The 7 Best Earplugs For Sleeping: Your Rest’s Greatest Ally (2024)

Let’s face it, our world is constantly noisy. From city life to snoring partners, getting a good night’s sleep can feel impossible. I’ve been there, tossing and turning, desperate for peace.

That’s when I discovered sleep earplugs – a game-changer that let me control my nighttime soundscape. But not all earplugs are equal.

Whether you’re a light sleeper or battling noisy neighbors, finding the best sleep earplugs can be life-changing. The right pair can transform your mornings from groggy to great.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best earplugs for sleeping, from disposable foam to reusable silicone options.

I’ve done the research to help you find your perfect match for peaceful nights and refreshed mornings.

Improving sleep is only a good thing for many reasons – it can help keep you young and build muscle – the benefits of sleep are numerous.

There are many tools to help optimize sleep including eye masks, and things like social media get in the way of it. Even what and when you eat and drink can have an impact.

Why Wearing Earplugs for Sleep Matters

You know, I used to think I was just a “light sleeper.” Turns out, I was just swimming in a sea of noise every night without realizing it. Let me tell you, discovering the importance of wearing earplugs for sleep was like finding the holy grail of shut-eye.

The Sneaky Impact of Noise on Sleep Quality

Here’s the thing… our ears never really “turn off,” even when we’re snoozing. My wife’s a night owl, when I’m winding down she amping up and conspiring against my precious REM cycles.

We had many arguments about it until I realized that unless I wanted a divorce I had to figure out another solution… earplugs to the rescue (and eye masks for her insistence on turning on lights).

Anyway, studies show that ambient noise as low as 40 decibels can mess with our sleep stages. That’s about as loud as a quiet library!

No wonder I was waking up feeling like I’d been hit by a truck – I was missing out on a good night’s sleep.

Health Benefits That’ll Make You Want to Plug Up

Once I started consistently using earplugs for sleeping, my body breathed a sigh of relief.

Here are some noticeable perks I’ve experienced:

• Better mood (goodbye, grumpy mornings!)
• Improved concentration during the day
• Lower stress levels
• Less tired… go figure!

And get this: wearing earplugs can even help with weight management. Turns out, poor sleep messes with our hunger hormones. Who knew?

How Earplugs Can Boost Your Overall Well-being

Look, getting a good night’s sleep isn’t just about feeling less zombie-like in the morning. It’s about giving your body the time it needs to repair, recharge, and keep you firing on all cylinders.

The Ripple Effect of Quality Sleep

When I started using earplugs regularly, I noticed improvements in areas I hadn’t even considered:

1. My skin looked clearer (beauty sleep is real, folks!)
2. My workouts felt more effective
3. I had more patience with my wife and kid… I literally became a better husband and father.

It’s like wearing earplugs created this positive domino effect in my life. Sure, they’re not magic bullets, but they’re pretty darn close when it comes to improving sleep quality.

So, I’ve piqued your interest… before we dive into the best earplugs for sleeping, let’s take a quick look at the type of earplugs on offer.

Types of Sleep Earplugs

When I first started my quest for the perfect sleep earplugs, I felt like a kid in a candy store. So many options!

But let me tell you, not all earplugs are created equal. I’ve tried ’em all, and I’m here to share the good, the bad, and the downright uncomfortable.

Foam Earplugs

Ah, foam earplugs. My first experience of these disposable earplugs are from working in the construction industry. There were earplug dispensers dotted around the factory especially near loud machinery.

These little squishies were my gateway into the world of sleep silence.

Benefits of Foam Earplugs:

• Super affordable (great for us budget-conscious sleepers)
• Excellent noise reduction
• Easy to insert once you get the hang of it

Silicone Earplugs

Once I discovered reusable silicone earplugs, it was like upgrading from a bicycle to a Tesla.

Benefits of Silicone Earplugs for Sleeping:

• Mold perfectly to your ear shape (it’s like they were made just for you!)
• Reusable and easy to clean (hello, cost-effective option)
• Great for side sleepers (no more ear pain, hallelujah!)

Wax Earplugs

Wax earplugs were a bit of a wild card for me, but they’ve got some unique perks.

Benefits of Wax Earplugs:

• Mold perfectly to your ear shape
• Great for swimming too (multi-purpose for the win!)
• Surprisingly comfortable once you get used to them

Loop Earplugs

Loop earplugs – I’ve not personally tried them… yet. But I’ve heard lots about them so I’ll be investing in a pair soon.

Loop earplugs are designed to fit snugly in your ear, with a unique loop shape that makes them easy to insert and remove. Plus, they look pretty cool – like ear jewelry!

The benefits of Loop Earplugs:

• Are easier to insert and remove (no more fumbling in the dark!)
• Look more stylish (if you care about that sort of thing)
• Offer different models for various needs (sleep, music, work, etc.)

The downside? They’re pricier than your average foam plugs. But in my book, the comfort and durability make them worth every penny.

Top 7 Best Earplugs for Sleeping in 2024

Ok, so the bit you’ve been waiting for… let’s get into the nitty-gritty and present to you the best earplugs on the market. I’ve selected a range of types for you to select based on your personal needs.

1. Best Overall: Flare Audio – Sleeep

Flare Audio is a UK-based audio technology company known for its innovative approach to sound. Founded by Davies Roberts, the company has been pushing the boundaries of audio experience since its inception.

Flare Audio’s product range extends beyond earplugs to include earphones and other audio devices.

Their Sleeep earplugs showcase their commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with user comfort, especially catering to the needs of side sleepers.

Product Features:

• Super-soft memory foam tip
• Slim durable stem
• Available in single or dual-tip designs
• Transparent finish for a discreet look
• Comes with replaceable foam tips

Key Benefits:

• Designed specifically for side sleepers
• Molds to the shape of your ear canal for a perfect fit
• Excellent for reducing noises like snoring, traffic, and noisy neighbors
• Easy to insert and remove
• Comfortable for all-night wear

Cost:

$12.95 USD for a single pair

Shipping Info:

Free shipping.

2. Best Reusable: Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs

Loop was founded in 2016 with a mission to create innovative hearing protection that combines style with functionality.

The company’s unique loop-shaped earplugs were designed to be both effective and aesthetically pleasing, challenging the notion that hearing protection can’t be fashionable.

Loop offers a range of products for different needs, from sleep to music concerts, and has quickly gained popularity for its innovative approach to earplug design.

Product Features:

• Unique loop design
• Made from flexible silicone
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 24 dB (SNR)
• Comes with 4 ear tip sizes (XS, S, M, L)
• Includes a convenient carry case

Key Benefits:

• Reusable and long-lasting
• Excellent for sleep, focus, travel, and noise sensitivity
• Comfortable for side sleepers
• Easy to insert and remove
• Stylish look for daytime use

Cost:

$27.95 on Amazon (or $24.95 directly from Loop)

Shipping Info:

Free shipping with Prime on Amazon. Loop offers free shipping on orders over $44 in the United States.

Personal Take:

These are the upgraded version of their loop quiet earplugs which were one of the best-selling earplugs on the market. With their new and improved fit and performance, these are well worth your consideration. Plus, they look pretty cool too.

Pros:

• Extremely comfortable, even for side sleepers
• Excellent noise reduction without total sound isolation
• Durable and long-lasting
• Multiple sizes ensure a perfect fit
• Stylish design

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to disposable options

3. Best Eco-Friendly: Happy Ears Earplugs

Happy Ears is a Swedish company that has been designing and manufacturing eco friendly earplugs since 2010. The company was founded with a focus on creating eco-friendly, reusable earplugs that don’t compromise comfort or effectiveness.

Happy Ears prides itself on its sustainable approach, offering earplugs in three sizes to ensure a perfect fit for all users. The company has helped over a million customers sleep better with their innovative, environmentally conscious products.

Product Features:

• Made from non-toxic, recyclable materials
• Reusable for months with proper care
• Available in three sizes (small, medium, large)
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 25 dB
• Unique oval shape for better fit
• Short soft stem design

Key Benefits:

• Environmentally friendly
• Long-lasting, reducing waste
• Comfortable for side sleepers
• Effective noise reduction for better sleep
• Hypoallergenic and skin-friendly

Cost:

$36.50 for a single pair

Shipping Info:

Free shipping on orders over $50 in the US. International shipping is available.

4. Best Budget: Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs

Mack’s has been a family-owned business since 1962. It all started when Raymond Benner, a symphony orchestra musician, purchased a small earplug company.

Benner improved the original clay mixture, inventing the world’s first moldable silicone earplugs.

Product Features:

• Made of moldable silicone
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22 decibels
• Waterproof
• 6 pairs per pack
• Safe for use with ear tubes

Key Benefits:

• Molds perfectly to the unique contours of any ear
• Great for sleeping, snoring, studying, and even swimming
• Helps prevent swimmer’s ear
• Provides a safer, non-toxic alternative to foam earplugs

Cost:

$6.99 for a pack of 6 pairs on Amazon

Shipping Info:

Free shipping with Prime on Amazon. For non-Prime members, it’s usually around $4.99, or free if you hit that $25 minimum.

5. Best for Small Ears: Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs

So good, Mack’s feature twice. What more to say?

Well, Mack’s is the #1 doctor-recommended brand for preventing ear infections and blocking water.

The company operates out of a state-of-the-art facility in Michigan, continuing to innovate and expand its product line under the leadership of Raymond’s sons, Devin and Pete Benner.

Product Features:

• Made of soft foam
• Designed about 20% smaller than standard earplugs
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 29 decibels
• 50 pairs per pack
• Tapered shape for easy insertion and removal

Key Benefits:

• Perfect for those with small or sensitive ear canals
• Provides maximum comfort for extended wear
• Great for sleeping, studying, and travel
• Blocks out snoring, traffic noise, and other sleep disruptors

Cost:

$14.99 for a pack of 50 pairs on Amazon

Shipping Info:

Free shipping with Prime on Amazon. For non-Prime members, standard shipping rates apply, but it’s usually free if you meet the minimum purchase amount.

6. Best for Noise Reduction: Eargasm Squishes

Eargasm was founded in 2015 by Ryan Parry with a mission to revolutionize hearing protection. The company started with their High Fidelity Earplugs and has since expanded to offer a wide range of hearing protection products for various needs.

Eargasm is known for its presence at music festivals and trade shows, actively promoting the importance of hearing protection.

The company prides itself on innovation and customer-focused product development, aiming to be the premier destination for hearing protection.

Product Features:

• Made from proprietary moldable silicone
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22 dB
• Waterproof and airtight seal
• 8 pairs included per pack
• Comes with a sealed carrying case

Key Benefits:

• Exceptional noise cancelling capabilities
• Conforms to any ear shape for a custom fit
• Multipurpose: great for sleeping, working, studying, and swimming
• Larger size than competing brands for better coverage
• Can be broken into smaller pieces for smaller ear canals

Cost:

At $15.95 for 8 pairs on Amazon

Shipping Info:

Free shipping with Prime on Amazon. Standard shipping rates apply for non-Prime members.

7. Best Moldable: Ohropax Wax Ear Plugs

Ohropax is a German company with over 110 years of tradition in silence and hearing protection. Founded in the early 20th century, the company was inspired by the legend of Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey.

Ohropax has been a family-owned business throughout its history, maintaining high-quality standards and ISO certification.

They produce their products in Wehrheim, Germany, and have expanded their range to include various types of earplugs and even sleeping masks.

Product Features:

• Made from a blend of cotton wool and petroleum jelly-based wax
• Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of approximately 23 dB
• 12 pairs per pack
• Moldable to fit any ear shape
• Cotton carrying case included

Key Benefits:

• Exceptionally moldable for a custom fit
• Great for sleeping, studying, and swimming
• Effective at blocking out a wide range of noises
• Comfortable for extended wear
• Can be reused several times with proper care

Cost:

At $6.97 for 12 pairs on Amazon

Shipping Info:

Free shipping with Prime on Amazon. Standard shipping rates apply for non-Prime members.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Earplugs for Sleeping

Right, let’s get down to brass tacks. Choosing the right earplugs for sleeping isn’t just about grabbing the first pack you see at the drugstore. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after a week of restless nights and sore ears. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)

First things first: how much quiet do you need? The NRR is your best friend here. It tells you how many decibels the earplugs can block out.

If you sleep in a noisy environment then finding earplugs with higher NRR is your priority. My wife likes to vacuum at night – we’ve had numerous arguments over her nighttime activities – the solution was to find some high NRR earplugs.

Comfort and Fit for Your Ear Canal

Here’s a fun fact: ear canals are like fingerprints – no two are exactly alike. What fits your bestie like a glove might feel like shoving a square peg in a round hole for you.

Material Preferences (Foam, Silicone, Wax)

This is where things get personal. Each material has its pros and cons:

• Foam: Great for noise reduction, but can get a bit gross after a few uses.
• Silicone: Comfy, reusable, and great for side sleepers.
• Wax: Molds perfectly to your ear, but can be a bit tricky to use at first.

I’d recommend trying out each type to see what floats your boat.

Sleeping Position (Side Sleepers vs. Back Sleepers)

Are you a side sleeper? Join the club! We’ve got jackets. And ear pain from poorly chosen earplugs.

Side sleepers need earplugs that don’t stick out too much, or you’ll wake up feeling like you’ve gone ten rounds with Mike Tyson.

I’ve found that lower profile options like Loop Quiet or custom-molded plugs work best.

Back sleepers have it easier – most earplugs will do the trick. Lucky ducks.

Eco-friendliness and Sustainability

Look, I’m no Captain Planet, but I do try to do my part. If you’re eco-conscious, consider reusable options or biodegradable disposables. Every little bit helps, right?

Some brands, like Happy Ears, are even making earplugs from recycled ocean plastics. How cool is that?

Price and Value for Money

I’ve covered all price ranges here so cost shouldn’t be an issue.

To state the obvious, disposable foam earplugs might seem like a cheap option but over time will cost you more.

My suggestion if you’re a newbie to the earplug world, try some disposables first then if you think earplugs are for you, upgrade to a reusable type.

How to Properly Use and Care for Your Earplugs

I was gonna write a whole section here but in the end, I realized it’s boring and you’re probably not going to read it anyways.

You’re sticking something into your ear canal, so hopefully, common sense will prevail. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and if you’re using them again, give em’ a clean-up.

Common Concerns About Wearing Earplugs for Sleep

Let’s face it, the idea of plugging up your ears while you’re unconscious can seem a bit… well, unsettling.

I get it. When I first started using earplugs for sleeping, I had more questions than a toddler at bedtime. So, let’s dive into some of the common concerns that might be keeping you up at night.

Addressing Safety Concerns

First things first: are earplugs safe? Short answer: yes, when used correctly. Long answer: like anything you stick in your ear, there are some things to watch out for.

I remember the first time I used earplugs, I jammed them in so far I was worried I’d need tweezers to get them out. Rookie mistake! The key is to insert them just enough to create a seal, not to break your personal best for “deepest earplug insertion.”

Can You Hear Important Sounds While Wearing Earplugs?

This was my biggest worry when I started to wear earplugs. What if there’s a fire? What if my kids need me? What if aliens invade and I sleep through the whole thing?

Here’s the deal: most earplugs don’t completely block out all sound. They reduce noise, but you can still hear loud noises like alarms or crying children. It’s kind of like turning down the volume on the world, not hitting mute.

Potential Risks and How to Mitigate Them

Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: ear infections. Yes, they can happen if you’re not careful with your earplugs. But don’t panic! It’s not a guarantee, and there are ways to prevent it.

Ear Infection Prevention 101:

1. Keep your earplugs clean (seriously, this is crucial)
2. Don’t share earplugs (I don’t care how much you love your partner)
3. Give your ears a break sometimes (let them breathe!)

Another potential risk is earwax buildup. Turns out, shoving something in your ear every night can mess with your ear’s natural cleaning process. Who knew?

To avoid this:

1. Clean your ears regularly (but please, for the love of all things audiological, don’t use Q-tips)
2. Consider using earplugs with lower noise reduction ratings for less blockage
3. Take breaks from using earplugs when you can

Conclusion

If your sleep is being disturbed by sounds – whether from a loud night owl partner or living in a bustling city with the backdrop of sirens and shouting – earplugs could very well be the answer to your sleep woes.

My biggest tip through experience is to try a few types and see how you get on. It takes a little time to get used to anything being in your ears at first so persevere – don’t ditch them after one night.

Trust me, you do get used to it and before long you’ll feel weird if you don’t have them in.

Obviously, you’re putting things in your ear canal, so adopt some common sense hygiene here. But other than that… give them a go.

Sleep is probably the single most important thing you can do to regain and maintain health. think about it… if you ate junk, didn’t exercise, or didn’t sleep for 48 hours, which one would have the most dramatic effect on your health?

Sleep is so important we must do it every night otherwise it has massive negative impacts on our health. I’ve written plenty about the health benefits of sleep.

So anything you can do to get more and improve your sleep. So, do it… Plug up!

And that’s it… Have a restful sleep.

FAQs

What are the most effective earplugs for sleeping?

The most effective earplugs for sleeping vary depending on individual needs. However, foam earplugs like Mack’s Slim Fit often provide excellent noise reduction. For reusable options, silicone earplugs like Loop Quiet 2 offer comfort and effectiveness for most sleepers.

Is it OK to sleep with earplugs every night?

Generally, it’s safe to sleep with earplugs every night. However, it’s important to maintain proper hygiene, replace disposable earplugs regularly, and clean reusable ones. Give your ears occasional breaks to prevent wax buildup and potential ear canal irritation.

What earplugs block the most sound?

Foam earplugs typically block the most sound, with some offering Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) up to 33 decibels. Eargasm Squishes, while made of silicone, are also excellent for noise reduction. Custom-molded earplugs can provide superior sound blocking for some users.

What earplugs are best for side sleepers?

Side sleepers often find low-profile earplugs most comfortable. Flare Audio’s Sleeep earplugs are specifically designed for side sleepers. Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs and Happy Ears Earplugs are also great options, as they don’t protrude from the ear.