Everyone suffers from a bad night’s sleep from time to time, but for some people, it’s a constant struggle to fall asleep and stay there.
We’ve all heard the advice from the pros like avoiding technology before bed, regular exercise, white noise machines and not eating within two hours of bed. But there’s one option worth trying that might do the trick – a pair of sleep headphones.
Why use sleep headphones?
- They can help block out distracting noise like traffic in busy areas or the TV in the next room
- If racing thoughts keep you awake at night, a pair of sleep headphones can help you channel your thoughts to relax and unwind while listening to music or sleep sounds. This can also help promote the release of dopamine and lower cortisol levels
- They are actually more comfortable than they sound with lots of padded options for added comfort
- Listening to relaxing music before bed can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure
With all that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best sleep headphones and earphones on the market so you can stop counting sheep.
NOTE: Prices are correct at time of publication.
The best headphones for sleep
AcousticSheep sleep phones
AcousticSheep SleepPhones are headband-style sleep headphones built with flat speakers and a fleece fabric that’s stretchy and moisture-wicking for added comfort. Available in small, medium and large, you’ll get up to 24 hours of power per charge – getting you through two nights and then some. Buy your pair today in one of five colors.
The best sleep headphones
Soundcore from Anker Sleep A20 headphones
Extremely advanced and intuitive, the Sleep A20 headphones block out passive noise with smart controls that automatically adjust to room sound levels. You will have up to 14 hours of energy.
By connecting to the Soundcore app, you can create your own sleep playlist and curate and customize your listening settings. The app can also provide sleep analysis and details on time spent awake, including how often you roll over and what position you mainly sleep in.
READ MORE: Our honest thoughts on the Soundcore open-ear headphones
The best headphone and sleep mask combos
Headphones and sleeping mask LC-Dolida
These headphones have a memory foam interior and a silk lining and offer up to 10 hours of power after two hours of charging. They can sit comfortably around the nose to block light with flat speakers on either side. One buyer says the speakers “are so comfortable you literally can’t feel them.”
The best light-blocking sleep headphones
SleepEZ Dreamy Sounds Sleep Mask
This SleepEZ Dreamy Sounds Sleep Mask contours around the eyes and bridge of the nose using memory foam cushioning. With up to 15 hours of power, you can pair them with the SleepEz app to play music as well as white noise, podcasts and audiobooks. You can adjust the positioning of the speakers to get the best sound quality and set a timer to turn off after an hour or two.
Renpho EyeSnooze Sleeping Mask
Renpho EyeSnooze uses 3D eye pads that sit around the eyes and prevent any light from entering. The mask is covered in suede and silk and the earcups and memory foam inside can be moved to suit your sleeping position and comfort.
With up to 10 hours of power, you can use these headphones without a timer or schedule a shutdown after 30 minutes. You can choose to play white noise or a specific playlist when you connect to your device via Bluetooth.
READ MORE: Save on self-care with these deals made to help you relax
The best hi-tech sleep headphones
HomeBand
This adjustable elastic sleep band connects to your device so you can access Apple Music, Spotify, Soundcloud, Mediatopia and Audible. If you choose to use the Hoom app, you can listen to stories, music tracks and relaxing sounds that have been curated by sleep experts just for you. It has up to 10 hours of power per charge and you can listen to the sound in the app even when you are disconnected from the Internet.
Affordable sleep headphones
MUSICOZY sleep headphones
With a six-layer design, the MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones use cotton and velvet to sit comfortably on your face and around your nose to block out light. Its HD speaker system has rave reviews with one buyer saying “The speakers can be adjusted back and forth so they sit over your ears” and have “enough padding so I can sleep on my side and they don’t press on my ears or cause any discomfort.”
Best for side sleepers
1 MORE Sleep Z30 Wireless Headphones
The 1MORE Sleep Z30 earphones weigh 2.7g each and are only 7.5mm, so they won’t fall out of your ears or become uncomfortable when lying on either side. When you connect to the 1MORE MUSIC app, you can choose from two listening modes and listen to 30 different soothing sounds. You can also set five timers that will stop the music when it detects you’ve fallen asleep.
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