Earplugs are a simple, inexpensive method of blocking noises that disrupt sleep. These may include traffic or other outside sounds, as well as snoring bed partners or noisy travel environs (such as airplanes or trains). Earplugs are designed to compress into smaller shapes, and then re-expand when fitted into the ear canal for maximum noise reduction. They come in a wide range of shapes to accommodate users with different bodily dimensions and preferences.
Most earplugs are made from either foam or silicone, though select models are made of wax. The majority of earplugs are designed for one-time use; reusable models are also available, but need to be regularly cleaned in order to prevent contamination and reduce risk of an ear infection.
Best Earplugs for Sleeping
- Editor’s Pick-Bell shape PU foam earplugs
- Best Value-Regular bullet PU foam earplugs
- Best Silicone Earplugs-Silicone earplugs for swimming
- Best Wax Earplugs-Eastragon wax cotton earplugs
The Best Earplugs for Sleeping -Reviewed
Bell shape PU foam earplugs
Our Editor’s Pick, the bell shape Earplugs from Eastragon, offer a complete package for customers: effective noise blockage, comfortable fit, and low price-point even by earplug standards. These earplugs are made from soft, slow-recovery polyurethane foam and formed in a twistable bell shape that forms a tight, secure seal to block out most sounds. They are also designed to remain in place; other earplugs tend to back out of the ear canal rather easily.
Regular bullet PU foam earplugs
They are made from soft polyurethane foam and shaped in a long cylinder that ensures a comfortable fit and easy removal for most users. Foam Earplugs are designed for single use.
GOOD FOR:
- Sleepers seeking a high level of noise reduction
- Those who prefer cylindrical earplugs
Silicone earplugs for swimming
Silicone earplugs have certain advantages, such as reusability and exceptional comfort. The Eastragon Soft Silicone Earplugs are a standout in this category for several reasons. One is moldability; These earplugs carry a noise reduction rating of 22 – typical of silicone plugs – which makes them suitable for sleepers seeking moderate, but not industrial-strength, noise blockage.
Eastragon wax cotton earplugs
Like silicone gel earplugs, wax earplugs are a popular alternative to foam because they are highly moldable and form a more secure seal around ear canals. However, wax earplugs are fairly uncommon and, when available, tend to carry relatively high price-points. The Eastragon Wax Earplugs, our top pick in this category, putting them on par with most silicone options. Remember to remove the outermost layer of cotton before use.
Important Considerations for Earplug Shoppers
When shopping for earplugs for sleeping and comparing different brands and models, here are a few factors to keep in mind:
- What size is your ear/ear canal? Most earplugs are designed to fit all ear and/or ear canal sizes, but some may be too narrow or wide for certain users.
- What shape are the earplugs? Whether cylindrical, bell-shaped, T-shaped, or moldable, the choice of shape often comes down to personal preference.
- What material are the earplugs? Foam earplugs are far more common and lower-priced than other earplug options, but not as durable as wax or silicone models.
- What is the Noise Reduction Rating? The NRR for most earplugs falls between 20 and 34, but models with an SNR of 28 or higher are considered the most effective.
- Are the earplugs reusable? The per-pair price-point of reusable earplugs will be considerably higher than that of one-time-use models.