It’s amazing what small tweaks to your nighttime routine can do for your sleep. Simple changes like cooling down your bedroom, reading a book or journaling can make a big difference in how well you sleep.
Updating your bed, mattress or pillows can all make a difference in your sleep quality, but controlling how much light reaches your eyes at night is also important. For many of us, blocking out light is crucial for a good night’s rest. That’s where sleep masks come in.
Once I started using them, I noticed a huge difference in my sleep quality. Even though I have blackout curtains in my room, light from my neighbor’s security flood light somehow still creeps in. Now, I swear by sleep masks to make sure that none of the light from the outside or my electronics inside disturbs me.
Long gone are the days of simple masks that simply cover your eyes — now they have more features that can help with everything from blocking out noise to anxiety. From weighted sleep masks that act like weighted blankets for your face, to noise-muffling eye masks, we’ve curated this list based on research and reviews of some of the best sleep masks currently available on the market. Keep reading below to find one for your needs, whether you’re a side sleeper or looking for something that can help your skin.
NodPod
If you’ve ever used a weighted blanket for stress or anxiety, then you know the surprisingly calming effects that the pressure from weighted products can have on your sleep. The same concept has been applied to sleep masks, and Nodpod is one popular choice.
When I tried the sleep mask I loved the calming effect of the mask on my face. The NodPod also has two different materials — one side is made of jersey for a cooler feel, and the other is microfiber, which is warmer.
Lunya
Lunya’s silk sleep mask sounds luxurious — and it is. But you can also throw it in the wash, making it more convenient for real life. The wide band and full-coverage fit ensures that your eyes are completely covered so no light gets in.
The most interesting feature of this mask is that it’s designed to help muffle noise since the band fits over your ears. If you’ve yet to get used to wearing ear plugs at night (like me) but want some noise relief, this can help.
Clique
If you’re looking for a minimal, lightweight “barely there” sleep mask, this one is it. It’s super soft, light and the smooth silk doesn’t tug on your hair. The smooth fabric and headband ensure that you stay comfortable while you sleep on your side.
The mask is big enough to provide coverage over your eyes, but it doesn’t weigh you down. It’s also machine -washable and convenient for travel since it does not take up much space in a bag.
Amazon
Some sleep masks are on the smaller side or are shaped in a way that doesn’t work for different sized faces. This Alaska Bear sleep mask offers a broad, full-coverage fit making it a good choice for bigger faces.
The key to a sleep mask working well is to find one that actually covers your face enough to block all light. The adjustable headband also ensures a snug fit for a variety of sleeping positions and head sizes.
Amazon
If you don’t love the feeling of a mask pressing against your eyelids at night, or sometimes want the feeling of being able to blink and open your eyes, a contoured mask can help block out the light without weighing on your eyes. This 3D contoured mask also fits the bill if you’re on a budget since a three-pack clocks in at around $12.
Tempur-Pedic
If you love memory-foam pillows or mattresses, then you know how comfortable memory foam is for sleep. The foam eye mask molds to fit your face, and it covers your ears, which is handy to help secure ear plugs or headphones. The mask has an adjustable Velcro strap to ensure you have a snug fit that stays in place even if you toss and turn at night.
Watch this:
Do these 8 things to sleep better tonight
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The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
