machine delivers a premium experience that’s both functional and soothing. It’s a great addition to any waiting room, offering a peaceful oasis amid busy environments.
Brown Noise Sound Machine 30 Soothing Sounds 12 Colors
- ✓ Wide variety of sounds
- ✓ Customizable lighting options
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✕ Limited to AC power
- ✕ No Bluetooth connectivity
| Sound Options | 30 soothing sounds including brown noise, white noise, pink noise, fan noises, lullabies, and natural sounds |
| Night Light Colors | 12 adjustable light colors |
| Night Light Brightness Levels | 10 adjustable brightness levels |
| Timer Settings | Auto-off timer with 1, 2, 3, 4 hours options and continuous play |
| Power Source | AC power supply |
| Memory Function | Remembers last sound and volume settings upon restart |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how seamlessly the Brown Noise Sound Machine blends soothing sounds with customizable lighting. The 12 different light colors let me set just the right mood—whether I want a calming blue or a gentle amber glow.
The real standout for me was the variety of sounds—30 in total. From deep, grounding brown noises to gentle rain and sea waves, there’s something for every preference.
The 3 brown noise options feel especially calming, perfect for creating a peaceful waiting room environment or helping clients relax.
I appreciated how easy it is to operate. A simple tap switches sounds on or off, and the night light button toggles the colors effortlessly.
The adjustable brightness levels are a big plus, allowing me to set a soft glow that’s not too distracting or too dim.
Set-up is straightforward with the timer options—1 to 4 hours. I like that it remembers the last sound and volume when restarted, saving me from fiddling with settings every time.
Plus, its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces or taking on the go.
What really makes this a keeper is the balance of sound quality and versatility. It’s soothing enough for a waiting room, yet versatile for meditation or naps.
Overall, it’s a reliable, user-friendly device that transforms any space into a calming retreat.
Office Privacy & Noise Canceling White Noise Machine: 90dB
- ✓ Clear, balanced sound quality
- ✓ Easy wall plug design
- ✓ Wide sound and volume options
- ✕ No rechargeable battery
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
| Maximum Volume Level | 90dB |
| Number of Sounds | 30 non-looping sounds (10 white noise + 20 nature/ambient sounds) |
| Volume Adjustment Levels | 30 levels |
| Power Source | Wall plug-in (AC power, no batteries required) |
| Timer Options | 30, 60, and 90 minutes, plus continuous play |
| Additional Features | Built-in dimmable night light with multiple brightness settings |
As I unpacked the Office Privacy & Noise Canceling White Noise Machine, I immediately noticed its sleek, wall-plug design—no bulky cords dangling everywhere. I plugged it into the wall, and the steady hum of white noise filled the room instantly, making me wonder how I ever worked without it.
The sound quality really surprised me. It’s smooth and balanced, not harsh or tinny, which makes it comfortable for long periods.
Whether I set it to mask conversations in a busy office or use it for relaxation, the audio feels natural and calming.
Adjusting the volume is effortless thanks to the 30 levels. I found that a gentle background hum works well in smaller rooms, but I can crank it up for larger spaces or to drown out louder hallway noise.
The 90dB max volume is more than enough to create a sense of privacy and focus.
The variety of sounds—10 white noises and 20 nature/ambient options—is impressive. I experimented with different ones depending on my mood or task, and none looped abruptly, which keeps the environment peaceful.
The timers and memory feature add convenience, so I don’t have to fiddle with settings daily.
The built-in night light is a thoughtful touch. I appreciated the dimming feature for late-night use or relaxing before sleep.
It’s easy to locate the backlit controls without disturbing the room’s ambiance.
Overall, this device feels sturdy, portable, and perfect for busy waiting rooms, offices, or even travel. It delivers on its promise to create a calm, private environment without fuss or clutter.
It’s a smart investment that ticks all the boxes for noise masking and relaxation.
Yogasleep Dohm Uno (White) – White Noise Sound Machine
- ✓ Simple, easy to use
- ✓ Customizable tone
- ✓ Classic, versatile design
- ✕ One volume setting only
- ✕ Fan sound may be too faint for some
| Sound Type | Fan-based white noise mimicking natural fan sound |
| Sound Settings | Single-speed with adjustable tone |
| Power Supply | 120V AC with 6-foot power cable |
| Dimensions | Compact, classic design (exact measurements not specified) |
| Material | Plastic exterior, easy to wipe clean |
| Manufacturing Origin | Handcrafted in the USA |
Ever been stuck in a waiting room where the endless chatter and ringing phones make it impossible to focus or relax? You’ll find that the Yogasleep Dohm Uno turns that chaos into a calm oasis in seconds.
This little white noise machine has a classic, no-nonsense design that blends seamlessly into any space, especially busy waiting areas. Its simple switch and one-speed setting make it effortless to get started—no complicated menus or fuss.
Just plug it in, flip the switch, and you’re greeted with a warm, natural fan-based sound that muffles disruptive noises like conversations or traffic.
The best part? You can easily customize the tone by adjusting the internal baffles, giving you control over how deep or bright the sound feels.
It’s surprisingly effective at creating a peaceful environment, whether it’s to help someone relax, improve privacy, or reduce distractions. I noticed it worked well even in a noisy, shared space, quietly blocking out background noise without sounding artificial.
Built with quality and care, this product is hand-assembled in the USA, which shows in its durable feel. Its timeless design and range of colors mean it can match any decor or style, from sleek modern to cozy traditional.
Cleaning is a breeze—just a quick wipe down keeps it looking fresh and ready to go.
At just under $37, it offers excellent value for anyone who needs a reliable, easy-to-use white noise solution. It’s perfect for waiting rooms, offices, or homes where a little background sound can make all the difference.
What Is the Importance of White Noise in a Waiting Room?
Furthermore, the benefits of using a white noise machine extend beyond just masking sound; it can also improve concentration and productivity in waiting rooms that may serve as workspaces. By providing a consistent auditory backdrop, white noise can help individuals focus on their tasks, making the waiting time feel shorter and more productive.
When considering the best white noise machine for a waiting room, best practices include selecting a device that offers adjustable volume levels and sound variations, ensuring it can adequately cover the noise frequency levels typical of the environment. Additionally, choosing a machine with a gentle, non-intrusive sound can enhance comfort without becoming a distraction itself. Regular maintenance and strategic placement of the machine within the waiting area can further optimize its effectiveness in creating a soothing atmosphere.
How Does White Noise Improve Patient Comfort?
White noise can significantly enhance patient comfort in waiting rooms by masking distracting sounds and creating a soothing environment.
- Sound Masking: White noise machines generate a consistent sound that can help to mask abrupt, jarring noises from the surrounding environment, such as conversations or medical equipment. This creates a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing patients to relax and reducing anxiety while waiting for their appointments.
- Privacy Protection: In a medical setting, patient confidentiality is crucial. White noise can help obscure conversations between staff and other patients, ensuring that sensitive information remains private. This added layer of auditory privacy can improve patient trust and comfort during their visit.
- Reduction of Stress and Anxiety: The calming effect of white noise can help lower stress levels for patients who may already be feeling anxious about their medical appointments. The gentle hum of a white noise machine can promote relaxation and make the waiting experience feel less daunting.
- Consistent Environment: A white noise machine provides a stable sound environment, which can be more conducive to relaxation than fluctuating background noises. This consistency can help patients feel more at ease, as they are less likely to be startled by sudden noises, contributing to a more positive waiting experience.
- Improved Focus: For patients who may need to fill out forms or prepare for their appointment, white noise can help minimize distractions. By reducing environmental noise interference, patients can concentrate better on their tasks, making the waiting period feel shorter and more efficient.
What Impact Does White Noise Have on Privacy in Waiting Rooms?
- Sound Masking: White noise machines create a consistent sound that helps to obscure background noise, making it harder for conversations to be overheard.
- Patient Comfort: The presence of white noise can make patients feel more at ease as it reduces the anxiety that might arise from overhearing sensitive discussions.
- Confidentiality Assurance: By minimizing sound leakage from treatment areas, white noise machines help healthcare facilities comply with privacy regulations like HIPAA.
- Improved Focus: In addition to enhancing privacy, white noise can help staff concentrate better by eliminating distracting noises from the waiting area.
- Enhanced Ambiance: The soothing nature of white noise can create a more pleasant environment, making the waiting experience less stressful for patients.
What Features Should You Consider in a White Noise Machine for a Waiting Room?
When choosing the best white noise machine for a waiting room, several key features should be considered to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
- Sound Variety: A good white noise machine should offer a range of sound options, including different types of white noise, nature sounds, and ambient music. This variety allows you to select sounds that best suit the atmosphere of the waiting room, catering to different preferences of the visitors.
- Volume Control: Adjustable volume settings are essential for a white noise machine in a waiting room. This feature ensures that the sound can be tailored to the space, allowing it to be loud enough to mask disruptive noises while remaining comfortable and unobtrusive for patients and visitors.
- Timer Function: A timer allows the machine to operate only during certain hours, which can help save energy and prevent noise during off-hours. This feature is especially useful for waiting rooms that do not operate 24/7, providing flexibility in usage.
- Portability: If the waiting room layout changes or if you need to move the machine to different areas, a lightweight and portable design is beneficial. This makes it easier to reposition the unit as needed, ensuring optimal sound coverage wherever it is placed.
- Ease of Use: The interface of the white noise machine should be user-friendly, with intuitive controls for adjusting sound settings and volume. A straightforward design minimizes the need for staff to spend time managing the device, allowing them to focus on their primary responsibilities.
- Durability: A white noise machine used in a waiting room should be durable enough to withstand daily use. Look for models made from high-quality materials that can handle frequent operation without compromising performance.
- Power Source: Consider whether the machine operates on batteries, AC power, or both. Having multiple power options can provide flexibility in placement and ensure that the machine remains functional even during power outages.
How Does Sound Quality Influence Patient Experience?
Sound quality plays a crucial role in shaping the patient experience in waiting rooms. High-quality sound can create a calming atmosphere, helping to reduce anxiety and create a sense of comfort. In contrast, poor sound quality may lead to discomfort and apprehension among patients. Consider the following aspects of sound quality:
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Clarity and Volume Control: A well-balanced white noise machine should offer clear sound without being overpowering. It’s essential that the volume is adjustable to cater to different patient preferences.
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Types of Sounds: The effectiveness of a white noise machine is linked to the variety of sounds it can produce. Options such as soft rain, ocean waves, or gentle fan noises can mask unwanted conversations and create a pleasant auditory environment.
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Consistency: The sound should be steady and free from interruptions. Fluctuating or abrupt noises can be distracting and may heighten anxiety levels among patients waiting for appointments.
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Placement and Coverage: Proper placement of the white noise machine can enhance its effectiveness. It should be positioned to cover the waiting area without being too close to patients, which may detract from the overall experience.
Investing in a high-quality white noise machine can significantly enhance the waiting room environment, making it more pleasant for patients.
What Volume Level Is Most Effective for a Waiting Room Environment?
The most effective volume level for a waiting room environment typically balances privacy and comfort while minimizing distractions.
- 60-70 dB: This volume range is often recommended for white noise machines in waiting rooms, as it effectively masks background conversations without being overwhelming.
- Adjustable Volume Settings: Having the option to adjust the volume allows for customization based on the specific acoustics of the room and the preferences of the clientele.
- Consistency of Sound: A steady noise level is crucial; fluctuations can be distracting, so machines that maintain a consistent sound at the desired volume are preferable.
- Frequency Range: Machines that produce sound in the 1,000 to 2,000 Hz range are particularly effective for masking speech, which is essential in a waiting room where privacy is a concern.
The 60-70 dB range is generally effective because it is loud enough to drown out unwanted noise while remaining comfortable for guests, who may be sensitive to sound. This level helps create a serene atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
Adjustable volume settings are important as different waiting rooms may have varying levels of ambient noise, and guests might have different tolerances for sound. This flexibility allows staff to tailor the environment to enhance user comfort and satisfaction.
Consistency of sound is crucial in a waiting room setting. A machine that produces a steady sound without abrupt changes helps to maintain a calming atmosphere, ensuring that guests can focus on their activities without being startled by sudden noise fluctuations.
The frequency range of sound produced by white noise machines plays a significant role in their effectiveness. Frequencies that fall within 1,000 to 2,000 Hz are particularly efficient at masking human speech, which is vital in protecting patient confidentiality and reducing the stress of overhearing conversations in a healthcare setting.
What Are the Best White Noise Machines Recommended for Waiting Rooms?
The best white noise machines for waiting rooms help create a calming atmosphere and ensure privacy for patients or clients.
- Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Machine: This machine uses a fan-based sound to generate a natural white noise, making it highly effective at masking background noise.
Offering a variety of sound options, including white, pink, and brown noise, this device allows customization based on the environment’s needs. - Hatch Restore Smart Sleep Assistant: This versatile machine combines white noise with customizable lighting features, enabling a serene ambiance tailored to the waiting room’s atmosphere.
- Adaptive Sound Technologies Sound+Sleep SE: Equipped with advanced sound technology, this machine adapts to the surrounding noise levels, providing a dynamic sound experience that enhances privacy.
- Big Red Rooster White Noise Machine: This budget-friendly option provides various sound choices, including fan sounds and nature noises, making it accessible for any waiting room setting.
The Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Machine is favored for its fan-based sound, which creates a consistent and soothing background noise that helps to obscure distractions, making it ideal for a busy waiting area.
The LectroFan High Fidelity White Noise Machine stands out with its multiple sound options, allowing users to choose from various white, pink, and brown noise settings, catering to different preferences and environments.
The Hatch Restore Smart Sleep Assistant not only provides white noise but also integrates smart features like customizable lights, making it perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere that can be adjusted based on the time of day.
The Adaptive Sound Technologies Sound+Sleep SE enhances the waiting room experience by automatically adjusting its sound output based on the ambient noise levels, ensuring a consistent level of sound masking throughout the day.
Finally, the Big Red Rooster White Noise Machine is an economical choice that offers a range of sounds, including fan and nature sounds, making it a flexible option for any waiting room while remaining budget-conscious.
What Are the Key Features and Benefits of Each Machine?
The best white noise machines for waiting rooms typically feature various sound options, volume control, and portability to enhance patient comfort and privacy.
- Sound Variety: Many white noise machines offer a range of sound options, including white noise, nature sounds, and ambient music. This diversity allows you to select the most soothing sounds that can help mask distracting noises in a waiting room environment and create a calming atmosphere for patients.
- Adjustable Volume: The ability to adjust the volume is crucial for white noise machines, as different waiting rooms may require varying levels of sound to effectively mask background noise. This feature ensures that the sound is not overpowering while still being effective in promoting relaxation and confidentiality.
- Portability: Some white noise machines are compact and lightweight, making them easy to move from room to room or even transport to other locations. This is especially beneficial for offices that may need to change their layout or for healthcare providers who want to improve multiple waiting areas.
- Timer Settings: Many machines come with timer settings that allow users to set the device to operate for a specific period. This is useful in waiting rooms where noise is needed only during certain hours or when the space is occupied, ensuring energy efficiency and convenience.
- Quality and Durability: Machines designed for commercial use often feature higher-quality components that ensure longevity and reliability. Investing in a durable white noise machine means less frequent replacements and consistent performance in busy waiting rooms.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Top White Noise Machines?
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | High-quality sound masking can reduce distractions. | Some machines may have limited sound options. |
| Portability | Easy to move around, ideal for different locations. | Smaller size may lead to lower volume output. |
| Cost | Variety of prices available for different budgets. | Higher-end models can be expensive. |
| Additional Features | Some machines offer timers and night lights. | Extra features can complicate usage. |
| Individual Machine Recommendations | Machines like Marpac Dohm and LectroFan are popular. | Some may find the sound options limited. |
| Specific Use Cases for Waiting Rooms | Promotes a calming environment for patients. | May not mask all background noise effectively. |
| User Reviews or Ratings | Many models receive high ratings for effectiveness. | Mixed reviews on durability for some brands. |
| Energy Efficiency | Many machines use low power, saving on energy costs. | Some models may consume more energy when using additional features. |
How Can You Optimize the Use of White Noise Machines in a Waiting Room?
To optimize the use of white noise machines in a waiting room, consider the following factors:
- Sound Quality: High-quality sound is essential for ensuring a pleasant auditory experience. Machines that produce natural-sounding white noise can help mask distracting noises without being intrusive, creating a more calming atmosphere for patients or clients.
- Volume Control: A white noise machine should have adjustable volume settings to accommodate different environments and preferences. This feature allows the sound level to be adjusted according to the noise level outside the waiting room, ensuring that it effectively masks unwanted sounds without being overly loud.
- Portability: Choosing a portable white noise machine can provide flexibility in placement and use. Being able to move the machine around allows for optimal positioning to cover sound from various directions, enhancing the overall effectiveness in different waiting areas.
- Timer Settings: Machines with timer functions can help manage sound presence during quieter times. This feature allows the white noise to be turned off during less busy hours, conserving energy and giving staff control over the auditory environment.
- Multiple Sound Options: Some white noise machines offer a variety of sound options beyond just white noise, including nature sounds and ambient music. This variety can cater to different preferences among clients, promoting a more personalized and soothing waiting experience.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is crucial for quick adjustments and operation. White noise machines that are simple to set up and operate can reduce stress for staff and ensure consistent use throughout the day.
- Durability: Investing in a durable machine can provide long-term benefits, especially in a busy waiting room environment. A robust design can withstand frequent use and accidental bumps, ensuring reliable performance over time.
What Other Devices Can Work Well with White Noise Machines in Waiting Areas?
In addition to white noise machines, several devices can enhance the auditory environment in waiting areas.
- Sound Masking Systems: These systems provide a broader range of sound frequencies to effectively mask unwanted noise, creating an environment conducive to privacy and comfort. They can be integrated into the architecture of a space, making them less intrusive while providing consistent sound coverage across large areas.
- Bluetooth Speakers: Portable Bluetooth speakers can be used to play calming music or nature sounds alongside white noise. Their versatility allows for easy relocation and adjustment of volume, making them a great addition to any waiting area where ambiance needs to be tailored to the situation.
- Smart Home Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home can play white noise or relaxing sounds on command and can be adjusted via voice control. They also provide additional functionalities such as setting schedules for sound activation, which can be useful for specific times of high foot traffic.
- Air Purifiers with Noise Features: Some air purifiers come equipped with white noise or soothing sounds to mask environmental noise while improving air quality. This dual functionality can be particularly beneficial in healthcare or office settings where air quality and auditory comfort are equally important.
- Acoustic Panels: While not a sound-producing device, acoustic panels can absorb excess sound and reduce noise levels in waiting areas. By strategically placing these panels, the overall sound quality can be improved, complementing the effects of a white noise machine.