When it comes to sleeping we can all agree that it's pretty important. Whether you need six or eight hours is up to you, but we all definitely need it, sleep is the ultimate form of rest and restorative treatment, and using earplugs can help you stay sound asleep.
There's nothing worse than having to work a long day on very little sleep, you'll be tired, not fully focused, and most likely guzzling caffeine.
In fact, it's not just that you're overly cranky when you don't sleep, according to the NHS, lack of sleep can lead to serious medical conditions. These include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even heart disease.
Often, our lack of sleep can be put down to a number of things, such as early construction works, noisy neighbours, or street noise. If you can't keep the noise out, or it's too close, such as snoring partners, a pair of earplugs can truly help.
This is why we've rounded up the best earplugs on the market right now. So you can get your full six, seven, eight or even ten hours of sleep in peace.
The best earplugs for peaceful sleeping
Editor's pick
These earplugs are designed as a u2018noise reductionu2019 solution for anyone needing to block out unwanted noise. They can reduce background noise by 38 decibels, which can activate REM sleep. Once placed inside the ear canal, the earplug forms an expansion seal, you can also adjust the fit by rolling and moulding the material.
Specs
Hypoallergenic
BPA-free
Case included
30 pairs
30-night trial
Review:
"Bought this product for my fiancé who works night shifts and struggles to sleep in the daytime. It turns out that I actually use the earplugs more than him because he snores so loudly. Brilliant product and would recommend to any poor person who has to put up with a snoring partner."
Recommended
These Soundbloc earplugs are made from high-quality silicone and are extremely comfortable. With six pairs, they should last you a whole year, replacing each pair with a new one every two months. They reduce noise by 27 decibels and the company has over ten years of experience in the field.
Specs
Hypoallergenic
Non-toxic
BPA-free
One-year’s supply
Storage case
Bonus wellbeing guide
Review:
"I never thought I’d be one of those people that review earplugs, in fact, I rarely review anything I buy, but these deserve a fabulous review. I’ve used earplugs for years as I’m such a light sleeper and over the years I have tried every possible type going. I got these last week, and since using them, I’ve had the best night sleep in a very long time. They mould perfectly to the ear and create a perfect soundproof seal."
Best eco-friendly earplugs
www.happyears.co
A very eco-friendly product, these Happy Ears earplugs are made from 100 per cent recycled plastic and they also can reduce volume by 25 decibels. In terms of cleaning, this product will require cleaning with rubbing alcohol or soap and warm water.
Specs
Made from 100 per cent recycled ABS and TPE plastics
Versatile case included
Packaging is compostable
Should last a year or longer
Review:
"I bought this product a month ago and have been thrilled with the result. I’ve worn traditional earplugs for sleeping for many years. In the last year, they started cutting the inside of my ears, so I had to stop using them. I found Happy Ears earplugs, and they saved my ears and my sleep! The fit is comfortable, and the material is gentle on my ears."
Best earplugs for noise reduction
With an impressive noise reduction rate of 32 decibels, these earplugs are the highest rated reusable earplugs for noise-cancelling on our roundup. Theyu2019re made from ultra-soft silicone and have a customisable shape that adjusts to your ear.
Specs:
Five pairs
Case included
Review:
"These are the best earplugs for sleeping I've ever used. Not hyperbole. It's true. I've tried a lot of different earplugs. Everything from the cheap and disposable spongey things commonly used on flights, to wax-like plugs for swimming. These silicone moldable earplugs beat them all by a country mile."
If you don't want to wear earplugs you could always consider a sleep mask. Some sleep masks will also cover your ears, which, while they won't reduce much noise, may still help you get a restful nights sleep. Although this mask is lightweight it can still block out light and some noise.
FAQs:
Is it safe to wear earplugs whilst sleeping?
If you use them for a long period of time, earplugs can cause a bit of a build-up of earwax, as they push it back into your ear. If you do intend to use earplugs for a prolonged period of time, make sure you have ear drops on hand to reduce any build-up.
For hygienic purposes, you'll also want to make sure you regularly replace your earplugs.
How much should I spend on earplugs?
Our roundup has included a pretty wide range of products, but they all have similar price tags, essentially you can expect to spend around a tenner for a great pair of earplugs.
What to read next?
Isabel Martins is a Commercial Content Writer for What's The Best, specialising in technology.
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