Latest news with #NationalSleepFoundation
Forbes
2 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
Sleep Tight Without Light—The 6 Best Sleep Masks After Weeks Of Testing
Whether you're spending the night in the comfort of your own home, a hotel or a loved one's residence, a sleep mask can help minimize light, a well-known disruptor of deep rest, and promote better sleep quality. Even small doses of light, like the glow of a streetlight through the cracks of your blinds or the power light on your television's front panel, can be enough to throw off your circadian rhythm. The best sleep masks have edge-to-edge blackout capabilities, are comfortable to wear all night and may feature extra technology to enhance the experience. After weeks of testing, we named the Baloo Living Weighted Silk Stone Sleep Mask the best overall because of its gentle fit, added detail and adjustable design that offers comfort for a variety of head shapes and sizes. The best sleep masks help keep your circadian rhythm on track and are comfortable enough to sleep ... More with all night. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTOS: RETAILERS 'Darkness is an important component of a sleep-friendly space, and sleep masks are a nice way to create a dark sleep space almost anywhere,' says Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, SVP of research and scientific affairs at the National Sleep Foundation. 'At the most basic level, light is alerting and darkness is calming." He notes that research shows even low levels of light at night can raise your heart rate and disrupt sleep. To maintain a dark environment wherever you are, see our top-rated sleep mask picks below. Our Top Recommendations Best Sleep Mask Overall: Baloo Living Weighted Silk Sleep Stone Mask Best Sleep Mask For Your Skin And Hair: Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask Best Massaging Sleep Mask: Therabody Sleepmask Best Value Sleep Mask: Alaska Bear Sleep Mask Best Contoured Sleep Mask: Dore & Rose Aura Sleep Mask Best Weighted Sleep Mask: Nodpod Sleep Mask Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Material: Mulberry silk, cotton, polyester, glass beads | Blackout ability: Excellent | Adjustable: Yes Best for: Most sleep postures (back, side, stomach and combination) Those who want a silk option that's gentle on the skin and hair Sleepers with anxiety who want a weighted sleep accessory Skip if: You want a machine-washable mask You prefer sleep masks with eye cups Go to bed each night with the silky-soft feel of the Weighted Silk Sleep Stone Mask from Baloo Living, which is made from 100% luxurious mulberry silk. It's slightly oversized for complete light blocking ability and filled with lead-free glass beads for a weighted feel that delivers deep pressure touch. Deep touch pressure stimulates a natural release of oxytocin to help relieve anxiety and promote better rest. 'The gentle weight of this 9-ounce mask keeps it comfortably in place while I'm in my preferred hybrid stomach/side sprawl, and the generous size means complete darkness. I also tested it on my back, where it's equally effective,' says our tester. As a special touch, a stone is placed within the mask around your third eye to 'channel special energy,' according to the brand, and our tester says, 'it's never felt uncomfortable or distracting during sleep.' Lunya Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Material: Mulberry silk, polyester | Blackout ability: Excellent | Adjustable: No Best for: Most sleeping positions Preventing the hair and skin from creasing Sleepers who want a mask with easy upkeep Those who want multiple colorway options Skip if: You prefer a sleep mask with an adjustable strap You'd like a mask with eye cups Made from premium mulberry silk like the Baloo Living choice, the Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask offers exceptional blackout coverage with a slick and smooth design that doesn't tug on the skin or hair during sleep. 'It fully blocks light, no matter how bright the room is, and the smooth silk is almost like soft suede,' says our tester. It fits on your head like an elastic headband that effortlessly slips on and stays in place, and according to our tester, it comfortably sits whether you sleep on your back, side or stomach, or switch between all positions. Enjoy easy maintenance as the face mask is machine washable (though a laundry bag is recommended) and choose between two sizes for your ideal fit. Small correlates to a women's one-size-fits-all (OS), while the large is a men's OS. Plus, it's available in a handful of colors and patterns. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Material: Cotton, nylon, thermoplastic | Blackout ability: Excellent | Adjustable: Yes Best for: Those who want a multifunctional sleep mask People who want a machine-washable option Back and side sleepers Sleepers who want a cupped option Skip if: You prefer a simple sleep mask A sleep mask with massaging power is a luxury that I didn't know I needed until I tried the Therabody Sleepmask. It completely blocks out external light and is equipped with three massage modes that help me relax during my regular bedtime routine. You can adjust the intensity between regular and high, and the mask has an automatic timer that ends the massage after 20 minutes in case you fall asleep before you're able to power it off—which I usually do. Massage therapy is a known force for increased relaxation and better rest, and it can be even more effective when paired with complete darkness before bed. The Therabody Sleepmask should fit most head sizes as it comes with an adjustable strap, which feels unnoticeable even during back sleeping. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Material: Mulberry silk, cotton | Blackout ability: Great | Adjustable: Yes Best for: A variety of sleep positions (back, side and stomach) Those who prefer a traditional sleep mask style Shoppers on a budget Skip if: You'd like a thicker or larger mask Reap the benefits of a blacked-out bedroom with an affordable, high-quality sleep mask. Underneath its silky-smooth cover is subtle contouring around the eye sockets, padded with comfortable cushioning that gently presses against the face. Our tester says that this design allows her to blink underneath the mask, 'and it doesn't press too tightly against the eyes or the lashes.' And although she typically favors thicker and wider options, she says the Alaska Bear Sleep Mask ticks all the boxes for function and comfort. Fitted with an adjustable strap, it's suitable for most shapes and sizes, and it's washing machine-friendly. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Material: Mulberry silk | Blackout ability: Excellent | Adjustable: Yes Best for: Those who want a mask that's gentle on skin and hair Individuals prone to pressure headaches People with long eyelashes or eyelash extensions Most sleep postures and body sizes (adjustable fit) Skip if: You're a dedicated stomach sleeper Enjoy the smooth, soft and subtly cooling feel of premium 100% mulberry silk with a contoured design that keeps pressure off your eyes and lashes. Silk helps prevent pulls and tugs on the hair and skin, but the Dore & Rose Aura Sleep Mask is also treated with a silver ion antibacterial to combat the buildup of bacteria, leading to clearer and healthier skin. This is a top choice for our senior mattress and sleep editor Bridget Chapman, who says she loves to use it while traveling, taking a nap or when she's struggling to fall asleep. 'Along with snugly fitting and staying put, it's hard to find sleep masks that my eyelashes don't hit (especially if I'm taking a nap and have mascara on), but this one does the trick.' It has an adjustable band to customize your fit, and Chapman recommends making it snug for excellent blackout ability. This sleep mask also requires easy care and is machine washable, but the brand recommends putting it inside a laundry bag and then using a delicate cycle. Forbes Vetted Forbes Vetted ratings are based on thorough evaluations by our editorial team to help you choose the best products with confidence. Material: Cotton and microfleece outside, polyethylene beads inside | Blackout ability: Excellent | Adjustable: Yes Best for: Sleepers with high stress or anxiety Back, side and stomach sleepers Those who want a variety of colors to pick from Skip if: You prefer a traditional eye mask style You sleep on your stomach Along with blocking sleep-disrupting light before bed, the Nodpod Sleep Mask is designed to drape over your eyes and forehead to help ease anxiety and stress as you wind down. Like a weighted blanket —and similar to the Baloo Sleep Mask—this pick uses deep touch pressure to stimulate feelings of well-being and relaxation, helping you fall asleep faster and more soundly. 'As far as versatility goes, the Nodpod is a standout,' says our tester. She adds that it can go in the freezer, noting that "the soothing chill works wonders on tired, puffy eyes.' It weighs nine ounces (about half a pound), it's covered in a plush, soft-to-the-touch fabric that's half cotton and half microfleece. We tested over ten sleep masks to help determine which stood out as the most comfortable, light blocking and accommodating. Here are a few other options our team tested that deserve honorable mention. Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Eye Mask (Forbes Vetted score: 4.3 out of 5): 'If you're a back sleeper and you like a little weight, this is a great option,' our tester says. 'I liked its gentle pressure and complete blackout coverage, and the fact that the removable, washable cover is made with 37.5 Technology to help manage temperature. While it isn't adjustable and the band seems a little thin given the weight of the mask, none of those things matter if you sleep on your back the entire night. I just wouldn't recommend it for other sleep positions.' 'If you're a back sleeper and you like a little weight, this is a great option,' our tester says. 'I liked its gentle pressure and complete blackout coverage, and the fact that the removable, washable cover is made with 37.5 Technology to help manage temperature. While it isn't adjustable and the band seems a little thin given the weight of the mask, none of those things matter if you sleep on your back the entire night. I just wouldn't recommend it for other sleep positions.' Saatva Weighted Silk Eye Mask (Forbes Vetted score: 4.3 out of 5): According to our tester, 'Between the colors, the silky feel and the gentle weight, this mask immediately presents as fancy." It's shaped as a traditional sleep mask with oversized features and an extra-wide strap. "Surprisingly, it was enough to keep the mask in place when I rolled from my back to my side. It blocks almost all the light, but the thicker profile isn't particularly comfortable when I'm on my stomach,' she says. Chapman is also a fan of this sleep mask because of its premium materials and feel. According to our tester, 'Between the colors, the silky feel and the gentle weight, this mask immediately presents as fancy." It's shaped as a traditional sleep mask with oversized features and an extra-wide strap. "Surprisingly, it was enough to keep the mask in place when I rolled from my back to my side. It blocks almost all the light, but the thicker profile isn't particularly comfortable when I'm on my stomach,' she says. Chapman is also a fan of this sleep mask because of its premium materials and feel. Whoop Adjustable Sleep Mask (Forbes Vetted score: 3.3 out of 5): After testing this model for several days, our tester says, 'While I wanted to like this one because I appreciate the concept of contoured cups that keep the mask off my eyelids and lashes, it just didn't work for me.' She adds, 'The issue is that the mask isn't quite contoured enough. Instead of curving slightly, it's straight across my face, creating gaps that let light in from different angles. But when I tighten the mask to pull it close enough to my face that it blocks light, it presses uncomfortably across the bridge of my nose. While it's lightweight and soft, it fails in terms of comfort and efficacy.' After testing this model for several days, our tester says, 'While I wanted to like this one because I appreciate the concept of contoured cups that keep the mask off my eyelids and lashes, it just didn't work for me.' She adds, 'The issue is that the mask isn't quite contoured enough. Instead of curving slightly, it's straight across my face, creating gaps that let light in from different angles. But when I tighten the mask to pull it close enough to my face that it blocks light, it presses uncomfortably across the bridge of my nose. While it's lightweight and soft, it fails in terms of comfort and efficacy.' Infinity Bamboo Sleep Mask (Forbes Vetted score: 4 out of 5): Our tester lists multiple reasons why she loves this sleep mask, and it was a go-to before the Baloo choice. 'It's ultra light and breathable, for zero creasing or hair kinking, and it works no matter what position I'm in,' she says. However, 'it's not adjustable, and the stretchy fit veers oversized, so it doesn't do a great job of keeping all light out." We know what it takes to get a good night's sleep with the help of quality products. We have a team of seasoned editors and writers with extensive experience in the industry, and rely on expert opinions to help inform us and our articles on important sleep topics. McKenzie Dillon is a mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted, a certified sleep science coach and has been writing and researching sleep for over six years. She has tested most bedding and sleep accessories you can think of, from sunrise alarm clocks and side sleeper pillows to quality sleep masks that made our roundup (or honorable mention). and to quality sleep masks that made our roundup (or honorable mention). Bridget Chapman is the senior mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted and has tested hundreds of mattresses and sleep products. She also has her sleep science coach certification and gave her insight on multiple sleep masks that we mentioned here. We spoke with Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, SVP of research and scientific affairs at the National Sleep Foundation for his expertise on sleep masks and their potential benefits for better sleep. We first sifted through dozens of sleep masks online to identify the internet's most well-loved options from top-rated brands, including ones we have experience with ourselves. We had multiple Forbes Vetted team members test for the best sleep masks in their own homes, including Chapman and Dillon. Each sleep mask was tested for at least three days straight during light and dark hours. Each sleep mask was judged and scored based on: their ability to prevent sunlight from penetrating through, comfort level for each sleeping position, overall fit and noteworthy enhanced features. We pored over hundreds of customer reviews to see which sleep masks performed best with real customers, and they were only chosen if they have a 4-star rating or higher. A sleep mask is a great accessory for anyone to keep on their bedside table, especially considering most blinds and curtains don't offer enough coverage to prevent all light from shining through. Dzierzewski says the ideal sleep space is one that is dark, quiet, cool, and comfortable, and 'sleep masks can create a dark sleep environment almost anywhere.' When narrowing down the best sleep mask for you, these are the primary factors to consider. Material The most common materials for a sleep mask include silk, cotton, bamboo, polyester and nylon. Silk is a popular choice for its smooth and soft profile that's gentle on the skin and hair along with its cooling feel. Bamboo has a similar slick and smooth texture, but is better at wicking away moisture and promoting airflow. Cotton is another soft natural fiber that allows for breathability and helps wick away moisture. However, it's often not quite as luxurious as bamboo or silk. Design And Weight An eye mask is meant to block ambient light from disrupting your rest. As long as it achieves this goal, design primarily comes down to personal preference. Contoured or cupped sleep masks help prevent pressure against the eye sockets and may be a preference for those with long eyelashes. Weighted sleep masks are another option and best for those who can't sleep due to stress or anxiety. Fit And Adjustability Ensuring a proper fit is key to preventing gaps that let light in. Many sleep masks can be adjusted for a customized fit. Others fit like an elastic headband that sits snug on your head or are available in multiple sizes. Do Doctors Recommend Sleep Masks? Yes. Dzierzewski says a sleep mask is a good accessory for promoting a dark sleep environment, especially since curtains and blinds can only block external light from the outside. Which Material Is Best For A Sleep Mask? Silk is a common sleep mask material because of its silky feel and it's gentle on the skin and hair, which helps prevent wrinkles and breakage. However, it ultimately depends on personal preference. What Is The Best Sleep Mask To Use? A good sleep mask blocks ambient light, stays put all night and accommodates most sleeping positions. Our top picks, the Baloo Weighted Silk Sleep Stone Mask and the Lunya Washable Silk Mask, meet those needs and come with a few different options to suit different needs.
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New Study Reveals the PERFECT Room Temperature for Sleeping
There's plenty of debate over what exactly the ideal room temperature is while sleeping. Some like it downright balmy while others prefer a chill to the air. Well, we can finally put a rest to the discourse because a new study from the National Sleep Foundation has revealed the optimal room temperature for snoozing. Be prepared to grab your favorite down comforter because the ideal temperature is around 65°F (18.3°C). News of the study was shared by the Instagram account @explain, but the full report can be found on the National Sleep Foundation website. The report, which was published earlier this month, goes into further detail on why resting in a room that's too stuffy can be detrimental to your sleep. "Warmer temperatures can cause discomfort and restlessness, and anyone who has slept in a stuffy bedroom can attest that it is hard to nod off when they are sweaty and dehydrated. A bedroom that is too warm can interfere with the body's thermoregulation abilities and cause fatigue. Often, a person who is fatigued will feel physically and mentally tired, but unable to fall asleep," the report revealed. While some people are thrilled at the confirmation that a cooler temperature is most ideal when it comes to sleeping, others aren't quite sure they can afford that cool comfort. "Tell that to my electric company.. if i set it at 65 in the summer I'd lose my house 😂," read one of the most liked comments under @explain's Instagram post. "Research also shows that you will need a second job to pay the electric bill," someone else chimed in. Will you be adjusting your thermostat tonight? You Might Also Like 15 Home Bar Gifts Every Cocktail Enthusiast Will Appreciate 32 Low Light Indoor Plants That Can Survive in the Darkest Corners of Your Home These Are the 50 Best Paint Colors for Your Living Room
Associated Press
16-07-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
National Sleep Foundation Launches Best Slept® Families
A comprehensive, multigenerational initiative for sleep health across the lifespan WASHINGTON, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) announced the launch of a groundbreaking family sleep health initiative, building on its decades-long history of consensus guidelines, evidence-based recommendations, population-level research, SleepTech® leadership and advocacy, and consumer sleep health content across multiple demographics. Under the moniker of Best Slept® Families, the multi-faceted approach will engage the public with recommendations and tools to guide healthy sleep for all family members from infancy through older adulthood, understanding the interconnected nature of family sleep patterns and their impact on health and well-being. The National Sleep Foundation's family sleep health approach builds on the organization's commitment to translating sleep science and insight into practical, actionable guidance for individuals and families. The initiative stems from the NSF's promise to advance excellence in sleep health theory, research, and practice to help anyone and everyone be their Best Slept Self®. NSF will feature new population sleep health research across the lifespan, new guidance with critical insights into how sleep needs can change over time, and more educational resources with practical content tailored for the whole family. 'Sleep health is not just an individual pursuit, it's a family affair,' said Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, Senior Vice President of Research and Scientific Affairs at NSF. 'We know sleep behaviors, environments, and challenges within families are deeply interconnected. When one family member struggles with sleep, it often affects the entire household. At the same time, how family members model healthy sleep practices can be a strong positive influence for the whole family. This initiative recognizes all the complexities of family sleep health.' Modern families face unprecedented challenges when it comes to sleep health. From busy schedules that impact sleep opportunity to behaviors that can disrupt circadian rhythms, families need practical, evidence-based strategies they can use for their unique circumstances. 'Now's a great time to look at the culmination of NSF's work over the last 35 years, and all roads lead to the destination of family sleep health. We are going to help anyone and everyone be their Best Slept Self to help build Best Slept Families for today and tomorrow. This initiative will provide evidence-based solutions for healthy sleep in the context where it starts and actually happens. We want to support lasting behavior changes that can benefit every family member's sleep and, ultimately, strengthen the public's health and well-being,' said John Lopos, NSF CEO. For more sleep health information, visit About the National Sleep Foundation There's only one National Sleep Foundation (NSF). NSF is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. In its 35 years, NSF has promoted sleep health through expert recommendations, consensus guidelines, tech standards, and easy-to-use tips and tools to improve sleep. For more information about NSF, visit │ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE National Sleep Foundation
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The best headphones for sleeping in 2025: Tested, reviewed and sleep-coach-approved
The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults log between seven and nine hours of sleep every night. But for many reasons, research shows that as many as 35% of us aren't getting the sleep we need. If it's noise keeping you awake, you might consider investing in the best sleep headphones to help quiet your environment so you can get some rest. Admittedly, there isn't much research on the sleep headphones, but some limited evidence suggests they might improve sleep quality. Ross Cushing, a clinical audiologist and CEO of Live Better Hearing + Balance is on board with giving them a try, but he cautions that you should remain mindful of the volume and be cognizant of the potential dangers of noise-canceling units. "While you're blocking the sounds that could keep you awake, you may not hear alarms, a baby crying or someone entering your home," he says. Ultimately, the best sleep headphones will mitigate ambient noise (and maybe even light, depending on the style you purchase), be comfortable to wear and offer the functionality you're looking for, whether that's a low-tech or high-tech approach. To find the best headphones for sleeping, I spoke with experts in the fields of audiology and sleep science, then I used their feedback and my own expertise (as a certified sleep coach) to identify top products worth testing. I tested 11 units, assessing them based on ease of use, comfort, sound quality, functionality, effectiveness and budget. Here you'll find the products that made the cut (and a few that didn't quite measure up). The best overall headphones for sleeping More headphones for sleeping we like Types of headphones for sleeping Factors to consider when choosing headphones for sleeping How we tested FAQs Other headphones we tested Meet our experts Updated July 11, 2025: We updated prices and checked stock for all products. Our best budget pick is more than 40% off for Amazon Prime Day right now. Related: If sleeping with headphones isn't your thing, take a look at our roundup of the best earplugs for sleeping, or our list of the best white noise machines if you like falling asleep to nature or other sounds. If you want to try one of the best sleep aids you can take without a prescription, we have a list for that too. For those who need their sleeping space to be pitch dark, check out our lists of the best blackout curtains and shades and the best sleep masks. Track and improve your sleep hygiene with one of the best sleep trackers. We've also rounded up lists of the best alarm clocks, including alarm clocks for heavy sleepers, and a list of the best sunrise alarm clocks that help you wake up more naturally. (back to top) (back to top) One of the first steps in choosing the best headphones for sleep is familiarizing yourself with your options. Here's a quick look at the different types of sleep headphones on the market. This type of sleep headphone features speakers that fit inside the ear canal. In-ear headphones are usually smaller and lighter than over-the-ear or on-ear headphones and are typically available in wired or wireless options. These headphones sit on top of your head and completely cover your ears. They're an excellent choice for blocking ambient noise and can offer higher sound quality, but can be quite bulky and unsuitable for side sleepers. Just as their name implies, headband headphones fit around your head. Meanwhile, mask/headband combos kill two birds with one stone and come down over your eyes to create a blackout effect. These sleep headphones don't require the precise fit that sleep earbuds require, and Velcro fasteners make them universally sized. Keeping comfort in mind, the manufacturers of sleep headbands and mask headbands tend to opt for soft, breathable fabrics that are washable. Unlike in-ear headphones that rest inside the ear canal, earbuds rest on the outer ear. While they may seem counterintuitive to the tossing and turning that goes with side sleeping, many manufacturers design them with silicone grips and foam tips to ensure a secure fit. Most earbuds are too small to include active noise cancellation, so they typically don't do a great job of blocking ambient sound. (back to top) When looking for sleep headphones, Cushing says, "You'll want to choose headphones specifically designed for sleep — ideally soft, flat earphones that don't cause discomfort or undue pressure on your ears." He notes that bulky headphones can be annoying, and some earbuds may pose additional risks, such as discomfort and ear canal injuries, ultimately leading to disrupted sleep, which is the opposite of what you want. When searching for the best sleep headphones, consider key points such as comfort, sound quality, battery life and price. When bedtime restlessness prompts you to seek alternative solutions for better sleep, uncomfortable sleep headphones can do more harm than good. Shelby Harris, a clinical psychologist specializing in behavioral sleep medicine and director of Sleep Health at Sleepopolis suggests you choose headphones specifically made for sleep. She adds that some of the key features to look for are: A small footprint Wireless design Soft headbands Lightweight, breathable materials to avoid overheating and skin irritation Finding the right fit is crucial, especially for side sleepers. When shopping for earbuds, opt for a slim profile and snug fit with silicone or foam ear tips that soften pressure points. For headbands or eye mask/headband combos, look for ultra-slim speakers that can be moved or repositioned. While most sleep headbands aren't known for their crisp sound, Harris says sound quality still matters. More specifically, she says, "Poor audio can be disruptive rather than relaxing." I can attest to this because I found the Sleep Phones by Acoustic Sheep particularly annoying while testing the items on this list. The headband felt flimsy compared to the others, and the sound quality was disappointing. The music wasn't so crisp, and after about 15 minutes, it became even more muddled — like a Walkman with dying batteries circa 1988. Instead of relaxing and drifting off to sleep, I found myself lying there annoyed, thinking about how bad the sound was. None of the sleep headphones I tested offered active noise cancellation, likely because they're too small for the feature. However, you're not out of luck. Many options on our list include a form of noise mitigation, usually passive noise cancellation (PNC) or colored noise/sound masking. As mentioned earlier, PNC is a physical way to block out noise. Examples include over-ear headphones that completely cover the ear to help block sound or an earbud's silicone or foam tips that help seal off the ear canal. Sound masking is another way sleep headphones can help improve your sleep experience. The definition of sound masking is right there in its name — you're using one sound (usually colored noise) to drown out ambient noise in your sleep environment. The SoundOff earbuds, for instance, use pink noise, but other colored noises like green, white and violet have gained popularity in recent years for improving sleep. Harris explains, "White noise can help you sleep better by covering up sudden noises, like traffic or noisy neighbors. This steady sound creates a peaceful environment, making it easier to relax and fall asleep." She adds that white noise can be especially helpful if you're a light sleeper or you live in a loud environment, like a city or a large apartment complex. You just need to make sure the noise stays consistent all night so its presence (or lack thereof) doesn't also disturb your sleep. All the items we tested for this roundup were wireless, with battery life varying across models. Clearly, you're going to want an option that won't lose its charge halfway through the night. Given that the American Academy of Sleep Science recommends that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep a night, you're going to want a battery life at least that long. Fortunately, most of the sleep headphones on our list have a battery life of 10 hours, with some maintaining their charge up to 20 hours. While researching sleep headphones for this roundup, we found that some options were pretty pricey. In fact, five of the nine we tested were north of $100, and only one was under $30. So, as with any product, it's crucial to keep pricing in mind. You spend a third of your life in bed sleeping or trying to sleep, so if there's anything worth investing in, it's something that'll help you move the needle on your sleep health. That said, make sure the headphones you choose are a good value for your needs — just because something is more expensive or less expensive doesn't mean it's the right or wrong solution for you. Consider your personal preferences, sleep position and budget as you select your preferred product. (back to top) As a Certified Sleep Science Coach who spends my days writing about all things sleep, I brought personal and professional expertise to this review. For additional expert input, I spoke with Ross Cushing, a clinical audiologist and CEO of Live Better Hearing + Balance, and Shelby Harris, a clinical psychologist specializing in behavioral sleep medicine and the director of Sleep Health at Sleepopolis. With the expert's advice and my personal and professional experience in hand, I took a spin around the internet to see which sleep headphones people are talking about the most. I ended up choosing to test the nine products included here. After receiving the products for testing, I worked with one set of headphones each night. I assessed factors like ease of setup, comfort, sound quality, functionality and effectiveness (my dog's snoring was a good barometer!). Digging a bit deeper, I also looked at what type of noise cancellation or noise masking each unit offered, if any. I played with the volume to see if my husband could hear anything from his side of the bed, and of course, I tinkered with the devices' apps (where applicable). To assess the sound quality, I listened to the same classical playlist with each set of sleep headphones. (back to top) "Yes, it is safe to use headphones for sleep as long as they are designed for comfort and the volume is low and reasonable," says Cushing. While he notes that "noise-canceling headphones, specifically, do a great job of blocking out environmental sounds and creating a quieter environment for sleep," he cautions users to make sure they fit well and don't cause any discomfort around pressure points. While regular headphones can do the same thing as sleep headphones, there's one key difference between the two — regular headphones aren't made for sleeping. For example, if we look at Bose QuietComfort Headphones, Apple AirPods Max or Apple AirPods, they're either too big and bulky or not ergonomically designed to stay put while you move around during the night. Sure, these headphones can deliver sleep sounds, sleep stories or whatever playlist you choose to lull you to sleep, but if you're unlikely to sleep perfectly still on your back for 8 hours straight, these are unlikely to still be in or on your ears when you wake up in the morning. The process for cleaning sleep headphones largely depends on their type and brand. From our roundup, most mask-headphone combos can be washed as needed — just remember to remove the internal electronics before doing so. While you can clean your sleep earbuds, the process is limited to moistening a cotton swab with alcohol and gently wiping the earbuds and rubber tips. Every set of sleep headphones is different, so you should read the cleaning instructions for whichever sleep headphones you purchase. (back to top) 1MORE Sleeping Earbuds Z30: These earbuds essentially do the same thing as the SoundCore A20, but there was a big difference in fit. While the left side of these earbuds fit flush in my ear, the right one didn't. No matter how much I wiggled and messed with it, it never sat flush in my ear, making me think that ear anatomy matters. Otherwise, these earbuds were fine. The sound quality was good, the setup was easy and the app was easy to navigate. SleepPhones: As I mentioned earlier, these were my least favorite of the bunch. The build quality left much to be desired — the headband felt flimsy and the fabric was rough against my skin. Performance-wise, the headband had no staying power, slipping off easily, and the sound quality was disappointing. It also performed the worst at noise masking. Considering the $100 price tag, they just don't offer a good value. LC Dolida Sleep Headphones: These headphones are another quick-ship, budget-friendly option that's decent in every way (fit, feel and sound quality). They're good but nothing to write home about. One big plus for this pair is the molded eye mask that nicely blocks out ambient light. They're also machine washable. That said, there are questionable construction issues including the choice of material that lacks breathability and the fact that the product is marketed as "one size fits all." With no ability to customize the fit, this may be a wild-card purchase for some people. (back to top) Ross Cushing, AuD, clinical audiologist and CEO of Live Better Hearing + Balance Shelby Harris, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in behavioral sleep medicine and director of Sleep Health at Sleepopolis (back to top) We received complimentary samples of some products and purchased others ourselves, but we reviewed all products using the same objective criteria. Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Tom's Guide
20-06-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Don't let summer solstice steal your sleep this weekend — how to fall asleep fast even when it's still sunny outside
Saturday will be the longest day of the year — but it might do more harm to your sleep than good, according to a recent study. Research conducted by Withings, a health tech company, shows that Americans have lost around 32 minutes of sleep per night over the last five years. The least sleep in a night was recorded during the June 21 summer solstice, which is the day with the most hours of sunlight within a 12 month period. There are a number of reasons sleep time could be reduced over the summer solstice, which we'll explore here. They include excessive exposure to sunlight and irregular meal times, which can throw off your sleep schedule, delay sleep onset (time taken to fall asleep) and stop you from getting the recommended hours of rest you need. Here are tips to avoid this and save your sleep this weekend: Sunlight exposure during the day (and particularly in the morning) increases your cortisol levels, helping to keep you alert and active and can help with melatonin (the sleepy hormone) production at night (when melatonin is naturally released in response to darkness). This process helps regulate your body's circadian rhythm (sleep and wake cycle), which means you're waking and falling asleep at the right times, and getting a restorative night's sleep. However, continued exposure to bright light in the evening can confuse your brain into remaining stimulated, which can be counterproductive for your sleep at night. With sunlight lasting until beyond 9 pm in the summer, having a late evening meal can be tempting. But before you delay your dinner time, take note that the 2022 Sleep in America Poll , conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, revealed that having regular meal times during the day has a significant positive impact on your sleep. This is, the National Sleep Foundation explains, because of how your meal times are directly linked to your body's internal sleep and wake mechanism, since they "can act as an important cue for the circadian rhythm." Eating at different times on a day or missing meals "can negatively influence the ability to maintain sleep and wake schedules, especially if meals are eaten too close to bedtime." Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Which leads us to why it's better to avoid late-night summer meals. Some foods can increase the body's core temperature (which can suppress the release of melatonin) when metabolized, and the overall process of metabolizing food will also raise your body temperature. Eating late can also cause other issues like bloating, indigestion or heartburn which can keep you awake and sabotage your sleep. It might be tempting to stay awake to see the sunset on the longest day of the year, and perhaps even longer, but this may also lead to having a bad night's sleep. That's because disrupting your normal bedtime will throw off your sleep schedule. Sticking to regular sleep and wake up times helps regulate your circadian rhythm, leading to better quality sleep (and sleep quality is equally as important as quantity), can help you avoid daytime sleepiness and even lead to better health outcomes. While you may be able to pay back the sleep debt you get from a late night on summer solstice during the same weekend, a consistent schedule will help you get a good night's rest, every night. External distractions like light can hinder sleep on any night of the year, but obviously there's going to be more daylight in the evening during the summer solstice. Even if you're inside, sunlight seeping into your bedroom can still confuse your brain into thinking you need to be active. Investing in blackout curtains or an eye mask are great tool to avoid this, especially if you're a light sleeper. Sticking to a regular nighttime routine will also help you winddown in time for bed, even if it's still bright outside. Looking for more sleep accessories to help you fall asleep faster and get restful sleep? Scroll down for our top picks... 1. Kitsch Satin Sleep Mask: was from $17.99 from $14.39 at AmazonGetting a soft to touch sleep mask is a more affordable alternative to installing blackout curtains in your bedroom. This one from Kitsch promises to block out light, and includes light padding for extra comfort, perfect for restful sleep. You can now grab this at 20% off, which drops the MSRP from $17.99 to $14.39 on Amazon. 2. QWH Silicone Ear Plugs for Sleeping: was from $29.99 now from $9.98 at AmazonAmbient noise is yet another distraction to sleep, which is more likely to present when the days are longer and people are up and about later. A simple solution is to pop in a pair of ear plugs. The QWH reusable ear plugs boast noise reduction up to 30dB, are crafted from lightweight silicone and are available in four sizes (XS, S, M and L). These currently have 67% off, which brings down the MSRP from $29.99 to just $9.98 at Amazon. 3. YnM Breathable Weighted Blanket: twin in 15lb $34.99 at AmazonDeep pressure therapy has been proven to reduce anxiety and promote rest and relaxation. The YnM breathable weighted blanket will help you achieve this thanks to its glass beads and fiber fill, while our reviewer was surprised to find it breathable and the cover cool-to-touch, which is great for summer nights. You can now find a gray, 15lb weight in a twin size for $34.99 on Amazon. There are cheaper kids' sizes available, and prices vary for other sizes and weights.
