😴 Sleep · 0–12 months
🌧️ Using white noise for baby sleep
Some babies settle with steady background sound; others prefer quiet. White noise is optional, does not treat illness and does not make an unsafe sleep setup safe.
Keep it simple
- A sound machine or recording with reliable volume control and an optional timer.
- Keep devices, chargers and cords well away from the cot and beyond your child's reach.
Gentle sound habits
1. Check baby's needs first
Look for hunger, a wet nappy, discomfort or illness before adding sound. Cry sounds are hard to distinguish and are not a validated diagnostic system.
2. Choose a steady recording
Try soft rain or a gentle continuous hum without sudden changes or adverts. Do not run a hairdryer, vacuum cleaner or vehicle just to produce sleep noise.
3. Keep it quiet and distant
Use the lowest helpful volume and place the device as far from baby's head as practical, never inside or attached to the cot. Do not turn it up to compete with loud surroundings.
4. Allow quiet
Try switching it off once baby settles or use a timer. Stop if baby seems unsettled. Ask your child's local clinic or clinician in Kenya if you have hearing concerns.
5. Keep sleep safety unchanged
Place baby on their back in their own flat, firm, clear sleep space, in your room for at least six months. Keep pillows, blankets and toys out; keep hats off indoors and avoid overheating. Do not use bedsharing or a sofa as a sleep alternative.
A local detail, or your own experience with this guide? Write to the team

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When in doubt, contact your doctor or midwife. For a life-threatening emergency, call 999 or 112.
