New Study Casts Doubt on Pink Noise as Sleep Aid

Research from the University of Pennsylvania suggests pink noise may disrupt crucial REM sleep stages.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania has challenged the long-held belief that pink noise is an effective sleep aid. The study found that while pink noise can mask disruptive environmental sounds, it significantly reduces the time spent in REM sleep, a crucial stage for cognitive function and mood regulation. This revelation is prompting a re-evaluation of sound-based sleep solutions and the sleep tech industry.

Why it matters

The findings of the University of Pennsylvania study raise concerns about the widespread use of pink noise machines, particularly for individuals already struggling with sleep. As the global sleep tech market continues to grow, driven by increasing awareness of sleep's importance, this research highlights the need for more personalized and targeted sleep solutions.

The details

The study, published in the journal Sleep, involved 25 healthy adults monitored over seven nights in a sleep lab. Participants were exposed to various sound conditions, including silence, environmental noise, pink noise, a combination of both, and environmental noise with earplugs. Researchers discovered that while pink noise effectively masked disruptive environmental sounds, it significantly reduced time spent in REM sleep by an average of 18.6 minutes. This is concerning because REM sleep is vital for mood regulation, memory consolidation, and mental focus. Stage 3 sleep, the deepest restorative phase, was also impacted by environmental noise, but not improved by pink noise.

  • The University of Pennsylvania study was published on February 4, 2026.

The players

University of Pennsylvania

A prestigious research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the study on the effects of pink noise on sleep was conducted.

Dr. Mathias Basner

The lead author of the University of Pennsylvania study and an expert in sleep research.

Dreem

A company pioneering personalized soundscapes and adaptive sound technology for sleep improvement.

Kokoon

A company developing EEG-based sleep tracking and adaptive sound technology to promote deeper sleep.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The University of Pennsylvania researchers plan to conduct further studies to better understand the long-term effects of pink noise on sleep and explore more personalized sound-based sleep solutions.

The takeaway

This study highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to sleep sound technology, moving away from one-size-fits-all solutions like pink noise and towards personalized soundscapes that can effectively promote deep, restorative sleep without disrupting crucial REM stages.