The quest for better sleep is ongoing for many of us. Duvet vs Comforter is one of the many debates when it comes to creating the ideal sleep environment. We go to bed at a reasonable hour only to be jolted awake by the neighbor's barking dog or our partner's snoring just minutes later. After finally dozing off again, our blissful slumber is soon interrupted by the sounds of early morning traffic. Studies indicate that nearly 30 percent of adults experience sleep difficulties. Noise can be a significant factor that impacts our ability to get a good night's rest. The best noise-cancelling earplugs for sleeping can help you block out those unwanted sounds so you can finally sleep soundly through the night, undisturbed by snoring, traffic, or noise, so you wake up feeling truly rested and clear-headed.
In addition to earplugs, Yumerest's solution, featuring cloud-like fluffy duvets, can also help you achieve your sleep goals. These ultra-plush comforters cocoon you in softness, so you can fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly throughout the night.
Which Earplugs Are Best for Sleeping?
Sleep earplugs can significantly reduce unwanted ambient noise and enhance sleep quality. They’re particularly beneficial for light sleepers residing in noisy environments, those working irregular shift patterns, and when travelling.
Noise sources can include:
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Traffic
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Snoring
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Loud neighbors
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Barking dogs
For some people, earplugs can also help to create a calming environment for sleep by blocking out distracting sounds.
Types of Earplugs for Sleeping
There is a range of styles to choose from, but most earplugs are made from either wax, foam, or silicone.
Here, we look at the benefits of each.
Foam Earplugs
Typically, disposable foam plugs are inexpensive and offer an effective solution for masking unwanted noise. They’re great for travel, but if you’re using them frequently, they will need replacing.
Wax Earplugs
These single-use earplugs, which are warmed in the hands and then molded before being placed in the ear, tend to provide a tight seal; they can feel slightly greasy and rigid.
Silicone Earplugs
According to Tutton, silicone plugs are the most durable option, striking a balance between comfort and noise reduction. They can be more expensive than wax and foam options, though.
Flanged Earplugs
These cone-shaped earplugs feature multiple ridges (flanges) that help them fit snugly in the ear canal. They offer a decent level of noise reduction, but many models have extra material that sticks out from the ear, making them less comfortable for sleeping. As a result, they might not be the best choice for bedtime use.
Custom-Molded Earplugs
These options offer the best fit, which means they're typically more comfortable and have excellent noise reduction. They require a custom fitting and are considerably more expensive than other options.
Electronic Earplugs
Electronic earplugs take noise masking to the next level by playing colored noise, such as:
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White noise
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Pink noise
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Other sounds like music
They allow for more control over the noise reduction level, making them ideal for particularly loud environments. They come with a few drawbacks: they’re among the most expensive options, require regular charging, and can sometimes be prone to technical issues.
Picking the Right Earplugs for You
When selecting the best earplugs for sleep, two key factors should be considered: comfort and effectiveness. If earplugs are uncomfortable, especially in such a sensitive area, they’ll likely keep you awake rather than help you drift off. And if they fail to block out disruptive noise, they simply won’t serve their purpose.
To find the most effective options, I consulted with sleep specialists and everyday users to determine their go-to earplugs for restful nights, as well as what buyers should look for. “Earplugs can significantly reduce unwanted ambient noise and enhance sleep quality,” says Madison Tutton, audiologist at Eargym. “They’re particularly beneficial for light sleepers in noisy environments, people working irregular shifts, and when travelling.”
Materials & Types of Earplugs
According to Tutton, most earplugs are made from one of three primary materials:
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Wax
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Foam
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Silicone
Here’s a breakdown of the common types and their pros and cons:
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Foam Earplugs
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Affordable and disposable
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Highly effective at blocking noise
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Ideal for travel or occasional use
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Need regular replacement if used nightly
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Wax Earplugs
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Moulded by hand for a tight seal
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Effective at blocking noise
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Can feel greasy or rigid
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Typically single-use
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Silicone Earplugs
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Durable and reusable
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Comfortable and suitable for long-term use
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More expensive than foam or wax
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Offers a balance between comfort and performance
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Flanged Earplugs
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Cone-shaped with multiple ridges for a snug fit
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Provides moderate noise reduction
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Often protrude from the ear, making them less suitable for side sleepers
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Not ideal for sleeping despite a good fit
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Custom-Moulded Earplugs
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Tailored to your ear shape for maximum comfort
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Excellent noise-blocking capabilities
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Require professional fitting
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Significantly more expensive
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Electronic Earplugs
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Actively play white/pink noise or music to mask sounds
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Customisable noise control
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Best for loud or unpredictable environments
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Expensive, requires charging, and may have technical issues
Safety Considerations When Using Earplugs for Sleep
Yes, earplugs are generally safe for improving sleep quality, according to Christina Kourie, clinical audiologist at Pindrop Hearing. Regular use can sometimes lead to earwax build-up, which may cause discomfort, itching, or even increase the risk of bacterial infections.
To minimise these risks:
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Clean reusable earplugs every few days with a gentle wash or wipe.
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Replace disposable plugs frequently to prevent hygiene issues.
Safety Considerations Before Using Earplugs
That said, earplugs and sleep headphones aren’t suitable for everyone. “I wouldn’t recommend them for people prone to ear infections, wax build-ups, or with ear canal abnormalities,” says Kourie. “If you’re unsure, consult a clinical audiologist for an ear canal assessment and tailored advice.”
She also warns against completely blocking out all sound. “While earplugs should help mask disruptive noise, they shouldn't prevent you from hearing critical sounds like a crying baby or a fire alarm. It's important that essential alerts remain audible while you sleep.”
Related Reading
20 Best Noise-Cancelling Earplugs for Sleeping
1. Alpine Silence Earplugs
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Material: Thermoplastic
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Type: Reusable
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Noise-reduction rating: 16
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Single-noise rating: 22
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Price: $25 for one pair
The Alpine Silence earplugs check all the boxes I want for a reusable sleep earplug. They are:
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Unobtrusive
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Comfortable
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Reasonably priced
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Effective at blocking noise
They are made from Alpine’s proprietary thermoplastic material, which is silicone-free but feels extremely similar to silicone. (They’re also latex-free and hypoallergenic.) The earplugs are quite pliant. I can easily bend them with my fingers, and the thermoplastic becomes more moldable when warm, but they always retain their shape.
What makes these earplugs stand out is the V-shaped external piece, which fits snugly into the concha of my ear (the flat part next to the opening of the ear canal). The overall design of the Alpines is similar to many other earplugs on the market (see the Loop and Curvd earplugs discussed below), but that V-shape makes the outer part of the earplug quite small and allows it to lie flatter in my ear than other styles I’ve tried. This also makes the Alpine Silence earplugs an especially great pick for side sleepers.
Why Shape and Sizing Matter for Noise Isolation
The other design detail I appreciate about the Alpines is the oval shape of the ear tip (the part that goes into your ear canal), which allows for a more snug fit in the ear, and ultimately blocks sound better than rounder designs. The Alpine Silence earplugs come with four sizes of ear tips so you can try different sizes to find the one that fits best, such as:
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Extra small
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Small
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Medium
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Large
My pair came preloaded with the medium ear tips, but I ended up swapping them for the small ones.
I also think the Alpine Silence earplugs are a good deal. One $25 pair could easily last years; the earplugs can be washed with soap and water to keep them clean, and other than losing or damaging them, there’s no real reason to replace them. Alpine also provides a small carrying case to store them in.
2. Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs, 50 Pairs
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Material: Foam
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Type: Disposable
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Noise-reduction rating: 33
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Price: 50 pairs for $16 ($.32 per pair)
If there’s one brand name I heard more than any other while reporting this guide, it was Mack’s. The effective noise-blocking properties, comfortable feel, and affordable price of these earplugs make them my top pick for disposable earplugs for sleep.
They’ve been recommended by multiple people, including someone who lives on a busy Brooklyn street with lots of traffic noise and another who has hyperacusis. This condition causes extreme sound sensitivity.
Based on those recommendations, I tried Mack’s earplugs myself. I’ve used these types of foam earplugs many times in the past, especially for concerts. However, the foam used for Mack’s is considerably softer than the foam on earplugs designed more for hearing protection. This soft foam provides a more comfortable fit while sleeping.
Exceptional Noise Blocking for Deep Focus and Rest
I was also highly impressed with how much noise these earplugs can block; they are easily some of the most effective earplugs I’ve tried to date. My experience tracks with that of writer Lisa McCarty, the Mack’s user with hyperacusis, who says, “They reduce the sounds of everything from construction noise to background conversation, making the room go quiet. It’s almost a meditative state when I put them in, as it helps me focus on my breathing instead of the noise and stimulation outside.”
Deep Seal, Deeper Sleep: Mack’s Foam Earplug Experience
Mack’s earplugs have the highest possible NRR at 33, but they also plug the ear canal more than the other styles I’ve tried, which can take some getting used to. To insert them, pinch the foam, then insert the earplugs. Let them expand in your ear, creating a thorough seal.
One drawback is that if you twist the foam too tightly, the earplugs may push uncomfortably on your ear once expanded, so you may need to practice a few times. Between their comfort, effective noise blocking, and affordable price, Mack’s earns the top spot for disposable earplugs.
3. Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs, 50 Pairs
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Material: Foam
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Type: Disposable
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Noise-reduction rating: 31
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Price: 50 pairs for $14 ($.29 per pair)
If you struggle to find earplugs that fit your smaller ears, these Slim Fit disposable earplugs from Mack’s come highly recommended by Jeff Kahn, the founder and CEO of the RISE app. Kahn has been using these earplugs for over 10 years and says they are comfortable for sleeping, even on his side, and that the “slow release, low-pressure, and tapered foam means they get a good seal and don’t exert that familiar pressure feel from inside the ear.”
These are similar to our top pick, but with a slimmer profile suited for smaller ears. They do have a slightly lower NRR than the other Mack’s, but 31 is still a very high NRR.
4. Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
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Material: Silicone
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Type: Reusable
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Noise-reduction rating: 14
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Single-noise rating: 24
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Price: $25 for one pair
The earplugs’ design is pretty similar to audio earbuds. They have a silicone ear tip that goes into the opening of the ear canal and a loop-shaped external piece that you can hold as you put them in and take them off. Like my top-pick Alpine Silence earplugs, they come with four sizes of ear tips to ensure a good fit, such as:
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Extra small
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Small
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Medium
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Large
Mine arrived with the medium tips already on, which turned out to be the best size for my ears. They also come with a small carrying case.
Silicone Comfort with Solid Noise Blocking: A Look at Loop Quiet
The Loop earplugs have a slightly lower NRR of 14 compared to the Alpines’ NRR of 16, but they easily blocked the sound of a TV in the next room while I took a nap. They sit snugly, without feeling pressurized or tight, and the small loop rests by the flat part of my ear. They are plenty comfortable for sleeping, and I didn’t feel any pressure while lying on my side.
The Loop Quiet earplugs are very similar to the Alpine ones above, with slight differences in shape; the Loop Quiet’s shape is a bit rounder. The external piece is a circular “loop” instead of a V. Ultimately, I found the Alpine’s V-shaped external piece and more oval shape a touch more comfortable, which is why it edged out the Loop Quiets for the top spot in this guide.
5. Loop Dream Earplugs
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Material: Silicone and foam
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Type: Reusable
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Noise-reduction rating: 21
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Single-noise rating: 27
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Price: $50 for one pair
In late 2024, Loop introduced the Loop Dream, a sleep earplug designed as a softer, slightly more advanced version of the Loop Quiet. While the two share a similar shape, the Dream features an additional silicone layer over the external loop, providing added flexibility and comfort. For some, this may ease stiffness, but the difference was minimal in practice.
The Dream’s foam-and-silicone tips, shaped more like an oval plug, offer a better seal and a slightly higher Noise Reduction Rating (NNR) of 21 compared to Quiet’s 14. This meant they needed to be inserted deeper, and I had to size down to extra-small tips for a secure fit, unlike the medium tips I used with the Quiet.
6. Alpine SleepDeep Earplugs
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Material: Thermoplastic
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Type: Reusable up to 100 times
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Noise-reduction rating: 27
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Price: Starting at $17 for one pair (or $19 for two pairs, one in each size)
If you want a reusable earplug with the softness of disposable foam, the Alpine SleepDeep is an excellent pick. Made from Alpine’s signature thermoplastic, these plugs are softer and more flexible than the Alpine Silence, with a texture similar to a deflated balloon rather than silicone. They mold to your ear with body heat and fit snugly, thanks to their cone shape and low-profile design, with only a small tab for removal.
Though they don’t block quite as much noise as Mack’s foam earplugs (NRR 27 vs. 33), the SleepDeep still offer substantial noise reduction and can be reused up to 100 times. They’re available in two sizes, small and a combined medium/large, for $19 a pair, or $20 for a two-pack (one of each size). A compact carrying case is also included.
7. Eargasm Squishies Moldable Silicone Earplugs for Sleep, 8 Pairs
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Material: Silicone
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Type: Reusable for a limited time
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Noise-reduction rating: 22
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Price: 8 pairs for $17 ($2.13 per pair)
If you’d rather not stick an earplug into your ear canal, these moldable silicone earplugs act more like a cap to the ear canal. To use them, warm up the silicone by rolling it between your hands, then press and flatten it into the center of the external part of your ear. At first, this process felt a little like sticking Play-Doh into my ears (in line with the name Squishies). But once I got the silicone molded and flattened, I was impressed with both how comfortable the earplugs felt and how much noise they blocked.
These earplugs come in a pack of eight and are reusable, according to the Eargasm customer service representative I spoke to. They will eventually need to be replaced after prolonged use. You should get decent mileage out of them, which might justify the slightly higher cost per pair, compared to some of the other earplugs on this list (minus the infinitely reusable ones).
8. Ohropax Wax Ear Plugs, 6 Pairs
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Material: Wax
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Type: Disposable
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Noise-reduction rating: 23
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Price: $7 for six pairs ($1.17 per pair)
These wax earplugs come recommended by two sources we spoke to, both of whom like them for their moldability. They are very similar to the Eargasm Squishies, above, and fit into the outer ear, not directly into the ear canal. “They do an outstanding job of conforming to the ear to block out sound,” says Bill Fish, former president of Sleep Doctor.
“But they are also quite comfortable, as they come with a soft cotton cover around the wax.” If you want a moldable earplug that is not made of silicone, these are a good choice. Because they are disposable, they will incur a higher cost in the long run.
9. EarPlanes
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Material: Silicone
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Type: Reusable up to 14 times
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Noise-reduction rating: 20
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Price: $20 for one pair
If you’re looking for earplugs specifically designed to help you sleep on a flight, two of the experts we spoke to recommend these Earplanes’ silicone earplugs as a red-eye essential that can also serve as a sleep aid at home or in a hotel. As the name suggests, they’re designed specifically for use on airplanes and have four rings that are meant to mitigate changes in air pressure and help muffle in-flight noise.
According to Dr. Michael Breus, the self-proclaimed Sleep Doctor (who is also a clinical psychologist and fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine), they were designed by the House Ear Institute, an ear surgery and research center in California. U.S. Navy pilots tested them before they were introduced to the general public.
10. Soundcore Sleep A20 Earbuds
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Material: Earbuds with silicone ear tips
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Type: Reusable
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Noise-reduction rating: N/A
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Price: $150 for one pair
I was really interested in these Bluetooth sleep earbuds because I love listening to a podcast when I’m taking a nap or even just lying down to rest. It calms my mind and helps prevent me from overthinking things. But most audio earbuds are at least a little uncomfortable to sleep in because of how they stick out of your ear. Because they are specifically designed for sleep, the Soundcores are impressively unobtrusive.
They look like fairly normal earbuds, but they have a flatter external design, as well as a silicone wingtip that acts like a cushion between the more complex pieces of the earbud and the ear itself. They come with three different wingtip sizes you can try, as well as four sizes of sealed ear tips for noise blocking and three sizes of “breathable” ear tips that allow for more airflow, but don’t block noise. This level of customization makes them exceptionally versatile earbuds.
Switching Between Sleep and Bluetooth Modes with Soundcore
I first tested the Soundcores by listening to a podcast. The sound quality wasn’t quite as good as my AirPods, but the Soundcores felt far better in my ears while lying down, especially on my side. Then I downloaded the Soundcore app, which offers numerous nifty features. You can switch between Bluetooth mode, which allows you to play whatever you want from your phone, and Sleep mode, which will enable you to play white noise or a variety of nature/ASMR-esque sounds through the app.
You can also do a fair amount of customization through the app, like setting a timer on the sounds so that you aren’t playing music or other audio for hours after you’ve fallen asleep, or even creating your custom sounds. I don’t think I would sleep with these every single night, but I will continue to use them when I want to listen to music or podcasts while falling asleep.
11. Navly Sleep and Sports Headband
Score: 89/100
This Navly offering stands out from the crowd for its innovative headband design, ideal for those who don’t enjoy the sensation of earphones digging in. Our testers were a little sceptical to begin with, but the clever gadget quickly won them over.
The soft elastic headband houses two speakers and boasts Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to listen to your music, meditation, or white noise as you drift off. According to our panel, it was surprisingly comfy to sleep on, and they said their audio of choice didn’t disturb their partners.
The sound was crisp and clear, and the device itself was easy to set up, use, and clean. “I would never have considered using this product but now I love it,” declared one satisfied tester, adding that they would “definitely recommend it”.
12. Earth's Secret Mute Earplugs
These nifty little plugs from Earth’s Secret come with a durable zipped carry case, making them an excellent choice if you’re a frequent traveller (or just prone to losing things). You also get two pairs of plugs (one small, one medium) with your purchase, making them an excellent value for money at under £15.
Despite the budget-friendly price tag, they’re made from hypoallergenic, medical-grade thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) to prevent irritation and discomfort. They also offer up 26dB noise reduction to help you snooze in the noisiest settings, and they’re reusable and easy to clean.
They were a massive hit with our testing panel. “They’ve changed my sleep quality immensely,” said one satisfied tester, while another told us: “These have been a life-changer for me!” They performed well in terms of blocking out unwanted sounds, were comfortable to lie on, and everyone said they'd recommend them to others.
13. Beary Quiet Foam Earplugs
Whether you’re burdened with a snoring spouse, you work shifts, or travel often, these fuss-free foam plugs are worth considering. They offer a whopping 38dB of noise reduction, which is the highest in this round-up. “I can’t hear my snoring partner with them in,” said one satisfied tester. Sounds dreamy.
The reusable plugs, made from soft, hypoallergenic foam, are easy to use – simply roll them between your fingers and gently push them into your ears to activate the seal. Testers were impressed with the fit, noting that they felt comfortable and the product stayed in place overnight. “I don’t usually like the sensation of earplugs, but these have been game-changing,” one told us.
Each set of plugs lasts for up to seven uses, and the pack comes with a compact travel case, which is handy if you’re always on the go. Best of all, the brand offers a 30-day risk-free guarantee.
14. Kokoon Philips Sleep Headphones
Granted, they don’t come cheap, but if you struggle to drift off and tend to wake up throughout the night, these futuristic Phillips headphones could make all the difference. Panellists said they’d happily recommend them to friends and family, with one tester saying, “I loved every single thing about this product.”
They might look odd, but our panel confirmed they were “very comfortable” to sleep on; in fact, they barely noticed they had them on. While you can stream your own playlist, the accompanying Kokoon app has an extensive library of bedtime sounds, meditations, and stories for you to fall asleep to, these proved extremely popular with testers.
Finding Your Fit: Interchangeable Tips and Travel-Friendly Design
The headphones boast clever sensors, which can detect when you’re asleep and will fade the audio, introducing white noise to mask external sounds. They also scored highly for sound leakage, with no disturbances reported. As a bonus, they track your sleep, presenting all your key stats on the app in the morning, including the time spent in bed and sleep stages.
They come with six interchangeable tips, so you’re bound to find one that fits your ear shape and size, and they come with a handy travel case.
15. QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds
If you’re seeking total silence and standard earplugs just won’t cut it, these premium, noise-cancelling QuietOn buds are your perfect sleeping partner. They may look like standard earphones, but they won’t pump out any music – they’re simply kitted out with advanced active noise-cancelling technology and passive noise reduction, providing you with total peace when you need it.
Our panel was impressed with how simple they are to use, just charge them up (they go from 0-100 in less than an hour), pop them in, give them a turn, and you’re good to go. They’ll significantly reduce the noise around you, whether it’s your snoring spouse or the neighbours blasting their music at 1 am.
Memory Foam Tips for Maximum Comfort and Stability
“I popped them in my ears, and it was like someone had turned down the volume on the world around me,” said one tester.
They ticked the box in terms of comfort and security, with testers commenting that they didn’t fall out and were comfortable in any sleeping position. The memory foam tips expand in your ears for a snug fit, and the compact buds and charger go neatly inside the accompanying case, so they’re a top choice for travel.
16. Sennheiser Soundprotex Earplugs
We’re huge fans of Sennheiser’s sports headphones, so it’s hardly surprising we loved the brand’s earplugs, too. A lot of thought has gone into the impressive design, which offers two different noise filters (mid and strong) depending on the level of noise reduction desired, as well as three ear tips for a secure fit.
According to our panel, the full-block filter does an excellent job of blocking sound, and they have noticed an improvement in their sleep while using it. “I didn’t hear my husband snore at all!” said one happy tester. Everyone rated the comfortable, secure fit, too.
Balancing Comfort and Functionality in Noise Filtering
If you don’t want such high-level noise reduction, the mid filter is a nice middle ground, and can be used in different scenarios, including:
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Concerts
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Work
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When commuting
They’re incredibly tiny, so no one will notice you have them in, either. A couple of testers thought they were a little fiddly to insert and clean, but that wouldn’t stop them from using them again. If you’re after some plugs you can use in a variety of settings, these are your best bet.
17. Curvd Everyday Earplugs
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Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): 15 dB
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Type: Silicone
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Disposable/Reusable: Reusable
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Sizes available: One size with extra-small, small, medium, and large tips
These Curvd Everyday Earplugs were a close second to the Loop Quiet 2. Despite the higher NRR rating, they didn't block out as much sound for me, but they did muffle my partner's snoring well enough that I could fall asleep.
They have a similar silicone construction, with an ergonomic curved design meant to nestle comfortably into your ear, and it did. I could barely feel them when they were in, and there was no soreness, even when sleeping on my side.
How Design Enhances Comfort and Noise Reduction
The design also makes them easy to place and remove correctly. In addition to the curve, they have a loop shape, so you can pull them right out when needed. I liked that they weren't as small as some other earplugs, so I didn't misplace them as much. Even so, they didn't feel bulky in my ear.
Like the Loops, these earplugs also provide four tip sizes to help you get your ideal fit. I usually do well with the medium, but I did need the smaller tips for these to achieve a tight fit, so don't be afraid to experiment with them. The correct fit is vital to sound reduction.
18. SoundOff Sleep Earbuds
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Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): Variable
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Type: Electronic
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Disposable/Reusable: Reusable
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Sizes available: Comes with three different-sized ear tips
While regular earbuds can help reduce some noise, they don’t have the noise-masking capabilities of electronic options. If you’re dealing with a boisterous sleeping environment or simply enjoy the soothing hum of fan-like sounds, the SoundOff Sleep Earbuds might be your best bet. These earbuds play pink noise, which is softer and more relaxing than white noise and potentially more effective in improving sleep quality.
Usually, I shy away from white-noise machines and find fans too distracting, but the pink noise from these earbuds struck a perfect balance. It was calming without being overwhelming and precisely what I needed on nights when snoring became unbearable.
Comfort and Fit Despite Bulkier Design
There are eight volume settings that you can easily toggle through using a button on the earbuds. I typically kept mine at around two or three, which was plenty loud. However, there’s no volume-down button, so if you accidentally turn it up too high, you’ll need to cycle through all eight levels to get back to your desired setting.
Despite their bulky size, the SoundOff earbuds were surprisingly comfortable. On some nights, I did experience slight soreness behind my ears from the hoops, particularly when sleeping on my side, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker. The earbuds also come with a charging case that holds enough power for three nights, so you won’t need to recharge them constantly.
19. Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs
The Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs are different from the others on this list. They're designed for live music festivals, so rather than blocking out noise, the intent is to lower the decibels of the sound around you to make the noise more manageable. When tested at a store and a coffee shop, they did an excellent job of blocking out voices, reducing pitch, and damping loud music.
You can also use them for sleeping at home but only if you're strictly a back sleeper. The earplugs have a stem that sticks out straight from your ear canal, so not only are they uncomfortable when you're sleeping on your side, but they could also get pushed too far into your ear and cause problems.
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Additional details:
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Price: Less than $30
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Reusable: Yes
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Sound reduction: Up to 22 decibels (NRR is 15 decibels)
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Comfortable for sleeping: No
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Ease of use: Easy to use
20. Ozlo Sleepbuds
The Ozlo Sleepbuds are impressively effective at their job: getting you to bed. Once the Sleepbuds are in your ears, they produce noise-masking (not noise-canceling) white noise that's dialed at the perfect volume to reduce external distractions and help you quickly fall asleep (and you don't even need to connect them with a phone or the app for this to work).
If you download the app, you can customize your sleep sounds with up to 10 to choose from, set up an alarm in the earbuds, and put a timer on the earbuds for them to shut down after you've gone to bed. Some features, such as sleep tracking, will also be available soon in an over-the-air app update.
Earbuds That Feel Invisible When You Sleep
As far as comfort goes, you won't find a sleep earbud that's more comfortable to sleep in. This is thanks to the stabilizing ear wings that keep the buds in place without additional pressure buildup (that tends to cause soreness and sensitivity).
I'm a side sleeper and found these the most comfortable to wear as I turned from one side of my head to the other. In my review, I write that they dissolved into my ears, becoming nearly invisible as I fell asleep, which is all that you want out of a sleep earbud.
Related Reading
- How to Maximize Deep Sleep
- How to Improve Sleep Score
- Is It Bad to Sleep With Earplugs
- Weighted Blanket vs Comforter
What to Consider When Purchasing Earplugs for Sleep
Price: How Much Should You Pay for Earplugs for Sleeping?
Don't be surprised if you find sleeping earplugs available in a wide range of prices. The most affordable options tend to be disposable earplugs that you buy in bulk. You can find these for under 25 cents per pair. If you want something more durable, you'll likely turn to reusable earplugs that cost closer to $10 each. Some advanced models that feature noise-canceling technologies can run over $100.
Choosing the best value comes down to how you plan to use your earplugs. If you anticipate using them every night, then reusable earplugs are the clear choice. Although they require regular cleaning, they will save you money over time. The ongoing monthly cost of replacing disposable earplugs can quickly add up. If you plan to use earplugs only occasionally, or you don't want to clean them between uses, then disposable earplugs may be a better value.
Reusable vs. Single Use: Which Type of Earplugs is Best for Sleeping?
The choice between single-use and reusable earplugs may impact your comfort while sleeping. Most earplugs are intended for either single use or reusability.
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Disposable, single-use earplugs usually are composed of less durable materials to make them more affordable. They can be highly convenient, since you throw them away after use rather than cleaning them.
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Reusable earplugs utilize more durable materials, engineered to withstand nightly use. They should be cleaned regularly, which some owners may find inconvenient. They produce less waste and may save you money over time.
Materials: What Are Earplugs Made Of?
Earplugs may use a variety of materials, including:
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Foam is the most common and, usually, the most affordable option.
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Silicone models generally rest at the entrance of the ear and do not penetrate the ear canal much, if at all.
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Many people consider wax earplugs among the most effective, but they typically carry a higher price, despite being intended for single use.
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Some earplugs may also contain latex. For most individuals, this shouldn’t be a problem, but those with latex allergies should look at product descriptions carefully to ensure they select a latex-free model.
Noise Reduction Rating: How to Choose Earplugs That Will Help You Sleep
Noise reduction rating (NRR): Noise reduction rating, which is given in decibels (dB), measures how much sound an earplug can block when used alone. The higher the NRR, the more effective the earplugs. "When earplugs are inserted correctly, they can give the user 20 to 30 dB of sound attenuation," says Dr. Gregory Smith, ENT and surgeon at NJ ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery.
For context, he adds, "Most snoring averages between 40 to 50 dB with ambient sounds ranging from 15 to 30 dB." If you have a snoring partner, you should get the highest rating to muffle out as much sound as possible. On the flip side, if you're trying to block out quieter sounds, like someone talking in the other room, you may get away with a lower NRR.
Comfort: Finding the Right Fit for Earplugs for Sleeping
If you plan to wear earplugs while sleeping, comfort is crucial. Several factors can contribute to how comfortable earplugs feel to you, including their materials, size, and shape. Unfortunately, there’s no easy way to anticipate which earplugs will be most comfortable for you, so finding your ideal pair may be a matter of trial and error.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Understanding Earplug Care for Better Sleep Hygiene
The decision between disposable or reusable earplugs goes hand in hand with cleaning and maintenance. Disposable earplugs don't require cleaning since they are thrown away every few days. Smith says their porosity makes them more susceptible to bacteria and dirt, which can contribute to infections.
Because of this, you have to be diligent about swapping them out regularly. If you choose reusable earplugs, ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning. Cushing says silicone, vinyl or wax earplugs can usually be cleaned with mild soap and water, just make sure you dry them off with a clean cloth towel before reuse.
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