Micheline an old railcar rolling along
Inside a Micheline, the rubber-tyred railcars of the 1930s: a steady, reassuring rumble with no voices or announcements. Train sounds help a lot of people fall asleep.
Why an ambient sound helps you relax
A steady, natural sound holds your attention without demanding it: the brain stops watching out for sudden noises and can let go. That's why rain, waves or a log fire feel so soothing, and why so many people sleep better on a train or a plane.
Headphones are ideal, but small speakers are fine. Keep the volume low: the sound should cover the noise, not drown it out. If noise makes you suffer day to day, talk to a doctor or an ENT specialist.
Questions
What is a Micheline?
A light railcar running on rubber tyres, made by Michelin in the 1930s. The sound was recorded inside.
Why do train sounds make you sleepy?
Their steady rhythm and constant low hum rock you gently and cover the noise around you.
What is the best ambient sound for sleep?
Rain, ocean waves and airplane cabin noise are the most popular: steady, with no surprises. You can leave the sound on all night at a moderate volume; if you'd rather it faded out, set a timer.
Can I play two ambient sounds at once?
No, one at a time, so the sound stays clear. For a steady background, the white noise tool offers white, pink and brown noise.
Are the sounds royalty-free?
Yes. They are recordings their authors placed in the public domain (BigSoundBank, Freesound); the full list is on the sources page.
All ambient sounds : Thunderstorm · Airbus A330 · Boeing 737 · Waves · Wind · Night train · Train carriage · Fireplace · Stream · Rain on the terrace · Rain on an umbrella · Fan · Café · Fridge · Dishwasher · Purring cat · Purring cat (deep) · Forest birds · Garden birds