Last updated: January 7th, 2017
There are many different causes of sleep deprivation. One of these is disturbance from some external noise, possibly even your partner snoring. Noise-cancelling earplugs are an excellent solution to this problem, and there are many earplugs for different situations. Below, I have compiled a list of the best earplugs for sleeping. I hope you find one of these sleeping earplug reviews helpful.
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The purpose of this article is to provide reviews on the best earplugs for sleeping so you can make the best decision and rest better. There are two major factors that can affect the suitability of an earplug for sleeping, material used and NRR (Noise Reduction Rating.)
Noise Reduction Rating defines the potential reduction in noise by decibels (dB.) Using a quick example to explain NRR, a train whistle at 500 feet is 90dB. Using an earplug with an NRR of 33 would reduce that down to 57dB, which can be compared to the dB level of a conversation at three feet.
The higher the NRR number, the better you will sleep.
Howard Leight Max Lite Low Pressure
NRR: 30
Material: Foam
If you are looking for the best earplugs for sleeping, the Howard Leight Max Lites Low Pressure earplugs are just for you.
These are built for long-term wear (such as sleeping.)They are made from a low pressure polyurethane foam for enhanced comfort. They are easy to insert and are comfortable, helping you to get a quiet night's sleep.
HEAROS Ultimate Softness Series Foam Earplugs
NRR: 32
Material: Foam
HEAROS is a top rated brand, and they offer an Ultimate Softness foam earplug for sleeping. Additionally, with an NRR of 32, they are one of the highest NRR foam earplugs. The softness makes these great for people with small ear canals and those who are light sleepers.
Made from a super soft proprietary formulation of polyurethane foam, this earplug inserts easily and comfortably into your ear canal. It fits snugly and nicely. Another nice feature is that these earplugs are hypoallergenic, so you don't have to worry about allergies.
Mack's Pillow Soft Silicone
NRR: 22
Material: Soft silicone
If you have tried foam earplugs and don't like the feel of them, then try the best rated silicone earplug, Mack's Pillow Soft Earplugs. This is the most popular moldable silicone earplug in America today.
It is designed to mold to the shape of your ear canal, thereby providing a very snug fit. Made from silicone, it is easily the most comfortable to wear for long periods of time. While an NRR of 22 isn't as high as others, it will still soften harsh sounds, such as a phone ringing or someone snoring.
These earplugs provide a great fit for ear canals of different sizes. As an added benefit, doctors also recommend this earplug to prevent swimmer's ear.
Drift To Sleep Earplugs Moldex
NRR: 33
Material: Foam
If you are looking for the highest rated NRR earplug and don't mind spending some money for a good night's sleep, the Drift To Sleep Ear Plug is your best pick.
Made from soft pvc-free foam, this earplug is one of the best earplugs for snoring because it provides a very high level of noise reduction. It comes in a long tapered design, which allows it to be inserted and removed easily.
Interestingly, although it is a disposable earplug, it has been proven to be very durable. Some users have reported using a pair for up to a month or more. I wouldn't recommend this for sanitary reasons, but it is interesting information to know.
Angel Rest Silicone
NRR: 29
Material: Silicone
The best reusable earplugs for sleeping are the Angel Rest silicone earplugs. Not only do they have an NRR of 29, the company Angel Rest offers FREE REPLACEMENTS FOR LIFE. That is a very strong indication of how long these will last.
Like all silicone earplugs, they are hypoallergenic and safe to use for swimming.
Reminder: no earplug is perfect for every user since our ears are very sensitive and unique. Some people have small ear canals, while others have large ear canals. Do not be afraid to try different foam densities, materials, or brands to find the best earplug for sleeping.
How To Clean Earplugs
Foam earplugs are made to be disposable, so it is highly discouraged to reuse them. If you are looking for a reusable earplug, check out my Angel Rest silicone review above.
To clean silicone earplugs, dish soap and warm water work best. Fill a bowl with warm water, mix in a dab of dish soap until the water is foamy, and soak the ear plugs for 10 seconds; use your fingers or a soft sponge to clean in the crevices. Then, swish them around to shake loose any debris and earwax. Rinse the earplugs under warm water until you are satisfied all soap is removed. Shake them off in the air to help speed up the drying time, and then set them on a clean cloth or paper towel.
How To Insert Earplugs
The best way to learn how to insert foam earplugs is to watch someone else do it. Below is a great video explaining exactly how earplugs should be inserted.
WARNING: To remove ear plugs safely, lift up your ear and slowly twist it out. You want to avoid causing any kind of suction which could damage your eardrum if removed too quickly.
Best Earplugs For Sleeping Conclusion
Now that you have read my review of the top rated earplugs, I hope you can make an informed decision. You can check the size of your ear canal, the amount of sound you want drown out, and how much you are willing to spend on noise-cancelling earplugs. Do you currently use a different set not mentioned here? Let me know in the comments below, and I will be happy to update my review.
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