When was the last time you had a good night’s sleep? Maybe it was last weekend or over the holidays. Perhaps it was before you had kids, relocated to a busy city, or moved in with a snorer. As an audiologist, the sleep topic comes up in conversation more often than you might think.
While the odd turbulent night might leave you feeling groggy and ill-prepared for the day ahead, chronic sleep deprivation over a long period can have serious adverse effects on both your physical and mental health - not mention the impact for tinnitus sufferers.
If you’re reading this while bleary-eyed and drinking your fifth coffee of the day, or perhaps at 3 AM while your partner snores like a human jackhammer beside you, this might sound quite scary.
Well, never fear – a decent night’s sleep may well be just around the corner.
This article features a range of shapes, sizes, materials, and technologies to give you a comprehensive look at what is leading the market in earbuds for sleep.
Let's get into this.
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
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- 2,000,000 people shopped on Soundly in 2024
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Read more about our company, services and process here.
- There’s no one-size-fits-all earplug – from foam to fully custom-molded, the best choice depends on your comfort needs, sleep style, and environment.
- Side sleepers benefit from soft, low-profile options – reusable plugs like Loop Dream or Philips Kokoon are shaped to reduce pressure during the night.
- Digital sleep earbuds offer more than silence – models like Ozlo and Kokoon combine passive noise blocking with soothing soundscapes and sleep tracking.
- Disposable earplugs still hold their own – budget-friendly classics like Mack’s provide solid noise reduction for light sleepers or those new to earplugs.
- Your ideal earplug balances fit, comfort, and function – whether you need all-night wear, high noise reduction, or wireless features, there’s a solution that fits.
- 50+ hearing aid brands reviewed and rated by our team of hearing aid wearers and audiologists
- 200+ hours each month spent researching brands and care options
- 2,000,000 people shopped on Soundly in 2024
- 100% independently owned and operated
Read more about our company, services and process here.
Featured in this article
The following list combines old favorites with cutting-edge technology and prioritizes comfort to help you find the very best earplugs for your perfect night’s sleep.
Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs
Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs
- Comfortable Fit: Low-pressure foam expands to your ear shape for long-wear comfort.
- Effective Noise Blocking: Reduces noise by up to 33 dB, making it suitable for loud environments or snoring.
- Doctor Recommended: Frequently used and recommended by healthcare professionals for sleep and hearing protection.
- Portable & Convenient: Comes in a safety-sealed jar with a flip-top lid for easy storage and dispensing.
Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs stand out as a straightforward, low-cost option for consistent noise reduction across everyday settings like sleep, travel, or study. Designed for comfort and reliability, they offer solid performance without frills.
- The Comfy Cush Comfort Foam applies minimal pressure and gently expands in the ear, making it suitable for extended wear, even for side sleepers or those with sensitive ears.
- With a high 33 dB Noise Reduction Rating, these earplugs help limit exposure to disruptive noise, making them a practical choice for blocking out snoring, traffic, or loud environments.
Made in the USA and widely recommended by doctors, Mack’s offers a dependable option for anyone seeking quiet without complication.
- Reliable Noise Reduction: Many users report a noticeable drop in disruptive sounds, from snoring to city noise, making them a go-to for sleep and focus.
- Soft and Comfortable Fit: The foam is widely praised for its low-pressure feel, with side sleepers noting they can wear them all night without discomfort.
- Easy to Use: Reviewers appreciate how simple they are to roll, insert, and remove—even for first-time users.
- Great for Travel and Daily Use: Users mention packing these for flights, loud events, or work shifts where reliable quiet is needed.
- Trusted by Long-Term Users: Some buyers note they’ve repurchased these earplugs for years, valuing their consistency and effectiveness.
Overall, users find these earplugs dependable and comfortable for regular noise reduction.
- Soft foam design is suitable for side sleeping
- High 33 dB noise reduction rating
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Widely trusted by doctors and long-time users
- Convenient packaging for on-the-go use
- Disposable design contributes to single-use waste
- May not seal properly if not inserted correctly
- One-size fit may not suit very small ear canals
- Needs replacement after each use to stay effective
Loop Dream
Loop Dream
- Sleep-Optimized Fit: Soft silicone and a closed-loop design reduce pressure, making them suitable for side sleepers.
- Noise Reduction: Offers 27 dB SNR to dull snoring, street noise, and other sleep disruptions.
- Secure All-Night Wear: Engineered to stay in place without slipping out overnight.
- Custom Sizing: Comes with four ear tip sizes to help users find a snug, comfortable fit.
The Loop Dream earplugs are built for sleep, offering a thoughtful blend of comfort and noise reduction for those who need uninterrupted rest. Designed with side-sleepers and light sleepers in mind, they aim to reduce nighttime disturbances without sacrificing fit or ease of use.
- The closed-loop design and soft silicone construction reduce ear pressure, making them comfortable to wear throughout the night—especially when sleeping on your side.
- With 27 dB of certified noise reduction and a secure in-ear fit, they help dull common disruptions like snoring or outside noise, supporting more restful, consistent sleep.
Compact and easy to clean, the Loop Dream earplugs offer a practical solution for anyone seeking reliable night-time noise control in a reusable, comfort-first design.
- Blocks Out Snoring: Many users report noticeably better sleep thanks to effective noise reduction, especially when dealing with snoring partners or ambient noise.
- Comfortable All Night: The soft material and snug fit are praised for staying comfortable through the night, even for side sleepers.
- Takes Time to Fit Right: Some mention a short learning curve for proper insertion, but once fitted correctly, they stay secure without causing discomfort.
- Custom Sizing Helps: Users appreciate the multiple tip sizes, though a few needed to test different ones to avoid morning ear irritation.
- Price vs. Value: While some feel the cost is high, most agree the comfort and performance justify it—especially with affordable replacement tips.
Overall, users find these ideal for improving sleep without sacrificing comfort.
- Soft silicone construction reduces ear pressure during sleep
- 27 dB certified noise reduction helps with snoring and environmental noise
- Secure design stays in place, even when sleeping on your side
- Comes with multiple tip sizes for better fit across ear shapes
- Durable and reusable, making them more sustainable than disposables
- Handy bedside-friendly carry case with non-slip bottom
- May require some trial and error to find the right fit
- Can be tricky to insert correctly at first
- Tips have a limited lifespan and may need replacing over time
- Higher price point than basic foam earplugs
Sony WF-1000XM5
Sony WF-1000XM5
- Advanced Noise Cancellation – Dual feedback microphones and adaptive noise control significantly reduce external sounds.
- Detailed, High-Resolution Audio – Wide frequency range and dynamic drivers deliver clear, balanced sound with rich detail.
- Long Battery Life – Up to 8 hours of continuous playback, plus 24 extra hours with the charging case.
- Intuitive Touch Controls – Easily switch between noise cancellation, playback, and calls with responsive touch gestures.
The Sony WF-1000XM5 wireless noise-canceling earbuds offer a blend of advanced noise cancellation, high-resolution audio support, and user-friendly features, making them a strong choice for those prioritizing immersive listening.
- Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation – The earbuds use dual feedback microphones and advanced noise isolation ear tips to reduce external noise, enhancing focus in busy environments.
- High-Quality Sound with Extended Battery Life – A dynamic driver and wide frequency range deliver detailed sound, while up to 8 hours of playback (plus 24 additional hours with the case) ensures longevity for daily use.
With additional features like IPX4 water resistance and voice assistant support, the Sony WF-1000XM5 provides a well-rounded listening experience for those seeking effective noise cancellation and premium sound in a compact design.
- Clear, Detailed Sound - users praise the crisp, well-balanced audio, with some noticing subtle details in their music that other earbuds miss.
- Powerful Noise Cancellation - many highlight the stellar noise cancellation, stating it significantly reduces external noise, even in busy environments. Some find it almost disorienting how well it blocks background sound.
- Secure & Comfortable Fit - the snug ear tips create a firm seal, improving both noise isolation and long-term comfort. While most find the fit secure, a few mention needing occasional adjustments.
- Reliable Battery Life - with up to 8 hours of playback and an additional 24 hours from the case, users appreciate the longevity. Quick charging is also a welcome convenience.
- Crisp and detailed sound quality enhances music clarity and depth.
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions.
- Reliable battery life with quick charging support.
- Water-resistant (IPX4), making them suitable for workouts or light rain.
- Touch controls may take time to master and can be sensitive.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- ANC may feel overly isolating for some users in quieter environments.
- Fit may require adjustments for a secure seal, depending on ear shape.
Happy Ears Earplugs
Happy Ears Earplugs
- Multi-Use Fit Kit: Discovery Pack includes three sizes to help users find the most comfortable and secure fit.
- Simple, Filter-Free Design: No electronics or filters—just a straightforward, reusable solution.
- Environmentally Conscious: Recycled range with compostable packaging supports lower waste and fewer shipments.
- US-Friendly Shipping: Ships from Salt Lake City with 1–4 day delivery across the continental U.S.
The Happy Ears Earplugs offer a practical, eco-conscious solution for users seeking a reusable alternative to traditional disposable earplugs. Designed and made in Sweden, they prioritise simplicity, comfort, and versatility without relying on electronics or filters.
- The inclusion of small, medium, and large sizes in the Discovery Pack helps users find the right fit without guesswork, improving comfort and long-term usability across different scenarios like sleep, concerts, and swimming.
- The recycled model with compostable packaging offers an environmentally responsible option, while the annual replacement recommendation supports sustainability by reducing shipping frequency.
This makes the Happy Ears Earplugs a solid option for those after a low-maintenance, multi-purpose earplug with a focus on fit, reusability, and reduced waste.
- Reliable Across Situations: Many users report using Happy Ears for sleep, concerts, swimming, and travel - praising their consistent performance without the need for different models.
- Comfortable Once You Find the Right Fit: The Discovery Pack helps users identify the best size, with most finding a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place overnight or during activity.
- Simple and Hassle-Free: The no-frills design is frequently described as intuitive and easy to use, especially for those tired of complicated or tech-heavy alternatives.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Users appreciate that the earplugs hold up well over months of regular use, with several noting the recycled model feels just as sturdy as the original.
- Minimal Waste, Maximum Value: Positive comments often mention the reusable nature and sustainable packaging as key selling points, particularly for eco-conscious buyers.
- Available in three sizes to suit different ear shapes
- Reusable design reduces long-term waste and cost
- Fully recycled model with eco-friendly packaging
- Comfortable for extended wear, including overnight use
- Suitable for a wide range of situations: sleep, swimming, concerts, and more
- Smaller size can be fiddly to handle
- Higher price point than many other reusable earplugs
- No noise filter customization or tech-based adjustments
- Fit may require trial and error before finding the right size
MeeAudio Snooz-Zs
MeeAudio Snooz-Zs
- Custom Fit: Molded to your exact ear shape for optimal comfort and a secure seal.
- Noise Reduction: Blocks up to 29dB of ambient noise, supporting deeper sleep.
- Reusable Design: Durable silicone build designed to last for years with daily use.
- Sleep-Friendly Shape: Soft, low-profile material stays comfortable for side sleepers.
The MeeAudio Snooz-Zs are custom-molded silicone earplugs built for sleep, offering a personalized fit for lasting comfort and noise reduction.
- Soft, medical-grade silicone and a tailored shape reduce pressure and stay secure, making them ideal for side sleepers or restless nights.
- Up to 29dB of noise reduction provides a more peaceful sleep environment, with a snug seal that stays in place throughout the night.
You’ll need to visit an audiologist for ear impressions, and there’s a 3–4 week wait unless you opt for rush processing.
Overall, the Snooz-Zs suit sleepers looking for long-term comfort and consistent noise blocking without relying on disposable plugs.
- Exceptional Comfort for Side Sleepers: Many users highlight the soft silicone and custom fit as a major upgrade from generic plugs, especially for those who sleep on their side.
- Stays Put All Night: Once inserted, users say the earplugs don’t shift or fall out, even with tossing and turning.
- Noticeable Noise Reduction: Reviewers report significant improvement in blocking ambient sounds like snoring or street noise, though not complete silence.
- Long-Term Value: Despite the upfront cost, users appreciate the reusability and durability, often noting it saves money over time.
- Wait Time Requires Patience: Some users mention the 3–4 week manufacturing time as a downside, though most feel the comfort is worth the wait.
Overall, users find these earplugs a reliable choice for better sleep when fit and comfort are a priority.
- Custom-molded fit offers superior comfort and noise isolation
- Silicone material is soft, flexible, and safe for extended wear
- Color-coded plugs make it easy to distinguish left from right
- Long-lasting and reusable, reducing ongoing earplug costs
- Impressions are stored for future replacements if lost
- Requires an in-person audiologist visit for ear impressions
- Wait time of 3–4 weeks before receiving finished product
- Extra cost for audiologist appointment not included in price
- Effectiveness depends on the quality of impressions taken
- Higher upfront investment compared to disposable options
Philips Kokoon
Philips Kokoon
- Comfortable for Side Sleepers – Ultra-thin earbuds and five ear tip sizes provide a secure, barely-there fit.
- Smart Sleep Audio – The Kokoon app offers adaptive soundscapes that fade out as you fall asleep.
- Noise Masking – Combines passive noise isolation with white noise to block distractions.
- All-Night Battery – Up to 11 hours of battery life ensures uninterrupted use.
The Philips Kokoon Sleep Headphones offer a practical solution for those struggling with sleep disturbances, combining passive noise isolation with sleep-enhancing audio features.
- Comfortable for Side Sleepers – The ultra-thin earbuds and soft silicone tips (available in five sizes) provide a secure yet barely noticeable fit, making them suitable for any sleeping position, especially for side sleepers.
- Adaptive Sleep Audio – The Kokoon app offers a mix of soundscapes, meditations, and binaural beats that fade out as you fall asleep, helping to mask external noises while ensuring a seamless listening experience.
With a balance of physical comfort and smart sleep support, these headphones are a well-rounded option for users looking to improve their rest without bulky, over-ear designs.
- Comfortable for Side Sleepers – Many users find the ultra-thin earbuds surprisingly comfortable, even when sleeping on their side. The lightweight design and multiple ear tip options help achieve a snug but unobtrusive fit.
- Effective Noise Masking – While the passive noise isolation works well for reducing background sounds, some users note that the white noise feature is particularly helpful for masking snoring or street noise.
- Adaptive Sleep Audio is a Plus – The Kokoon app’s soundscapes and auto-fade feature receive positive feedback for helping users drift off naturally. However, a few mention that a wider selection of audio options would be welcome.
- Lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) – While the headphones offer good passive isolation, some users expected ANC and were disappointed it isn’t included.
- Easy to Use – Simple Bluetooth pairing and intuitive controls make setup hassle-free, though a handful of users find the short cable takes some getting used to.
Overall, users find the Philips Kokoon Sleep Headphones a comfortable and practical choice for improving sleep, especially for light sleepers and side sleepers.
- Double as regular headphones
- Specialized app for soundscapes and sleep tracking
- Sleek, comfortable design
- On the expensive side
- Battery life is adequate but not extraordinary
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Ozlo Sleepbuds
Ozlo Sleepbuds
- Noise Masking Technology – Blocks out snoring, city noise, and other disturbances for a more restful sleep.
- Smart Sleep Features – Automatically switches from streaming to noise masking when you fall asleep.
- All-Night Comfort – Soft silicone tips provide a snug, pressure-free fit for overnight use.
- Personalised Sleep Tracking – Monitors noise, temperature, and light levels to offer daily sleep insights.
The Ozlo Sleepbuds® offer a compact yet technology-packed solution for anyone struggling with sleep disruptions. With noise masking, biometric sensing, and smart features, they’re designed to support a restful night without reliance on medication.
- Effective Noise Blocking & Smart Sleep Tech – Clinically proven sleep technology helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer by masking disruptive sounds like snoring or city noise. The automatic switch from streaming to noise masking ensures uninterrupted rest.
- Comfortable & Personalized Experience – Soft silicone tips provide all-night comfort, while the in-ear alarm offers a gentle wake-up without disturbing a partner. Additionally, the smart case tracks environmental factors like noise and temperature, delivering insights through the Ozlo Sleep App.
With its blend of sleep-enhancing features and user-focused design, the Ozlo Sleepbuds® offer a practical choice for those seeking a tailored, technology-driven sleep aid.
- Effective Noise Masking – Users find the noise-blocking feature helpful for reducing snoring, city noise, and other disturbances. Some side sleepers mention occasional audio interruptions when pressing against the pillow.
- Comfortable for All-Night Wear – The soft silicone tips are widely praised for their comfort, with many saying they can wear them through the night without irritation.
- Reliable Battery Life – Most users report that the 10-hour battery life lasts through the night, and the charging case provides extra convenience. Some wish the earbuds charged faster between uses.
- Smart Sleep Features – The automatic switch from streaming to noise masking is a standout feature, helping users avoid interruptions. Many also appreciate the sleep tracking insights provided by the biometric sensors.
- Setup and Connectivity – Some users find it slightly inconvenient that the earbuds need to be synced while still in the case before being worn. Others mention that staying close to the case is necessary for proper functionality.
- Room for Improvement – A few users would like a greater selection of sounds. Others mention that the charging case is a bit large for travel but still appreciate its functionality.
Overall, the Ozlo Sleepbuds® receive positive feedback for their noise masking, comfort, and smart features, though side sleepers and those who frequently travel note some minor drawbacks.
- Clinically proven noise masking helps users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- Soft silicone tips offer all-night comfort, even for side sleepers.
- Biometric sensors detect when you fall asleep and adjust playback automatically.
- Smart in-ear alarm wakes you gently without disturbing a partner.
- Charging case extends battery life and provides convenient recharging.
- Some users report occasional audio interruptions when pressing against a pillow.
- The charging case is relatively large for travel convenience.
- Must remain within range of the case for full functionality.
- Limited selection of built-in sleep sounds.
Types of Earplugs for Sleep
Here’s a quick run-down on the most common types to give you an idea of what is right for you:
Foam
- Foam models are probably the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “earplugs.” Foam earplugs were invented in 1972 and are usually made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). They generally do a good job of blocking sound when used properly (see image below for incorrect, partial, and correct insertion techniques). To use, roll the foam plug until it is long and thin, insert it deeply into the ear canal while pulling up on the ear to straighten the canal, and hold it in place for 20 – 30 seconds while it expands to fit your ear.
Flanged
- Flanged earplugs offer quicker protection against noise as they do not have to expand to fit your eardrum. They usually have a two- or three-tiered Christmas tree shape and are inserted by twisting into the ear canal. You can generally buy these in several different sizes to accommodate all ears. They can be used by swimmers, surfers, or while bathing.
Digital
- Like wireless Bluetooth headphones, digital earplugs usually feature some combination of passive and active noise canceling abilities. Passive noise cancelation is the same kind of protection you get from standard foam, silicone, or wax earplugs (or even shoving your fingers in your ears) and is achieved by forming a seal around the ear canal to block out external sound. Active noise cancelation improves upon this by playing a sound into the ear canal to mask the external noise further. These earplugs also sometimes feature an external microphone to pick up changes in the volume of your surroundings, which in turn regulates the volume of sound being played by the internal speakers to ensure an unobtrusive listening experience.
Custom
- Custom-molded earplugs might be the ones for you if you have particularly small or large ears, a non-standard ear canal shape, or enjoy the satisfaction of a perfect fit every time. Getting a hold of some may require you to visit a local audiologist to have impressions taken of your ears. The audiologist then sends the impressions off to a lab, where they are used to create a pair of earplugs tailored perfectly to your ears.
Final Thoughts on the Best Sleep Earplugs
Finding the right sleep earplugs can make a world of difference in getting a good night's rest.
Whether you need something simple and affordable like foam plugs or prefer advanced features with sleep headphones, there's an option out there for you.
Think about what matters most to you - comfort, noise reduction, or extra features like sleep tracking, and pick the earplugs that fit your needs.
With the right choice, you'll be on your way to better sleep and more energized mornings. Sleep tight!
