How to Block Out Traffic Noise While Sleeping?

how to block out traffic noise while sleeping

I have lived in quite a few apartments and stayed in countless hotel rooms where traffic noise was waking me up several times a night. Over time, I have developed a good understanding of what works to block out enough noise to help me fall and stay asleep. Whether you have traffic noise keeping you …

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White Noise Machine vs Fan: Which Is Better for Sleep?

white noise machine vs fan for sleeping

My first white noise machine was a pedestal fan. It was very soothing and easy to fall asleep with. Over time though, when the traffic outside got louder, that fan wasn’t loud enough anymore. I am not sure whether consumer white noise machines even existed at that time. My friend had a marvelous trick to …

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Sleepbox Portable Sound Machine Review

Sleepbox Portable Sound Machine Review

This is the next installment in my white noise machine test and review series. The Sleepbox is a budget sound machine and one of the few white noise machines with a removable (!) rechargeable battery.  With a weight of only 5.4 oz (152 g) and a small housing (4.3×4.3×1.4 inches) it is very portable indeed. …

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Marpac Dohm vs Lectrofan: Is the Original Better than Digital Sound?

Marpac Dohm vs Lectrofan

In recent years, the two most popular white noise machines have been the Marpac Dohm and the Lectrofan, now called the Lectrofan Classic. The Dohm has been made since 1962—and is still being made. While similar in popularity, these two are very different sound conditioners, appealing to different people and uses. I have tested the …

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How to Block Bass Noise—and Save Your Sanity

How to block bass noise

To our neighbor the music might sound perfectly balanced, but for us “it’s all about the bass.” Or, suppose the bass is coming from a party across the street or a dance club. You live pretty far away, but still, the rhythm of the drums coming through your windows and door is inviting you to …

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7 Different Types of Earplugs and What They Are Used For

Different types of earplugs

The purpose of this post is to provide an overview of different types of earplugs, prime use cases, and some peculiarities you need to know when using them. Common uses of earplugs include: Hearing protection at work and at the range Hearing protection at concerts and other entertainment venues while maintaining sound fidelity Noise reduction …

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How to Block Loud Footstep Noise from an Upstairs Apartment?

how to block loud footstep noiss

Years ago, I had my first experience with prolonged insomnia when new neighbors moved into the upstairs apartment and started living at around midnight every single night. I would go to bed at perhaps 11 pm and soon thereafter the couple upstairs would come home and start walking back and forth—on top of my bedroom. …

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Lectrofan Micro 2 Review: Tiny, but Big Sound?

Lectrofan Micro 2: Travel White Noise Machine Review

The Lectrofan Micro 2 easily fits in the palm of your hand and weighs a mere 3.4 ounces (97 g). Wow, this little gadget weighs almost nothing… Yet it is s a fully-featured travel white noise machine: It has 11 different sound options, including 4 white noises, 5 fan sounds, and 2 ocean surf sounds. …

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