4 Jun 25 •
Before they ever open their eyes, babies live in a world full of sound.
Around 18 weeks into pregnancy, babies begin to hear their very first sounds inside the womb. From the steady thump of their mother’s heartbeat, the gentle whoosh of blood flowing, and the soft, rhythmic pulse of digestion, sound is a comforting constant. By 25 to 27 weeks, they’re also responding to sounds from outside the womb—like voices and music.
These early sounds aren’t just background noise—they’re the very first way babies start to connect to the world around them.
Research published in Early Human Development found that babies can recognise sounds they hear regularly in the womb, including their parents’ voices and even familiar melodies. As Dr. Alexandra Lamont, music psychologist at Keele University, explains:
“Babies can recognise music they heard in the womb up to four months after they are born. They are already used to the rhythm and sounds of the mother’s body, and hearing familiar sounds can soothe and comfort them after birth.”
It’s no wonder that once they’re born, sound becomes a powerful tool for calming and settling, used by parents all around the world to soothe their babies. From shushing and humming to playing gentle white noise or lullabies, sound is one of the most instinctive ways we help our little ones feel safe, comforted, and ready for sleep.
Not All Babies Are the Same — and Neither Are Their Sound Preferences
Just like adults, babies are wonderfully unique. Some little ones instantly relax to heartbeat sounds, which recreate the rhythmic comfort of their earliest environment. Others find peace in white noise or pink noise, which mimic the womb’s whooshing hum.
And as they grow, many babies start enjoying nature sounds like rainfall or ocean waves, or simple lullabies that offer a soft, soothing melody.
One thing almost every baby agrees on? The magic of their parents’ voices.
Your voice is one of the first things your baby ever hears—and even after birth, it remains one of the most powerful sources of comfort they have. Whether you’re singing, reading, or simply speaking softly, your voice can lower your baby’s stress and help them settle into sleep more easily.
Why Having a Flexible Sound Device Matters
Because babies’ needs (and moods!) can change from week to week—or even from nap to nap—it’s important to find a sound machine that can grow with them and their evolving needs, from babyhood, to toddlerhood and beyond. The most versatile options include a wide range of calming sounds—like heartbeats, white noise, nature sounds, or lullabies—to suit different stages and preferences. The ability to record your own voice can be especially comforting for babies who settle best with familiar tones.
Other practical features, like adjustable volume and playback duration, continuous play and remote control via an app, can make sleep routines easier and more flexible. And for families who are often on the move, a rechargeable, portable design can help maintain consistency no matter where sleep happens.
That’s exactly what inspired the creation of SleepaSloth—a baby sound machine and nightlight designed with real parent needs in mind. Developed by a mum of three who understands the ups and downs of baby sleep, it brings together all of these features in a portable, baby-safe design.
We’re Thrilled to Share This With You
As part of the Positively Parenthood community, readers can access an exclusive 20% discount on the SleepaSloth Baby Sound Machine: Use code POSITIVELY20 at checkout on the SleepaSloth website.
Whether you’re just starting with newborn sleep, navigating toddler nap transitions, or perfecting your bedtime routine, SleepaSloth grows with you—bringing comfort, calm, and flexibility every step of the way.
