Canceling Insomnia: Our Guide to the Best Noise Canceling Earplugs for Sleeping 

It’s amazing how something as simple as sleep can get so complicated and difficult. Getting a good night's sleep is essential for our overall well-being, Nearly 40% of adults report falling asleep during the day without meaning to at least once a month, and an estimated 50 to 70 million Americans struggle with sleep disorders.

Whether it's a snoring partner, loud neighbors, or street traffic, noise disturbances can disrupt our sleep and leave us feeling tired and groggy the next day. So let’s cancel the insomnia and talk through everything you need to know to choose the best noise canceling earplugs for sleeping. After all, you don’t need to do any more late night googling, you need to actually get some sleep and wake up refreshed.

Is it bad to sleep with noise canceling ear plugs?

Let’s just get this out of the way. No. And more so, it could be harmful not to use them if it means you get a good night's sleep. Sleep is not just a time for our bodies to rest, it's also a time for our brains to process and store information from the day. Lack of sleep can lead to a variety of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and depression. It’s crucial we get a good night's sleep every night.

It takes your body about 90 minutes to successfully cycle through all of the sleep stages, and for most people to feel like they got a good sleep, according to the world’s leading elite sport sleep coach Nick Littehales, they require 5 full cycles–or 7 hours and 30 minutes–of sleep.

In most cases, 5 full cycles allow your body enough time to restore physically and mentally, consolidate memories from the day, and wake up feeling ready to tackle a new day–all necessary things for a productive and happy life. 

So while you might worry,  is it ok to sleep with earplugs every night? You should worry more about the effects of not getting the sleep your body needs. 

If you’re interested in more about how your hearing works, try Everything You'd Ever Want to Know About Earplugs Made Simple

Why do you need noise-canceling earplugs for sleeping?

Our brains are wired to be alert to potential threats, even when we are asleep. When we hear loud or sudden noises, our brain triggers a fight-or-flight response, which can disrupt our sleep cycle. Noise-canceling earplugs help to block out these external noises, allowing us to sleep more peacefully and deeply.

Do ear plugs work for sleeping?

Noise-canceling earplugs work by using a material that absorbs sound waves, reducing the amount of noise that reaches our ears. This can help to create a quieter environment, making it easier for us to fall asleep and stay asleep. Consistent sleep leads to improved sleep quality, which can have a positive impact overall health, including: 

1. Improved Sleep Quality (through all five cycles)
2. Increased Focus and Concentration
3. Stress and Anxiety Reduction

Are there any ear plugs that block all noise?

It’s one of the first things people ask– is there ear plugs that block all sound for sleeping?

But the question that is more helpful to use when looking for the best earplugs for sleeping is which ear plugs block the most noise?

Noise is measured in decibel levels (dB). Ambient noise levels while trying to sleep can reach 

Earplugs cannot block all the noise. They can drastically reduce the sound you hear, but even if it were possible to block all sound, you wouldn’t want to for safety reasons. While sleeping you still need to be able to hear in case of an emergency, like a fire. Rest assured, finding the right earplugs will block a lot of the noise that is preventing you from sleeping, but it cannot block all noise. You will still hear things like alarms, barking dogs and if a television is on. 

LDEN is the day–evening–night noise level, a European standard to express noise levels over an entire day. Similarly, LNIGHT is the noise indicator for the night. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reducing noise levels to 45 dB for LNIGHT noise exposure. 45dB is about the level of a babbling brook or a computer fan in the same room. Not very loud!

If you’re struggling to sleep with a snorer, try reading 

Turning Down the Noise: The Best Earplugs for Sleeping with a Snorer

Factors to consider when choosing noise canceling earplugs for sleeping

Now here’s what makes things tricky. Using earplugs for sleeping is an individual experience and there are several key features to consider. These features will determine how effective the earplugs are at blocking out sound and how comfortable they are to wear. Here are some features to look for:

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)

The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a measure of how much sound an earplug can block out. The best earplugs for noise reduction have a higher NRR rating. The higher the NRR, the more effective the earplugs are at reducing noise. 

For sleeping, you will want to look for earplugs with an NRR of at least 30 decibels for optimal sound blocking. (Compare this to a recommended filter of 20dB reduction for noise canceling earplugs for work). For earplugs with filters, you’ll be looking for an earplug with an option for a “full block” filter at least 30dB’s. These aren’t like the filter and ear plugs that allow you to hear conversation, as they “block” the sound instead. Just remember, there are no ear plugs that block all sound. 

Comfort

In order for the earplugs to effectively reduce the sound, they need to create a complete seal when they sit inside your ear. Think of that “sealing” feeling when a foam earplug expands in your ear, but without any leaks or holes. This is frequently why people find ear plugs uncomfortable as the pressure against your inner ear can become irritating. Since you are needing  earplugs for sleeping, it's especially important that they are comfortable to wear. 

Look for earplugs made from soft and hypoallergenic materials that won't irritate your ears. Additionally, consider the shape and size of the earplugs to ensure a snug and secure fit. We think our earplugs are the best earplugs for sleeping because they have three patents for the special shape, which is designed specifically to reduce contact points with your ear without breaking the seal. But we understand that a lot of this can come down to preference and if ours don’t work, try a different shape!

Lastly, you should also consider the temperature and humidity of your sleeping environment. Some materials, like foam, can become uncomfortable in hot or humid conditions. On the other hand, wax or silicone earplugs can be more comfortable in these conditions as they do not absorb moisture.

Durability

Earplugs can be easily lost or damaged, so it's important to choose a pair that is durable and long-lasting. Look for earplugs made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and cleaning.

While not necessary, it’s also helpful to consider the packaging and storage options for the earplugs. Some earplugs come with a carrying case or other storage options that can help protect them from dust, damage and make them easier to find on your bedside table. 

Ease of Use

Some earplugs can be difficult to insert and remove, especially if you are new to using them. Look for earplugs that are easy to insert and remove, with clear instructions on how to properly use them.

You might wonder, are there any sleeping with earplugs side effects? Especially if you’re considering that you’re putting something in your ears for hours each night. But wearing earplugs won’t cause any side effects, except hopefully, a great nights sleep!

Finally, consider the maintenance and cleaning requirements of the earplugs. Some earplugs, like foam ones, are disposable and should be replaced regularly. Others, like wax or silicone earplugs, can be cleaned and reused.

The only side effect of sleeping with earplugs should be a good night sleep! But if you wake and find your ears are sore, you might want to consider trying a different type of earplug. 

Wondering if sleeping with earplugs help tinnitus, check out this blog post from someone who deals with tinnitus. 

Not sure yet? Here are some alternative to earplugs for sleeping

Don’t overthink it! You can try earplugs and any of these other helpful suggestions, creating the perfect sleep atmosphere for you to have your best rest. 

1. Establish a bedtime routine: Develop a consistent routine before bed to signal to your body that it's time to sleep. This can include activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques.
2. Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make sure your bedroom is conducive to sleep. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or a fan to block out any unwanted noise. Don’t do your work in the bedroom or sleep space if you can help it. 
3. Limit exposure to screens before bed: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your sleep. Try to avoid using screens, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, at least one hour before bedtime.
4. Avoid stimulants: Limit your consumption of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, as they can disrupt your sleep patterns. It's best to avoid consuming these substances close to bedtime.
5. Exercise regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity during the day can help promote better sleep at night. However, avoid exercising too close to bedtime, as it can make it harder to fall asleep.
6. Manage stress: Stress and anxiety can interfere with sleep. Try to manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling before bed.
7. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and promotes better sleep quality.

Everyone's sleep needs are different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you.

Why are EARPEACE SLEEP earplugs different? 

In short? Our three patents. We are the only earplugs on the market with this many patents. 

Our patents are both for utility and design–meaning we’ve created something no one has and no one else can replicate that improves the utility (use) of wearing earplugs and the design of how earplugs work. The bottom line is our earplugs are designed to be more comfortable than any other earplugs you’ve tried. Our SLEEP earplug marries our patented design with a full block filter that is rated for 30db’s. 

Wondering how our hearing and health work together? Try 

Our Ultimate Guide to Earplugs 

Here are some answers to other common questions:

Which earplugs block out the most noise?

EARPEACE SLEEP blocks up to 30dB and is our highest blocking earplug. 

Why aren't my earplugs blocking noise?

One reason could be fit. For earplugs to reduce noise, they need to create a complete seal inside your ear, without any leaks. If the standard size earplugs don’t create that seal, try using our small tips. 

What are the best earplugs to cancel out noise?

The best earplugs are the ones you wear that feel comfortable all night and have a high dB rating. Earplugs can be so individual that it’s important to find your perfect fit. 

If you’re trying to choose between concert earplugs, try: 

Cutting Through the Noise: The Ultimate Guide to Best Earplugs for Concerts

Conclusion

Getting a good night's sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being. Noise-canceling earplugs for sleeping can help create a serene slumber environment by blocking out external noises. When choosing the best noise-canceling earplugs, consider factors such as noise reduction rating, comfort, size and fit, durability, and ease of cleaning. Invest in a pair of noise-canceling earplugs and enjoy a tranquil sleep every night.

Final thoughts

Investing in a pair of noise-canceling earplugs can be a game-changer for your sleep quality. By blocking out external noises, they can help to create a peaceful sleep environment, allowing you to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. So why wait? Start enjoying a tranquil sleep every night with a pair of noise-canceling earplugs.