You can eat well, exercise and live a rather healthy lifestyle but if you’re tossing and turning all night, you’re not going to wake up ready to tackle the day.
This is why some people agree that getting a good night’s sleep is essential to you feeling your best.
If you can’t sleep because of a snoring partner or noises from outside your window, you can try sleeping earplugs.
Earplugs are an easy, affordable and effective way to block sounds that are preventing you from falling asleep and staying asleep.
However, there are various types of earplugs on the market including those that fit inside your ear canal while others rest in the outer ear canal.
You can also find earplugs made for different purposes like those that help block sound in noisy work environments, etc.
This can make it slightly;y difficult when choosing the right one for sleeping if you’re not sure what to look for.
Today, we’ll take a look at some of the best earplugs for sleeping available on the market.
5 Best earplugs for sleeping
- NRR: 29
- Material: Foam
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.75 x 4.25 inches
The Flents Quiet Please earplugs are one of the best air plugs for sleeping and come with an NRR of 29.
Low-tech foam air plugs are considered to be one of the most effective types of earplugs.
This is because of the way they fit in your ear.
However, you need to fit them correctly to enjoy the benefits.
The Flents Earplugs are cylindrical with flattened sides and are designed to lay flat inside the opening of the ear.
This makes them far more comfortable for people who sleep on their side.
They are a good option for most ear canal sizes since they are malleable and expandable.
These earplugs are not tapered at one end like most earplugs.
This is why they may provide a more thorough seal when inserted correctly in the ear.
Similar to most foam earplugs, these noise reducing earplugs should only be used once to eliminate the buildup of bacteria.
This particular version comes with 50 pairs of foam earplugs for a very low price.
If you want to take back your sleep, try the Flents Quiet Please Earplugs.
- NRR: 27
- Material: Silicone
- Dimensions: 4 x 3.25 x 1.75 inches
The ZQuiet earplugs are a reusable option that is comfortable and functional.
These noise canceling earplugs feature a three-tier shape and are made from silicone.
The compact design is discrete low profile and easy to use.
it includes a small pull tab that is attached to the sides ask the plug that helps to make removal quick and easy.
These earplugs come with an NRR rating of 27 which means they can reduce ambient sounds, snoring and other noises by up to 27 decibels.
In addition to this, they feature a sonic reduction capsule and a chamber designed to equalize pressure.
These earplugs come with two ear tips of differing sizes so the user can get the right fit.
the pliable silicone and streamlined design allow stomach sleepers, back sleepers and side sleepers to wear them without any discomfort.
The ZQuiet earplugs are hypoallergenic and reusable.
They even come with a protective storage case and a cleaning brush.
This way you can keep your earplugs safe and clean at all times.
- NRR: 22
- Material: Silicone
- Dimensions: 3.98 x 3.86 x 0.67 inches
If comfort is at the top of your list, you will love the Eargasm Squishies.
These air plugs are made from a proprietary silicone material and are designed to mold easily to the shape of your ear.
They come with an NRR of 22 decibels which means that they can help you stay asleep through any ambient noise and snoring.
Although they are available in one size, these earplugs can be easily adjusted.
They are designed to be slightly larger than the average earplug to fit snugly into your ear.
However, if you have a smaller air canal then you can break the squishy in half to get a better fit.
Once the earplugs conform to your ears, they will create an air-tight seal that blocks sounds.
The Eargasm Squichies earplugs are 100% waterproof which means that you can also use them while swimming.
They will be able to stop water from entering your ear canal which may cause issues.
Each package includes 8 pairs of reusable earplugs along with a sealed storage case.
- NRR: 33db
- Material: Foam and silicone tips
- Dimensions: 3.11 x 3.11 x 1.3 inches
Side sleepers often experience pressure buildup around their ears.
This can make it hard to sleep properly at night.
in some instances wearing earplugs can add to this discomfort which makes it even worse.
The HearProtek earplugs are specially designed for side sleepers and offer noise reduction in a comfortable way.
They have an NRR rating of 33db and are perfect for sleep or any other situation where you need silence.
The best earplugs for snoring have a unique shape and are designed to prevent pressure points.
The bullet-shaped ear tips connect to the earplugs wing and the wing fits snugly within your ear’s upper ridge.
Each pack of HearProtek earplugs comes with 2 sets of tips.
One set is made from heat-activated memory foam for better comfort and the other is made from washable silicone so you can wash and reuse.
You can use either one of the sets.
Choose the earplug tips that fit best, feel the most comfortable and block the most noise.
- NRR: 22db
- Material: Silicone
- Dimensions: 5.25 x 3.75 x 1 inches
Putty earplugs are very different from foam earplugs.
These earplugs cover the outer opening of the ear instead of plugging the ear canal.
Some people experience irritation, itchiness and a build-up of pressure with earplugs that go in the ear.
This makes the person even more uncomfortable which can prevent them from getting a good night’s rest
Putty earplugs are far more suitable for people who don’t like earplugs that go inside the ears.
Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty Earplugs have an NRR rating of 22 dB.
These multi-use earplugs are non-toxic, non-allergenic, waterproof.
They can be used to reduce constant background noise and even when swimming to prevent water from getting into your ear.
They can even help to relieve airplane ear pressure and pain that you may experience when flying
These earplugs mold comfortably to the unique contours of the ear for a good fit.
The Mack’s soft silicone putty earplugs provide a far better and more comfortable fit as well as seal than custom-molded earplugs.
Factors to consider when purchasing sleeping earplugs
Choosing the right earplugs for sleeping can be a bit tricky since there are so many variations on the market.
Here are a few factors you need to consider when purchasing sleeping earplugs.
Price
The price of sleep earplugs is determined by the material they’re made up of and their reusability.
If you choose to buy reusable earplugs in bulk, prices can start as low as 25 cents per pair.
Reusable pairs usually fall somewhere around $10 each.
However, you’ll find technologically advanced earplugs and noise-canceling devices costing a whole lot more.
The best value earplugs for you will depend on how and when you plan to use them.
If you need to use them every night and have no problem keeping them clean, reusable earplugs are going to be the best.
These will save you money in the long term.
The ongoing cost of disposable earplugs can add up over time.
However, if you don’t need to use earplugs every night or you don’t have the time to clean them between uses, disposable earplugs are the way to go.
Reusable vs single-use
Some earplugs are to be used once only and others are designed to be reused.
Disposable one-time use earplugs are usually made up of less durable materials so that they can be more affordable.
They are far more convenient since you can throw them away after using them instead of cleaning them.
On the other hand, reusable earplugs are made up of durable materials to last for a long while.
Reusable earplugs need to be cleaned regularly which some people may not be up for.
However, they produce less waste and can save you money in the long run.
Materials
Earplugs are made up of various materials including foam, silicone, wax and latex.
Foam is one of the most common and affordable options.
Silicone models rest at the entrance of the ear and do not penetrate the ear canal much.
Some people find that wax earplugs are the most effective but they tend to cost more even though they are meant for single use.
Some earplugs may contain latex so look out for this if you have a latex allergy.
Noise reduction
The level of noise reduction is measured by Noise Reduction Rating(NRR).
The NRR indicates how many decibels(dB) the earplugs are capable of blocking out.
The higher the number, the more noise reduction.
Earplugs usually have an NRR between 22 dB to 33 dB.
Choose earplugs with an NRR depending on your needs and how loud the sounds are in your bedroom.
Comfort
Comfort is crucial especially if you use them for sleeping.
Several factors contribute to how comfortable the earplugs feel.
These include the materials, size and shape.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to anticipate the way a specific earplug will feel.
Finding an ideal pair may be a matter of trial and error.
Benefits of using sleep earplugs
Earplugs can help to improve the quality of sleep. For many, they are the only way to block unwanted sounds while they sleep. This may include noise from outside the home or noise from inside like a snoring partner.
The quality of sleep, as well as the amount you get, is important to your health. You need to let your body rest after a full day so it can tackle the new day. Earplugs not only help you sleep better but may also minimize the risk of any other health issues that may occur due to low-quality sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to sleep with earplugs?
Earplugs are safe when you use them as directed.
However, there are a few potential risks when using earplugs.
Regular use of earplugs may contribute o earwax buildup which may cause dizziness, tinnitus, itchy ears and hearing difficulties.
Pushing an earplug too far in your ear or removing it too quickly may create some issues and can damage the ear canal.
Muffling sounds is the main reason for wearing earplugs but it can have drawbacks.
You may miss an alarm or not hear your child crying, etc.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reduce some of the potential risks when wearing earplugs.
Try to wash your hands before inserting and removing, keep your ears and the earplugs clean and dispose of them properly.
If you have an underlying condition or experience any pain and discomfort, talk to your doctor before trying to use earplugs.
Is it bad to sleep with earplugs every night?
It is safe to sleep with earplugs every night but you need to follow all the instructions mentioned on the package.
If not, improper use can lead to potential risk and damage to your ear canal.
What is Noise Reduction Rating(NRR)?
The Noise Reduction Rating(NRR) is the unit of measurement used to tell how many decibels(dB) of sounds earplugs can block out.
A higher NRR rating means that the earplugs should be able to block out more sounds.
Do earplugs block out snoring?
When worn correctly, earplugs can block or significantly reduce the sound of snoring.
However, if you have a partner that snores extra loud and your earplugs NRR is low, you may still hear some sounds.
What else can I do to sleep better at night?
Earplugs are one of the most affordable and effective ways to reduce nighttime noise.
However, several options can help you sleep better.
You can try noise-canceling headphones, ear muffs for sleeping, sound apps, white noise machines, fans or try soundproofing your room.
There are several headphones for sleeping.
Some rest in the ear and others rest on the outside.
Some sleep masks and pillows have built-in speakers.
This gives users a chance to listen to music or sounds without using conventional headphones.
White noise machines produce consistent background noise like running water or radio static that drowns out other sounds.
A fan has a similar effect.
Read this how do noise cancelling headphones work post as well as this how to soundproof a room post.
Conclusion
Sounds in and around your home can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep.
This can cause you to not feel your best and may be detrimental to your health.
One way to tackle this issue is to try using earplugs.
Earplugs are inexpensive and effective in reducing the amount of noise you hear while sleeping.
You’ll find various types of earplugs on the market made from different materials.
They each have a different Noise Reduction Rating(NRR) which indicates how many decibels(dB) of sound they can block out.
If you do choose to use earplugs, follow all the instructions on the package to ensure you use them correctly.