Mainz – September 11, 2026 -- Constant background noise from white noise machines, audiobooks and headphones may be overwhelming children's hearing, according to Eberhard Schmidt, a certified hearing acoustician and president of Germany's Bundesinnung der Hörakustiker (biha).
Schmidt, who also specializes in pediatric hearing care, says ears are always "on" and cannot simply switch off. The real risk comes from a combination of high volume, close proximity to sound sources, and nonstop exposure -- not from sound itself.
Hearing develops before birth, around the fifth month of pregnancy
Unborn babies can perceive sound starting around the fifth month of pregnancy, Schmidt explains. While amniotic fluid and tissue reduce volume, loud repeated noise -- such as at concerts or noisy workplaces -- can still reach the fetus and should be limited during pregnancy.
White noise should be a sleep aid, not an all-day soundtrack
White noise -- steady sounds like a fan, hairdryer, vacuum cleaner or rainfall -- can help babies fall asleep because it mimics the constant hum heard in the womb and masks sudden noises. But Schmidt warns it should only be used briefly when needed, kept as quiet as possible, and placed at a safe distance from the child. Babies still need their parents' voices, everyday sounds, and regular quiet time.
Audiobooks and music need scheduled breaks, not endless loops
As children get older, audiobooks and music often play on repeat in the car or during play. Schmidt recommends starting playback deliberately and switching it off after one episode, rather than leaving it running unattended. For headphone use, he offers a simple rule: if parents can no longer talk to their child at normal volume while headphones are on, the volume is too high.
Small daily changes can reintroduce silence
Schmidt suggests not automatically turning on the radio, skipping background music during play, and leaving some car rides without audio entertainment. Time outdoors lets children notice ambient sounds and direct their own attention.
Parents should watch for signs that a hearing test is needed
Frequent "what?", misunderstood instructions, unusually loud speech, constantly raising device volume, or delayed speech development can all warrant a hearing check, Schmidt says. The same applies after exposure to very loud events or if a child reports ringing in the ears. Hearing acoustician practices typically offer hearing tests for free and advise families on age-appropriate use of headphones and ear protection.