The Best Earplugs for Sleeping with a Snorer

Sleeping with a snorer can be a nightmare. The constant noise can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling exhausted the next day. While there are a lot of options for snorers to reduce their snoring, there’s no guarantee they will work. As the person who is trying to sleep beside a snorer, there’s a few options for managing your own rest.  

Earplugs are a simple and effective way to block out the sound of a snorer and get a good night's sleep. In this article, we will explore the best earplugs for sleeping with a snorer, their features, and how they can help you get the restful sleep you deserve.

In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind how earplugs work and how they can be an effective solution for dealing with snoring. We will also talk about some other things you can use to help get the rest you need. 

 

Are there any ear plugs that block all noise?

The first thing people usually ask when looking for earplugs is which are the ear plugs that block all sound?

But the question that is more helpful to use is which ear plugs block the most noise?

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. 

What Snoring Changes in your Sleep  

The beauty of good sleep is that you know when you got it. You hop out of bed with ease, experience sustained energy levels and minimal anxiety throughout the day, maintain a calmer and less emotional demeanor, and generally feel great all the way until your head hits the pillow again.

From a more scientific standpoint, as explained by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, these benefits are the result of spending enough time in each of the four stages of sleep, which include:

• Stage 1: You can think of this stage as entering into the theatre of sleep, wherein your heartbeat, breathing, eye moments, muscles, and brain waves begin to relax. 
• Stage 2: This stage is similar to the preview before the movie. You experience further relaxation across your body, a drop in temperature, and your eyes stop moving altogether. 
• Stage 3: With the movie about to begin, your heartbeat, breathing, and brain waves slow to their lowest levels during this stage of sleep. You’re also the most difficult to awaken during this stage. This is where you reap the majority of physical restorative benefits of sleep, in part due to the increased release of growth hormone. 
• REM: If Stage 3 is the movie itself, REM sleep is the bonus scene after the movie is finished. Taking place about an hour and a half after falling asleep, REM is where you experience dreaming, temporary paralysis of your limbs (to prevent you from acting out your dreams in real life), and increased consolidation of memory. REM becomes more and more precious as you age, as you spend less and less time in it the older you become.

It takes your body about 90 minutes to successfully cycle through all of these 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.

But all of this changes with snoring–both for you and your partner. In this case, both you and your partner can be woken up multiple times (your partner might not even realize they are waking), and frequent wake periods reduce the duration and depth of your sleep cycles. 

If you’re interested in how your hearing works, try:

The Ultimate guide to Choosing Earplugs

What are the best earplugs to cancel out noise?

Sound is measured in decibel levels, so we can actually measure how loud snoring is. Studies have shown that the noise level of snoring can reach 60dB’s, which is about the same level as an alarm clock.This is not harmful to your hearing (it has to be over 80dB and longer than 10 minutes of exposure for that!). But when you sleep next to a snorer, being woken by their alarm clock snoring is not only annoying but also harmful to your health.

Studies have shown that exposure to loud snoring can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke. By using earplugs, you can protect yourself from these health risks and ensure a peaceful night's sleep. The best noise canceling earplugs for sleeping are going to be the ones that lower the most amount of decibels, enabling you to sleep and prevent future health problems. 

Looking for best earplugs for noise reduction at concerts instead of sleep? Cutting Through the Noise: The Ultimate Guide to Best Earplugs for Concerts

Features to Look for to find the best Earplugs for Sleeping with a Snorer

While much of using earplugs is an individual experience, when choosing earplugs for sleeping with a snorer, there are several key features to consider. These features will determine how effective the earplugs are at blocking out sound and how comfortable your noise canceling earplugs for sleeping 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 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. 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. 

In addition to the NRR, you should also consider the frequency range that the earplugs can block. Some earplugs are more effective at blocking certain frequencies than others. For example, foam earplugs are generally more effective at blocking high-frequency sounds, while wax or silicone earplugs are better at blocking low-frequency sounds.

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 will be wearing earplugs while you sleep, 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, does wearing earplugs damage your ears? Especially if you’re considering that you’re putting something in your ears for hours each night. But wearing earplugs won’t damage your ears–however you want to be careful to wear earplugs that fit you and don’t push them deep into your ears. Make sure you remove them if you experience any discomfort! 

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.

Sleeping with Earplugs Side Effects

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. 

If you’re wondering does sleeping with earplugs help tinnitus, check out this blog post from someone who deals with tinnitus. 

Why are EARPEACE earplugs different? 

In short? Our three patents. We are the only earplugs on the market with this many patents and this advanced of a product. 

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. This technology we’ve developed advances the experience of wearing earplugs, ensuring you have the most comfortable wearing experience possible, while the filter options can be tailored to your situational needs. Our SLEEP earplug marries the patented design with a full block filter that is rated for 30db’s. 

Alternative to Earplugs for Sleeping

Let’s be real, you’re looking for solutions. Earplugs might be enough, but just in case you need to increase their effectiveness, here are some 

Sleep in Separate Rooms

Sleeping is not ideal in a romantic partnership, but physically separating sleeping spaces allows the snorer to sleep comfortably while the partner can enjoy a peaceful night's rest. For the snorer, sleeping in a separate room can provide a sense of relief from the guilt or pressure they may feel for disturbing their partner's sleep. It also allows them to sleep without feeling self-conscious or embarrassed about their snoring.

While sleeping in separate rooms can be an effective solution for some couples, it is important to consider the potential impact on intimacy and emotional connection. It is crucial to maintain open communication and find alternative ways to spend quality time together.

Sleeping in separate rooms may not be a suitable option for all couples, and that’s fine. There are other options!

Use White Noise Machines or Apps

Using white noise machines or white noise apps can be an effective way to mask the sound of snoring and help you sleep better. White noise is a type of sound that contains all frequencies at equal intensity, which can help drown out the snoring noise and create a more soothing environment for sleep.

White noise machines are standalone devices that produce a continuous sound of static or a variety of soothing sounds like rain, waves, or fan noise. These machines can be placed in your bedroom and adjusted to your preferred volume and sound type. Some popular white noise machine brands include LectroFan, Marpac, and Adaptive Sound Technologies.

Alternatively, you can also use white noise apps on your smartphone or tablet. These apps offer a wide range of white noise sounds that you can choose from, and they often come with additional features like timers and the ability to mix different sounds together. Some popular white noise apps include White Noise Lite, Sleepo, and Relax Melodies.

Try Anti-Snoring Devices

Anti-snoring devices are devices designed to reduce or eliminate the sound of snoring and improve sleep quality for both the snorer and their partner. These devices work by addressing the underlying causes of snoring, such as nasal congestion, mouth breathing, or improper jaw alignment.

Some common types of anti-snoring devices include:

1. Nasal Dilators: These devices are inserted into the nostrils to improve airflow and reduce nasal congestion. They help keep the nasal passages open, allowing for easier breathing and reducing snoring.
2. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): MADs are oral appliances that are worn in the mouth during sleep. They work by repositioning the lower jaw slightly forward, which helps to open the airway and reduce snoring. MADs are custom-made by a dentist or can be purchased over-the-counter.
3. Tongue Stabilizing Devices (TSDs): TSDs are small, flexible devices that hold the tongue in a forward position during sleep. By preventing the tongue from collapsing backward and blocking the airway, TSDs can help reduce snoring.
4. Chin Straps: Chin straps are worn around the head and chin to keep the mouth closed during sleep. They are beneficial for individuals who snore due to mouth breathing. By keeping the mouth closed, chin straps encourage breathing through the nose, reducing snoring.
5. Positional Therapy Devices: These devices are designed to encourage sleeping in a specific position that helps prevent snoring. For example, a device worn around the waist can discourage sleeping on the back, which is often associated with snoring.

It's important to note that while anti-snoring devices can be effective for many individuals, they may not work for everyone. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or sleep specialist to determine the most suitable anti-snoring device for your specific situation.

The Best Ear Plugs are the Ones You Wear

Sleeping with a snorer doesn't have to be a nightmare. By using the right earplugs, you can block out the noise and get the restful sleep you deserve. When choosing earplugs for sleeping with a snorer, look for features such as a high NRR, comfort, durability, and ease of use. With EARPEACE earplugs, you can finally get a good night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.