For parents whose vocal cords can't hold out for 200 rounds of "Hush Little Baby," a sound machine is a must for baby bedtime routines. And the DEX Sound Sleeper is one of the best ones we've ever found. This small (6 by 10 by 12 inches), simple device features a high quality speaker, on/off or 60-minute timer switch, volume control, single, combine, or random mode, battery or power adapter capability, headphone jack (headphones not included), and, most spectacularly, 10 sound options which can be combined to make 24 sound combinations altogether. Doctors and sleep experts recommend a consistent, relaxing sleep routine for newborns and older babies. Freeing baby's sleep environment of jarring or distracting outside noises is an important step in creating a soothing space for sleep. The Sound Sleeper provides just enough peaceful background noise to block household hubbub. Once baby becomes familiar with the sounds of this machine, she'll probably start yawning the minute she hears it! The Sounds of (Near) Silence
The sounds of Sound Sleeper don't have to be boring, just relaxing and repetitive. Experiment with the various sounds to find the perfect soporific.
Summer Night
The buzz of peeper frogs and insects is a happy, sleepy, country sound.
Rain
What's cozier than curling up in bed with a gentle rainstorm pattering outside the window?
Brook
Burble, burble, burble—just don't try this one when your toddler is potty-training!
Ocean
The deep tranquility of a calm ocean is unmatched for its lulling ability.
Wind
The wind blows quietly in the trees, but you and baby are safe and sound at home.
Womb
The rhythmic swishing sounds of the womb: it's a natural for soothing baby!
Seagull
Just a few lonely seagull cries, widely spaced.
Bird
Pretty, delicate bird song.
Buoy
The distant ringing of a bell buoy. Great in combination with the Ocean sound.
Thunder
Thunder rumbles, but the storm always stays far off in the distance. Best combined with Rain, of course.
Experiment with the Combine mode to find the perfect sleep-inducing sounds for your baby. We like Brook and Bird, Wind and Thunder, and Ocean and Buoy, but who knows? Maybe the magic combination will be Womb and Seagull!
The power adapter feature of the Sound Sleeper is very handy for everyday use, but the battery option is a lifesaver when traveling. The ability to leave the sound machine on all night long (or put it on the one-hour timer) is invaluable. Babies are notorious for waking up throughout the night; when they hear the same soothing sounds they fell asleep to, it will be much easier to return to those sweet dreams. Requires 4 AA batteries (not included). --Emilie Coulter
