Noisy neighbours are one of the most common sleep disruptors for Australians living in apartments, townhouses, and suburban homes. Whether it’s late-night conversations, music, footsteps, or early-morning noise, unwanted sound from next door can make it nearly impossible to fall asleep — or stay asleep.
A white noise machine won’t eliminate the noise, but it can make it significantly less disruptive. Here’s how sound masking works, and which machines are best for blocking out noisy neighbours.
How Does a Sound Machine Block Out Noise?
It’s important to understand what a white noise machine actually does — because it doesn’t block sound in the physical sense. It doesn’t create a soundproof barrier or cancel noise like noise-cancelling headphones.
Instead, it works through auditory masking. By filling the room with a consistent, broadband sound, it reduces the contrast between the background noise level and the disruptive sounds coming from next door. Your brain is wired to respond to sudden changes in sound — a door slamming, voices rising, music starting. When the background noise level is raised consistently by white noise, those sudden changes become less noticeable, less jarring, and less likely to wake you.
Think of it like this: if you’re in a silent room and someone drops a book, it’s startling. If you’re in a room with a fan running, the same sound barely registers. That’s auditory masking in action.
What Type of Noise is Best for Blocking Neighbours?
For blocking environmental noise like neighbours, traffic, and urban sounds, you want a sound that covers a broad frequency range. Here’s how the main options compare:
- White noise — covers all frequencies equally; the most effective for broad noise masking; ideal for blocking a wide range of neighbour sounds
- Brown noise — deeper and more bass-heavy; slightly less effective at masking higher-frequency sounds like voices, but more comfortable for extended listening
- Pink noise — a middle ground; effective masking with a softer sound than white noise
- Fan noise — natural, mechanical fan sound (like the Dohm); highly effective and preferred by many for its organic, non-looping quality
For most people dealing with noisy neighbours, white noise or fan-based noise provides the best masking coverage. If you find white noise too harsh for all-night listening, brown or pink noise is a comfortable alternative that still provides solid masking.
How Loud Should You Set Your White Noise Machine?
This is the most important practical question. The louder the white noise, the more effective the masking — but there are limits for safe, comfortable use.
- For adults: Up to 65–70 decibels is generally considered safe for sleep use. This is roughly the volume of a normal conversation.
- For babies and children: Keep it at or below 50 decibels at ear level.
- Placement: Position the machine between you and the noise source where possible — near the shared wall, window, or door — for maximum effectiveness.
If your neighbours are particularly loud, you may need to combine a white noise machine with other strategies like earplugs, heavy curtains, or door draft stoppers to get the best result.
Best Sound Machines for Blocking Noisy Neighbours
Dohm White Noise Machine — Best for Natural Fan Sound
The Dohm is the original fan-based white noise machine and remains one of the most effective options for noise masking. Unlike digital machines, it produces real mechanical fan sound — no loops, no repetition, no digital artefacts. The result is a natural, organic sound that many people find easier to sleep with long-term. Two speed settings let you adjust the tone and volume to suit your environment.
Tranquillity Bluetooth White Noise Machine — Best for Versatility
The Tranquillity offers 20 sounds including white noise, fan sounds, and nature sounds, plus Bluetooth so you can stream your own audio. If you want to experiment with different sounds to find what works best for your specific noise situation, this is an excellent choice.
Serenity Portable White Noise Machine — Best for Flexibility
The Serenity is rechargeable and portable, making it easy to move between rooms or take when travelling. With 24 sounds and a long battery life, it’s a versatile option for renters who move frequently or need a solution for multiple rooms.
Other Tips for Sleeping with Noisy Neighbours
A white noise machine works best as part of a broader approach to noise management:
- Earplugs: Combine with a white noise machine for maximum noise reduction. Foam earplugs can reduce noise by 25–33 decibels.
- Heavy curtains or acoustic panels: Absorb sound coming through windows and walls.
- Door draft stoppers: Reduce noise coming under doors from hallways and shared spaces.
- White noise on both sides: If noise is coming from multiple directions, consider two machines or a machine with a 360-degree sound projection.
- Talk to your neighbours: Sometimes a polite conversation resolves the issue entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a white noise machine completely block out neighbours?
No — a white noise machine masks noise rather than eliminating it. It reduces the contrast between background noise and disruptive sounds, making them less noticeable and less likely to wake you. For very loud neighbours, combining a white noise machine with earplugs provides the best result.
Where should I place my white noise machine for best results?
Position the machine between you and the noise source — near the shared wall, window, or door. This maximises the masking effect. For bedroom use, placing it on a bedside table or dresser works well for most people.
What volume should I set my white noise machine to block neighbours?
For adults, up to 65–70 decibels is generally safe and effective. Start at a moderate volume and increase until the neighbour noise becomes less noticeable. Avoid going so loud that you need to raise your voice to speak over it.
Is a fan as effective as a white noise machine for blocking noise?
A fan can work, but a dedicated white noise machine is generally more effective and more convenient. Machines offer consistent volume control, multiple sound options, and are designed specifically for sleep use. The Dohm white noise machine actually uses a real fan mechanism, giving you the best of both worlds.
Can I use a white noise machine in an apartment?
Absolutely — white noise machines are particularly popular in apartments and urban environments where noise from neighbours, traffic, and shared spaces is a common problem. They’re one of the most effective and affordable solutions available.
Will white noise help if my neighbours are very loud?
White noise is most effective for moderate noise levels. For very loud neighbours, it’s best used in combination with earplugs and other soundproofing measures. If noise levels are extreme, contacting your body corporate or local council may also be necessary.
