This $19 Sound Machine Saved My Sleep

From Woman's Day

Everyone wants to get more sleep. We're constantly bombarded with reminders that it can strengthen our immune system, sharpen our mind, and boost our metabolism. Basically all of our problems would be solved if we could just get more sleep. That sounds great and all, but when it actually comes to doing so it's not as simple as slipping under the covers earlier.

My bedroom is surrounded by noise. There's the city traffic outside the window, the squeaking steps of the tenants above, and worst of all, the dog that lives downstairs. The bane of my existence barks and whines at all hours of the day and night, with particularly lengthy performances beginning at 5:30 a.m. without fail. It's enough to make you sympathize with Cruella Deville.

Enter the Big Red Rooster White Noise Machine. This little bedside box drowns it all out: the honking, the barking, the squeaking ... just the blissful sounds of crickets on a warm summer night.

The beauty of the compact 4-inch machine is its simplicity. It has all the features you do need and none of the fancy gizmos you don't. Pick from six sounds: rain, brook, ocean, thunder, white noise, or summer night. Then set an optional timer for 15, 30, or 60 minutes or let it run uninterrupted. You can also plug it in or rely on battery power when you're on the road. (No weird hotel noises for you!)

While some people prefer investing in pricier sound machines that cost $50, $80, or more, I've found this one gets the job done for a fraction of the cost. The Big Red Rooster White Noise Machine has a $30 list price, but you'll find it on Amazon right now for 37% off at just $19. When you consider the cost of new sheets, better pillows, or an upgraded mattress, it's a pretty cheap way to improve your sleep environment with a potentially big return in terms of ZZZs.

I'm not the only fan. More than 4,000 other Amazon reviewers gave this machine a perfect five-star rating, finding it helped spouses, kids, and even pets stay sound asleep through the night. Maybe I should get one for the dog downstairs.

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