Sleep machines with pink noise have been widely used to block out background noises and create a calming environment, but a new study suggests they may actually disrupt the most restorative stages of sleep. Researchers found that pink noise reduced REM sleep, which is important for memory consolidation and emotional processing.
Unlike earplugs, which were shown to be effective at shielding people from traffic noise and protecting overall sleep quality, pink noise machines had a negative impact on REM sleep. When pink noise was played alongside outside noise, sleep quality declined further. The study’s lead author notes that this is especially concerning for children, who rely heavily on REM sleep during early developmental stages.
While the results may be surprising to some, they highlight the need for more research into the health effects of broadband noise in bedrooms. Experts recommend using sound machines with low volumes, especially in children’s rooms, and suggest that earplugs may be a better option for those seeking to improve their sleep quality.
Source: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sleep-machine-disruptive_l_69a8913de4b0d5c3456653f7