Best Earplugs for Sleeping in 2024

Quality uninterrupted sleep is incredibly valuable to your health. It can be tough to get a good night’s sleep when there is constant noise interrupting your slumber.

If you are light sleeper or if you have to deal with outside noise, then the good news is that you can enhance your sleep with earplugs.

The tricky part is there are thousands of earplugs out there for many different uses. Luckily for you, we put together our Athlete Approved list of the best earplugs for sleeping. With the right earplugs, you can finally get the peace and quiet you need to get a good night’s sleep.

Our Athlete Approved guide to using earplugs for sleeping includes:

• The Best Overall Earplugs for Sleeping: Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs
• The Best Custom Fitting Earplugs for Sleeping: Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs
• The Best White Noise Creating Earplugs for Sleeping: Bose Sleepbuds II
• The Best Super Soft Earplugs for Sleeping: Loop Quite Earplugs
• The Best Airplane Earplugs for Sleeping: EarPlanes Ear Plugs
• The Best Side Sleeper Earplugs for Sleeping: Flents Quiet Please Foam Earplugs
• The Best Single Use Earplugs for Sleeping: Howard Leight MAX-1 Foam Earplugs
• The Best Multi Purpose Earplugs for Sleeping: 3M E-A-RSoft Yellow Neons Foam Earplugs
• The Best Wax Earplugs for Sleeping: Ohropax Classic Wax Earplugs
• The Best Budget Earplugs for Sleeping: Moldex Sparkplugs Foam Earplugs
• What Are The Benefits of Using Earplugs?
• Buyer’s Guide

THE BEST OVERALL EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs

If you’re looking for a quality pair of foam earplugs, Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are a great option. They’re made with high-quality foam that’s soft and gentle on your ears.

These earplugs, by industry leader Mack’s, provide excellent noise reduction. In fact, they’re capable of reducing noise levels by up to 33 decibels, which is the appropriate level to protect your ears from loud noises.

These earplugs are tapered to fit comfortably in your ear canal. They also come with a handy carrying case, so you can take them with you wherever you go.

If you’re looking for a comfortable and effective pair of foam earplugs for sleeping, Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Made with high-quality foam that’s soft and gentle on your ears
• Tapered to fit comfortably in your ear canal
• Comes with a handy carrying case

Cons:

• May not fit very small ear canals

THE BEST CUSTOM FITTING EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs

The Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs are some of the most unique earplugs on the market. They are made out of thermoplastic, which means that they can be molded to your ear canal. This makes them extremely comfortable and provides a custom fit.

To get that custom fit, you need to put the mold into boiling water for 5 minutes, then let it cool for 30 seconds. When the mold cools off, insert the mold into your ear. Once you get that sound isolating fit, you can try out different tips to determine which is best for your ears.

Not only are they custom molded, but they are also adjustable. This means that the user can customize the amount of noise protection that they need. If you ever need to remold your earplugs, all you need to do is repeat the process.

Additionally, these earplugs is that they are reusable. They can be washed and used over and over again.

These earplugs are perfect for anyone who wants a custom fit and adjustable noise protection. They are also great for people who have trouble finding earplugs that fit well.

Pros:

• Made out of thermoplastic, which means that they can be molded to the user’s ear canal
• Extremely comfortable and provide a custom fit
• Adjustable, which means that the user can customize the amount of noise protection that they need

Cons:

• Users must go through set up process with boiling water. The entire process took us ten minutes, but you only need to do this once.

THE BEST WHITE NOISE CREATING EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Bose Sleepbuds II

The Bose Sleepbuds II are a high end earplug. Their ability to use relaxing tones to drown out noises like snoring, dog barking, and traffic make them a great pick for sleeping.

These earplugs play relaxing white noise sounds to help you stay undisturbed when sleeping. A few of our favorite soft tones include sand, mist, static, frost, and swell. The Bose app comes with 50 options.

There are several additional cool features: You can set an alarm through these. You can set them to alert you to an incoming call. You can control the volume to allow them to mask normal nighttime sounds, while allowing you to hear louder emergency sounds. You can schedule the noise to stop.

Note that they are not headphones that you can stream music through or noise cancelling (they are noise masking).

The battery lasts approximately 10 hours. They come with a slick charging carrier case.

Pros:

• Comes with 50 different relaxing white noise while you sleep
• You can set an alarm through them
• Schedule the noise to stop or use for up to 10 hours

Cons:

• More expensive than standard earplugs, but well worth the price tag

THE BEST SUPER SOFT EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Loop Quite Earplugs

The Loop Quite Earplugs are some of the most comfortable earplugs you can find on the market. They come with a handy loop, making them easy to remove.

They are made out of a flexible silicon material to contour to the shape of your ear canals for a perfect fit.

These come with a carrying case, making them ideal for sleeping, traveling, and studying.

Not only are they comfortable, but they also provide excellent noise reduction. They have different matte color options and come with 4 sized tips.

Pros:

• The super soft material provide comfort and noise reduction
• The loop design makes them easy to remove
• Carrying case can be used as a key chain

Cons:

• Can be difficult to switch the tips on and off

THE BEST AIRPLANE EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: EarPlanes Earplugs

Pressure clogged ears that won’t “pop” are the worst! Luckily, EarPlanes Earplugs are designed to help with ear pressure and discomfort on airplanes. When inserted into your ears, the earplug hole allows for air to flow in and out, which helps to equalize the pressure.

During take off and landing on an airplane, changes in altitude effect air pressure in the cabin. This can lead to an imbalance that may cause discomfort to your eardrums.

These earplugs protect your ears from sudden shifts in pressure. They can be worn during takeoff and landing, or any time when you feel pressure or discomfort in your ears.

They have with a downloadable app that monitors real-time cabin air pressure. That way you know when to use them.

EarPlanes earplugs are perfect for anyone who experiences ear pressure or discomfort when flying or during other activities that involve changes in air pressure. They are especially helpful for people who have sinus problems or allergies, because these conditions can make it difficult for the ears to adjust to changes in air pressure.

EarPlanes are available in both adult size and children size. They are reusable, so they can be used multiple times.

Pros:

• Relieve ear pressure when flying
• You can use an app to monitor when to use during takeoff and landing, or any time when you feel pressure or discomfort in your ears
• Reusable, so they can be used multiple times

Cons:

• Need to be replaced after two weeks

THE BEST SIDE SLEEPER EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Flents Quiet Please Foam Earplugs

The Flents Quiet Please Foam Earplugs are made of a foam material that makes them super comfortable. These extra soft earplugs are ideal for user who sleep on their side.

They are tapered so that they fit comfortably in your ear canal. They are also re-usable, which makes them a cost-effective option.

They feature a noise reduction rating of 32 decibels. This means that they can effectively reduce the amount of noise that enters your ears to get uninterrupted sleep.

These earplugs come with 6 pairs and come in a box that makes them convenient for bring anywhere.

Pros:

• Made of a soft foam that makes them comfortable to wear
• Ideal for side sleepers
• Tapered so that they fit comfortably in your ear canal

Cons:

• Can not be reused as often as other earplugs on our list

THE BEST SINGLE USE EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Howard Leight by Honeywell MAX-1 Foam Earplugs

The Howard Leight MAX-1 Foam Earplugs are some of the most comfortable earplugs you will ever wear. Their soft foam makes them easy to insert and remove, and their tapered design ensures a snug fit.

These are ideal for sleepers looking for single use earplugs. While it is sanitary to reuse other earplugs, we know that is not for everyone. These come in bulk and at a price point that you can dispose of them after each use.

These are also a good option if you are a loud snorer going on a sleep-over trip. You can bring these to offer to your roommates as a preemptive solution/apology for the loud snoring.

These earplugs also have a noise reduction rating of 33 decibels, making them ideal for use in noisy environments.

Pros:

• Soft foam makes them easy to insert and remove
• Bulk option and price point make them ideal for single use
• Noise reduction rating of 33

Cons:

• More expensive than many other options

THE BEST MULTI PURPOSE EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: 3M E-A-RSoft Yellow Neons Foam Earplugs

The design of the 3M E-A-RSoft Yellow Neons Foam Earplugs is unique because they can be used for a variety of uses in addition to sleeping. They come in a pack of 200 pairs.

While great for sleeping, they are actually designed for people working in construction, drilling, and welding industries.

They are some of the softest and most comfortable earplugs on the market. They are perfect for people who have sensitive ears.

They also come in a bright yellow color, which makes them easy to find.

These earplugs are perfect if you are looking to use earplugs for sleeping in additional to other activities.

Pros:

• Made of foam, which makes them soft and comfortable
• Come in a bright yellow color, which makes them easy to find if you drop them
• Perfect for people who are looking for a multipurpose earplug

Cons:

• Users need to check expiration date on these

THE BEST WAX EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Ohropax Classic Wax Earplugs

The Ohropax Classic Wax Earplugs are made of a soft wax material that is inserted into the ear canal to provide noise reduction when sleeping. They are made of petroleum jelly, cotton wool, and a variety of paraffin waxes.

The unique wax material provides full coverage and reduces noise by fitting snuggly inside your ear canal. They are super comfortable and provide a different fit as compared to foam or silicon earplugs.

These earplugs are great for sleeps who do not like the fit and feeling of foam or silicon earplugs. They are also an ideal choice for those with sensitive ears.

These earplugs come in 6 pairs in a handy reusable storage case.

Pros:

• Made of a soft wax material that is inserted into the ear canal to provide noise reduction
• Provide a unique fit compared to foam and silicon earplugs
• Come with a handy reusable storage case

Cons:

• Can collect dirt if not cared for properly

THE BEST BUDGET EARPLUGS FOR SLEEPING: Moldex Sparkplugs Foam Earplugs

The Moldex Sparkplugs Foam Earplugs are made from soft foam that is designed to be gentle on your ears. Despite the lower price tag per earplug, they work very well.

They expand slowly so you can get a comfortable fit, and they block out noise so you can sleep soundly. They are tapered, which makes them easier to insert into your ear canal. They are comfortable to wear and can be easily inserted and removed.

These earplugs come in different color tie-dye patterns. They are much better looking then the standard earplug (if that matters to you)!

These earplugs are great if you are looking for a budget friendly earplug option.

Pros:

• Made from soft foam that is gentle on the ears
• Expand slowly for a comfortable fit
• Budget friendly with costs a low as 12 cents per earplug

Cons:

• Some users reported that the expanding pressure made ears uncomfortable

What Are the Benefits of Using Earplugs?

There are dozens of benefits that come along with using earplugs to get better sleep. If you aren’t quite sold yet on the idea of getting earplugs, then you may want to keep reading for some of the amazing benefits that you can enjoy when you invest in some high-quality earplugs.

1. They Can Help You Sleep Better

If you have trouble sleeping, then earplugs can help you out. If you are constantly being woken up by outside noise or if you have a partner who snores, then earplugs can help block out that noise so you can finally get some rest.

2. They Can Help Reduce Stress

If you are constantly being bombarded by noise, then it can be tough to relax. By using earplugs, you can block out some of that noise and finally relax. This can help reduce stress and anxiety, and it can also help you get better sleep.

3. They Can Help You Focus

If you are trying to study or work in a noisy environment, it can be tough to focus. But if you use earplugs, you can block out some of that noise and finally get some peace and quiet. This can help you focus on your work and get more done.

4. They Can Help Protect Your Hearing

If you are constantly being exposed to loud noises, it can damage your hearing. But if you use earplugs, you can protect your ears from all that noise. This can help prevent hearing loss and keep your ears healthy.

5. They Are Inexpensive

Earplugs are a very inexpensive way to improve your sleep and your health. They are much cheaper than other methods of noise reduction, and they can be reused over and over again.

6. They Are Easy to Use

Earplugs are very easy to use, and you can take them with you anywhere you go. All you have to do is insert them into your ears, and they will do the rest.

7. They Are Safe

Earplugs are made from soft, safe materials that will not damage your ears. They are also non-addictive and do not have any side effects.

8. They Come in a Variety of Styles

Earplugs come in a variety of styles, so you can choose the ones that are right for you. There are earplugs mostly made from foam, wax, and silicone. And they come in different sizes and shapes to fit any ear.

9. They Can Be Customized

Some earplugs can be customized to fit your specific needs. For example, there are earplugs like the Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs that are designed to have a custom snug fit in your ear canal.

10. They Are Comfortable

Earplugs are very comfortable to wear, and you can wear them for hours at a time. They will not hurt your ears, and most of the time you will not even know they are there.

Buyer’s Guide

Now that you know all the benefits of using earplugs, you may be wondering how to choose the best earplugs for sleeping. There are a few things you should keep in mind when you are shopping for earplugs.

1. The Type of Earplugs

There are a few different types of earplugs on the market, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. The most popular types are foam, silicon, and wax.

Foam earplugs are the most popular type of earplugs, and they are also the most affordable. They are made from soft foam that is designed to expand in your ear canal.

Silicone earplugs are the most expensive type of earplugs, but they are also the most comfortable and effective.

Wax earplugs are not as common, but the final option. They are made from soft wax that is molded to fit your ear canal.

2. The Size of Earplugs

Earplugs come in different sizes, so you will want to choose the size that is right for you. If you have small ears, then you will want to choose earplugs that are smaller in size. And if you have large ears, then you will want to choose earplugs that are larger in size.

3. The Noise Reduction Rating

Earplugs come with a noise reduction rating (NRR), which is a measure of how effective they are at reducing noise. The higher the NRR, the more effective the earplugs will be at reducing noise. The highest NRR rating for earplugs is 33.

You can combine these with earmuff for a higher rating, but you only need that for sleeping if your bed is at a rock concert or next to an ambulance siren.

4. The Style

Earplugs come in a variety of styles, so you will want to choose the style that is right for you. There are earplugs that fit snugly in your ear canal, and there are also earplugs that have a built-in filter to reduce noise even further. The functionality of your earplugs isn’t the only thing that’s important. You want them to look great as well!

5. The Price

Earplug range in price from a few cents to a few hundred dollars. The more expensive earplugs will usually be more comfortable and effective, but they are not always necessary. It really depends on how much noise blocking you want, or whether you simply want to drown out the noise of a snoring partner. The price of the earplugs corresponds to the quality.

Conclusion

There are many types of earplugs on the market. There are specifically designed earplugs for construction, earplugs for concerts, earplugs for swimming and more! Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

To get the highest quality sleep, use a pair of our Athlete Approved earplugs for sleeping.

Now that you know everything that you need to know about shopping for new earplugs for sleeping, you can be confident that you get the most out of whatever pair that you select!