Best way to block sound?

Hi guys, this is my first post here. My main problem with sleep is that I live right next to a noisy environment, and I keep getting woken up by noises. I did some research and found that I can use:

[*]A noisy fan
[*]A white noise machine
[*]Earplugs

Which one of these solutions works best? Do they work better when used in conjunction with each other? Also, which products do you recommend?

Thanks!

I use earplugs. As the cheapest of the three options listed, they're probably a good place to start. Where I live there's a good selection available at both hardware stores and at work safety suppliers (i.e. the shops that provide equipment like hardhats and steel-capped boots to construction workers). Earplugs come in different grades - some block out more noise than others. This is deliberate, because in industrial situations a worker may need to be protected from loud engine noise, but still need to hear a radio or siren.

I just use the disposable foam earplugs that you roll into a thin tube in your hands and then push into your ear canal. When they're in properly, I can't hear background noise, but can still hear my alarm when it goes off in the morning. Maybe try that sort first, and if they help, you can then look at the more expensive/durable earplugs.

Thanks, will give it a go.

If your computer is in the same room as your bed, then you could probably find white noise online to try looping. I'd guess that white noise and fans would be more effective with semi-continuous noise, such as traffic or generators. If you have, for example, a pub next door, and are being bothered by people noise, because that's intermittent, it'll be harder to tune out. So earplugs are probably going to work best.

If you're worried about not hearing the alarm [and you may need that level of earplug if the noises are loud and occasional] then if you have a phone that can be set to vibrate, using that as an alarm backup under your pillow might work. In the past I've also put a light on a timer switch which is effective in an otherwise dark room.

I have used a fan since i was a teenager. It has a nice steady sound,ones with metal blades are the best.