Welcome to our Best Sleeping Earplugs Guide for 2023! If you struggle to get a good night’s (day’s sleep for night shifters) sleep due to outside noise or snoring partners, then earplugs might be the solution you’ve been searching for. Not only do earplugs block out unwanted sounds, but they can also help you sleep more soundly and wake up feeling more rested. This guide will review some of the best earplugs on the market, including options for different budgets, preferences, and noise levels. Whether you’re a night shift worker, a light sleeper, a frequent traveler, or need extra peace at home, we got you covered! But first, let’s answer some common questions about sleeping earplugs.
Are sleeping earplugs worth it?
Earplugs can be a helpful aid for getting good sleep, particularly if you’re easily disturbed by outside noise or snoring. They can help block out unwanted sounds and create a more peaceful and quiet environment for sleep.
However, it’s important to remember that earplugs are not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be the best option for everyone. Some people may find that earplugs are uncomfortable or that they cause irritation or pressure in the ear. Others may have difficulty getting used to the feeling of wearing earplugs or may find that they fall out during the night.
If you’re considering using earplugs for sleeping, it’s a good idea to try out a few different types and brands to see which ones work best for you. It’s also a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or an audiologist, if you have any concerns about using earplugs or if you have underlying ear issues.
Can sleeping with earplugs in damage your hearing?
There is generally no risk of hearing damage from using earplugs for sleeping, as long as they are used properly and do not create an excessively loud noise when inserted or removed. Earplugs are designed to reduce the volume of external sounds and protect the ear from loud noises, but they do not produce noise themselves.
However, it’s important to use earplugs in a way that is safe and comfortable. Using earplugs that are too small or too large for your ear can cause irritation or pressure, and using earplugs that are too tight can potentially damage the ear drum. It’s also important to clean earplugs regularly and replace them when they become worn or damaged, as dirty or damaged earplugs can harbor bacteria or other contaminants that can cause infection.
Do foam or silicone ear plugs work better?
Both foam and silicone earplugs can be effective at blocking out noise and helping you sleep more soundly. The best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
Foam earplugs are made from soft, spongy material that expands to fill the ear canal when inserted. They are typically more affordable than silicone earplugs and are easy to find at most stores. Foam earplugs are also disposable, so you can throw them away after a single use. However, some people find that foam earplugs can be less comfortable than silicone earplugs, particularly if they are inserted too deeply or left in for a long period of time.
Silicone earplugs are made from a softer, more pliable material that is hypoallergenic and resistant to bacteria. They are typically more expensive than foam earplugs, but they are also more durable and can be reused multiple times. Silicone earplugs are often more comfortable than foam earplugs, as they conform to the shape of the ear and create a better seal. However, they can be more difficult to insert and remove, and they may not work as well for people with very small or very large ear canals.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It may be helpful to try out both types of earplugs to see which ones work best for you.
How to take care of earplugs?
To keep your earplugs in good condition and ensure that they continue to provide effective noise blocking and comfort, it’s important to take proper care of them. Here are a few tips for taking care of earplugs:
- Keep them clean: Earplugs can accumulate dirt, sweat, and other contaminants over time, so it’s important to clean them regularly. To clean foam earplugs, gently wash them with soap and water and allow them to air dry. To clean silicone earplugs, use a mild soap and water or a gentle cleaning solution designed for silicone. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the earplugs.
- Store them properly: Proper storage can help extend the life of your earplugs. Avoid storing earplugs in humid or moist environments, as this can cause them to become moldy or disintegrate. Instead, store earplugs in a dry, cool place, such as a case or a drawer.
- Replace them when necessary: Foam earplugs should be replaced after a single use, as they can become dirty or damaged over time. Silicone earplugs can be used multiple times, but they should be replaced if they become dirty, torn, or otherwise damaged.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Each brand and type of earplugs may have specific care instructions, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and storing your earplugs.
20 Best Sleeping Earplugs
Up & Up Sleeping Foam Earplugs
4
4/5
$4 at Target
These earplugs are specially designed for bedtime use and are made with a softer, more pliable foam material than traditional earplugs. If you’re looking for earplugs that are particularly comfortable and gentle on the ear, these lavender earplugs may be a good option to consider.
Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs
4.6
4.6/5
$5 at Walmart
If you’re a side sleeper who needs earplugs, Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Ear Plugs may be the best choice for you. These earplugs are made of soft, fully moldable silicone that conforms to your ear opening and creates an airtight seal to block out noise. They are designed specifically to be comfortable and effective for side sleepers.
Anbow Ear Plugs (Set of 3)
4.2
4.2/5
$8 at Amazon
If you’re looking for an affordable and effective option, these best-selling silicone earplugs may be worth considering. They are BPA-free and come in a set of three, each with its own small carrying case. The earplugs are easy to use and provide a comfortable, snug fit, according to over 16,000 Amazon reviewers. One shopper even notes that the earplugs are a great choice for those with small ears. The earplugs are reusable and can be washed for long-lasting use. Overall, these earplugs are a great value for the money.
Mack’s Snoozers Silicone Putty Earplugs
4.1
4.1/5
$9 at Amazon
Mack’s earplugs are a popular choice among Night Shift workers and light sleepers, as well as anyone who needs to fall asleep quickly. These earplugs are made of moldable putty and are designed to be replaced frequently. They require careful insertion, but the brand’s hundreds of positive Amazon reviews suggest they are reliable and easy to use when used safely. Customers rave about the earplugs’ effectiveness in helping them get a good night’s sleep.
Ohropax Wax Earplugs
4.2
4.2/5
$9 at Amazon
These earplugs are made of wax with a soft cotton wool covering, providing a comfortable and effective way to seal off your ear openings from loud noises. They come in a convenient carrying case, making them a good choice for travel. If you need earplugs that are comfortable to wear and easy to take with you on the go, these earplugs may be a good option to consider.
Lysian Soft Moldable Silicone Earplugs (Set of 5)
4.2
4.2/5
$9 at Amazon
These earplugs may be worth considering if you’re looking for an affordable option for moldable silicone earplugs. They can be broken and kneaded to fit your ear canal and provide an NRR of up to 27 decibels. These pillowy plugs are also waterproof and airtight, making them a good choice for sleeping and activities like swimming. They are an affordable and effective option for those in need of noise blocking.
Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs
4.2
4.2/5
$10 at Amazon
According to a customer, these best-selling tapered foam earplugs are designed specifically for sensitive ear canals and offer a comfortable fit. The earplugs are not so dense that you can’t hear anything at all, so you won’t miss your alarm. For just $9, you get 50 earplugs, which means you can change them regularly for hygiene purposes and won’t have to worry about losing them. Overall, these earplugs are a great value and can help you sleep more soundly.
Eargasm Squishies (Set of 8)
4.2
4.2/5
$14 at Amazon
Eargasm Squishies are a great choice for those who need to block out moderate levels of noise, such as a snoring partner. These earplugs have a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 22 decibels and are made of moldable silicone, which allows them to fit comfortably in a variety of ear sizes. They are 50% larger than many other earplugs on the market, making them a great option for those with large ear canals. If necessary, the earplugs can easily be torn apart to fit smaller ear canals. In addition to their noise-blocking capabilities, Eargasm Squishies are also waterproof and come with an airtight seal, making them a good choice for use while swimming or showering. The earplugs come in a pack of eight and include a carrying case for easy storage and transport.
Hearos Xtreme Protection Series Ear Plugs
4.2
4.2/5
$15 at Amazon
If your neighbors or family constantly make loud noises that disrupt your sleep, you may need a pair of earplugs to help block out the noise. One option that can be effective in blocking noise is Hearos foam earplugs. These earplugs are designed to block as much noise as possible, up to 32 decibels, by expanding to form a seal once inserted.
Flents Protechs Earplugs for Sleeping
4
4/5
$16 at Walmart
These super-soft foam earplugs have a contoured and moldable shape that can easily compress for insertion, making them very comfortable to wear.
PQ Wax Ear Plugs for Sleep
4
4/5
$17 at Amazon
These wax earplugs may be a good option if you’re looking for customizable earplugs. Simply break them apart to the desired size and insert them into your ears for a comfortable and effective noise-blocking solution. These earplugs offer a simple and convenient way to block out noise and get a good sleep sleep.
Loop Quiet Noise Reduction Earplugs
4.2
4.2/5
$20 at Amazon
For a customizable fit, these popular silicone earplugs are a great choice. They are extremely flexible and come with ear tips in four different sizes, allowing you to choose the best fit for your ear. The main body of the earplugs can be reused, but it’s important to regularly clean or replace the ear tips to ensure optimal hygiene and effectiveness.
ZQuiet Ultimate Earplug Discovery Set
4.4
4.4/5
$30 at ZQuiet
ZQuiet’s earplugs come in a convenient keychain-sized carrying case and include three different sizes of tips, so you can find the right fit for your ear. The earplugs offer attenuation up to 27 decibels and have pull tabs that make them easy to remove. The set includes two types of earplugs: the Flex-Fit, made of hypoallergenic silicone with a straight cone shape and available in two sizes, and the Ergo-Soft, a soft and angled cone made of rubber that comes in one size. The kit also includes a cleaning brush that can reach into all the nooks and crannies of the earplugs for thorough cleaning. If you’re looking for a portable and customizable earplug solution, ZQuiet’s earplugs may be worth considering.
Happy Ears Discovery Pack
4.2
4.2/5
$32 at Happy Ears
Happy Ears is a Swedish brand that offers earplugs that are washable, reusable, and have a short stem, making them suitable for side sleepers. The brand’s Discovery Pack includes every size of Happy Ears earplugs available and comes with a money-back guarantee, making it a great choice for those who are new to using earplugs.
Howard Leight Max Lite Low Pressure Disposable Foam Earplugs
4.7
4.7/5
$34 at Amazon
Howard Leight is a hearing protection brand that offers earplugs for a variety of ear sizes, including these earplugs specifically designed for smaller ears. People with narrow ear canals may have difficulty finding earplugs that fit comfortably for extended periods of time, such as when sleeping. These low-density earplugs gently expand and exert less pressure than other varieties, making them more comfortable for those with smaller ear canals.
Amazfit Zenbuds Smart Sleep Earbuds
3.1
3.1/5
$129 at Amazon
Amazfit’s Zenbuds are a sleek and affordable option for those looking for noise-masking earbuds. In addition to blocking out unwanted noise, these earbuds offer a range of relaxing sounds such as nature-scapes and white noise. The accompanying app can help you track your sleep quality. These earbuds are a smart and streamlined choice for those seeking a combination of noise blocking and relaxation aids.
SoundOff Sleep Noise-Masking Earbuds
4.5
4.5/5
$180 at SoundOff
SoundOff earbuds use noise-masking technology to muffle other sounds and help you sleep better. If you prefer to fall asleep with the help of white noise machines or other ambient sounds, these earbuds may be a good choice for you. They offer eight volume levels of pink noise and fit comfortably and securely around the ears.
Bose Sleepbuds II Wireless Noise Masking Earbuds
3.9
3.9/5
$249 at Amazon
If you want to block out unpleasant background noise and replace it with something more soothing, these Bose earbuds may be a good option for you. While they are more expensive than a bag of foam earplugs, the higher price gets you access to a library of relaxing sleep sounds through the Bose Sleep app. This can be a great feature for those who find it hard to fall asleep due to outside noise or other distractions. Keep in mind that these earbuds are not specifically designed for noise blocking, so they may not offer the same level of noise reduction as traditional earplugs. However, they can be a good option for those who want a combination of noise blocking and relaxation aids.
QuietOn 3 Sleep Earbuds
No Rating Available on QuietOn’s Website
0/5
$276 at QuietOn
QuietOn 3 Sleep Earbuds are a popular choice for those looking for earbuds with active noise-canceling technology. These earbuds use microphone technology to cancel out certain decibels and have moldable foam tips with an NRR of up to 40 decibels, making them effective at blocking out noise such as snoring and airplane noise. The earbuds allow you to switch between hearing and silencing modes, and the charge lasts for up to 28 hours.
Kokoon Nightbuds
3.6
3.6/5
$286 at Amazon
The Kokoon Nightbuds offer more than just noise blocking capabilities – they also play pleasant white noise or nature sounds to mask distracting sounds at night, and track your sleeping patterns using a tiny optical heart rate sensor in one earpiece. Unlike the Amazfit Zenbuds, which only offer noise masking, the Kokoon Nightbuds can also stream audio directly from your phone, allowing you to listen to your own audio content such as audiobooks, podcasts, or music at night. If you’re looking for earbuds that can help you sleep and track your sleep patterns, while also providing the option to stream audio, the Kokoon Nightbuds may be a good choice to consider.
Takeaway
In conclusion, there are many different types of sleeping earplugs available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. From foam and silicone earplugs to earbuds with noise masking or white noise capabilities, there is a wide range of options to choose from. Please take into account your specific needs and preferences when selecting earplugs, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care to ensure that you get the most out of your earplugs and protect your hearing.
