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Best Earplugs For Sleeping In 2021

Jordan Carter
This product guide was written by Jordan Carter
Published March 22, 2019
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

A good night’s sleep is what keeps our sanity in check and our engines oiled so that we can make it through each day without collapsing from utter exhaustion. For some, however, peaceful nights don’t come as easily and rest is hard to attain. Whether it’s a snoring partner, a noisy neighbor or a dripping faucet that’s keeping you awake, an uninterrupted sleep does not have to remain a daydream. We recommend that you invest in a pair of the best earplugs for sleeping – and problem solved!

While you might be a bit skeptical as you find yourself leaning towards the notion that noise canceling earplugs for sleeping are not going to be the “be all and end all”, you’ll be quite surprised at how potently the right brand and type can work. To reassure you that these tiny bits and bobs can, in fact, live up to their reputation for keeping provoking sounds at bay, we have compiled a list of the most popular makes that are renowned for blocking out noises effectively and efficiently. Feel free to make your pick!

The Best Earplug For Sleeping

1
Vibes High Fidelity Concert Earplugs

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Rather than completely cancel out sound, the Vibes High Fidelity Concert Earplugs, will work to lower frequency and isolate noises so that they are easier on the ear, allowing you to still enjoy music or sounds at your preferred frequency. These state of the art earplugs have been designed with the user in mind, with careful consideration towards the look, feel and style. They are first of all made with a clear outer glass shell, which renders them almost invisible, multiple sizes so that users can choose what size best suits them and should fit into your ears snuggly. These earplugs can be used anywhere, whether it be a music concert or cinema and you should have no problem enjoying your event. They can be worn for many hours at a time and can also be used more than once making this particular pack, cost-effective.

The brand behind this tech, dedicate their vision to making music accessible to anyone safely and comfortable. Vibes also assures individuals with tinnitus, autism, and everyone sensitive to sound in general that wearing these earplugs in noisy environments could make all the difference. With each purchase of this product, customers can also expect a hard pocket-sized carry case, so that the earplugs can be safely stored and carried around from one place to the other. What’s more, this package also comes with interchangeable ear tips. Overall, this product is loved for its invisible look once worn and how well they work to cancel out the excess sound without reducing music quality. Despite the fact that these earplugs are the highest prices on this list, they are an unbeatable option for those of us that want to participate in social events without being overwhelmed by all the sounds.

Key Features:

Reduces decibel levels by 31db 

Glass clear outer shell 

Reusable and washable 

Three interchangeable tips included

Hard carry case included 

Specification:
  • BrandVibes
  • Model1399
  • Weight0.16 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
Decibullz – Custom Molded Earplugs

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What makes these earplugs stand out is the fact that they can be molded to fit into your ears perfectly. The Decibullz – Custom Molded Earplugs are constructed from thermoplastic which makes it possible for them to be molded according to your ear shape. Just melt the earplug with boiling water, wait for it to cool down and then place and mold into your ear shape; if you don’t have the perfect fit the first time it is not a problem at all as they can also be remolded with the same process. The brand Decibullz has consulted audio engineers, material specialists as well as professional athletes, to develop and test their product to ensure that it is the best it could possibly be, and have put all of their expertise into this product.

Furthermore, the Decibullz – Custom Molded earplugs are used for noise isolation, which means noise and sound will not be entirely canceled out so that the user is still able to hear just fine with the earplugs. They can also be used in many situations, whether it is while shooting outdoors, at a concert, at a construction site or to reduce excess travel noise. Purchasers can be sure that this product is a result of thorough testing and expert design.

With every purchase, this product is packaged along with Three sets of triple flange of ranging sizes and for the sake of portability, this product comes with an earplug carrying pouch. The earplugs also come in several colors, including, red, blue, pink and red. It is also relatively effective in minimizing and isolating sound and comes as highly recommended by other users.

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Key Features:

Re-moldable earplugs

Noise isolating

Reduces decibel levels by 31db

Three triple-flange tips included

Earplug carrying pouch included

Specification:
  • BrandDecibullz
  • ModelPLG1BLK
  • Weight0.64 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
Mack’s Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs For Sleeping

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While we often save the best for last, this time around we would like our “best choice” to be listed as our first entry. Mack’s Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs get our whole-hearted thumbs up for being affordable, superbly comfortable, and wonderfully convenient. While they stick to an old-school shape and structure, these foam plugs are perfect for those who do not want to spend money on fancy models but still need an effective means of blocking sound out.

Available in a large tub, quantity is Mack’s name of the game. If you are looking for a disposable solution where you can hand out earplugs to your guests or travel partners, then these versatile, noise canceling earplugs are an ideal fit for sleeping, studying, working, and you name it! With a Noise Reduction Rating of 32 decibels and a medically approved design that features low-pressure and slow release Cush Comfort Foam, these pieces sit in your ears with ease and, if inserted correctly, cause no irritation whatsoever. For a good nights sleep check out our guide to the best memory foam mattresses. 

Key Features:

Pack of 50

Reduces up to 33dB of noise

One-size-fits-all

Soft foam material

Made in the USA

Specification:
  • BrandMack’s
  • Model9250
  • Weight4 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
3M E-A-Rsoft Yellow Neon Blasts Uncorded Earplugs

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The last product on our list takes the price for the highest noise reducing rating, with up to 33db, meaning it is designed to block out all sorts of outside noises. The 3M E-A-Rsoft Yellow Neon Blasts Uncorded Earplugs also take the price for the highest rated product, becoming an easy customer favorite due to its effectiveness and high-quality material. Its soft and pliable foam allows for the plugs to fit and sit comfortably in your ears, most that these plugs are all the same regular size.

This particular purchase comes as a pack of up to 200 super soft noise-canceling earplugs. For more than a century, this brand has been working towards a product that can protect users from excessive noise present in everyday activity. Therefore, this product from 3m is the result of years and years of research and findings to ultimately provide a shield against possible hearing loss, while taking into consideration, quality, value, and consistency. It is no surprise that these earplugs are such a customer favorite, they fit into even the smallest ears, are very comfortable once put in properly, and will properly block any sound from getting in. These are one of the best disposable earplugs money can buy.

Key Features:

Pack of 200

Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) 33dB

Made from polyurethane foam

Regular sized with a tapered shape

Specification:
  • Brand3M Personal Protective Equipment
  • Model70071515079
  • Weight11.2 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Flent’s Quiet Time Earplugs For Sleeping

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If you are looking to make your bustling world a little quieter without forgoing the comfort of natural sleep, then Flent’s 50-pair pack of soft disposable foam earplugs will do the trick. With a Noise Reduction Rating of 33 dB, these nifty plugs were not designed to completely block out all the noise you’ll be exposed to. Instead, it reduces sounds to levels that you will be more comfortable with.

Slightly higher in price than the similar plugs offered by Mack’s, this brand features a snugger fit and softer cushioning. With smooth-surfaced foam that’s delicate enough to not stress or irritate the ear, these ear protectors will allow you to sleep comfortably through the night with little to no disturbances. Perfectly suited for those who still like to be subtly aware of the noises around them, Flent’s Quiet Time Earplugs are also ideal for travelers, industrial workers, and even scholars who prefer to study in calmer atmospheres.

Key Features:

The convenient jar holds 50 pair

Tapered to improve the fit

Made without latex

33 decibel NRR rating

Easy to clean for multiple uses

Specification:
  • BrandFlents
  • Model68001A
  • Weight3.2 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
Mack’s Pillow-Soft Silicone Earplugs For Sleeping

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This compact pack of 6 Silicone earplugs by Mack’s makes a great travel buddy. Small enough to fit in your hand luggage or even your pocket, these budget-friendly tiny devices have the power to reduce noise by 22 decibels. Molding to the unique contours of any ear-shape, the soft and versatile plugs provide a better fit and seal than many other custom-molded designs.

What really stood out to us with this make, is the model’s ability to block out water as well as sound, making them perfect for swimming, water sports or long showers. So, apart from getting a good night’s rest, you can also wear these ear protection plugs to help prevent ear infections that can arise when you spend a lot of time in the water. In fact, Mack’s Pillow-Soft Silicone Earplugs are the official earplugs of most professional USA swimming teams! Our handy guide to the best sleep trackers features more great products like this.

Key Features:

Silicone putty molds to the contours of ears

Reduces noise by 22 dB

Non-toxic and non-allergenic

Waterproof protection

Number one doctor-recommended brand

Specification:
  • BrandMack’s
  • Model7
  • Weight1.6 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
Ear Buddy Soft Foam Premium Earplugs For Sleeping

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Moving on to disposable earplugs that boast more premium qualities than other counterparts, the non-abrasive, higher-grade polyurethane foam material of the plugs designed by Ear Buddy take noise reduction to the next level. Blocking out extremely loud noises to the likes of gun-shots, this 50-pair of soundproof earplugs flaunt a Noise Reduction Rate of 32 decibels.

With a slow rebound time and a snug fit, the Ear Buddies will sit firmly in place as you sleep or even make more abrupt movements as you partake in sports and other active activities. While hearing impairments caused by the use of earplugs is very slim, incorrect use or dirty plugs could lead to infection and the loss of hearing abilities. That is why this brand is appreciated for its quality of ear protection that takes its job seriously. For a premium quality product that gives incredible results, we have no gripes with their marketed price.

Key Features:

Gives protection from all sorts of loud activity

Extremely versatile and durable

Made from soft cushioned foam

Noise reduction rating of 32 dB

Great value for a premium product

Specification:
  • BrandThe Ear Buddy
  • Weight3.2 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Howard Leight’s MAX-1 Foam Earplugs

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Is the neighbor’s dog driving you mad? Perhaps it’s the slight ticking of the clock that has you going dilly? Well, we think that these red little critters by Howard Leight are just what you need to keep annoying sounds a simple earplug away! Bell-shaped for maximum in-ear comfort and contoured for ease of use, the design of the MAX-1 delivers a solid performance that you can depend upon.

Entering the market at an average of £3.5 per 20-piece pack, Howard Leight’s MAX-1 Foam Earplugs for sleeping are the perfect solution to your restless nights. Advertising itself as the world’s most popular polyurethane foam earplug, we have to agree that the Max-1s feature superior noise-blocking abilities despite the fact that they are single-use disposable plugs. And with a smooth and soil-resistant closed cell-foam skin that prevents dirt build-up, this product gets our nod of approval for making hygiene a top priority. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best mattress toppers.

Key Features:

Contoured design for easy application

Noise reduction rating 33 dB

Superior long-wearing comfort

One of the USA’s most popular brands

Soil-resistant closed cell-foam skin

Specification:
  • BrandHoward Leight
  • ModelMAX-1
  • Weight4 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
3M 1100 Foam Ear Plugs

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If your ears are sensitive to more than just sound, you might appreciate the hypo-allergenic materials and antimicrobial foam of the 1100 ear plugs by 3M. Featuring a traditional design, the pack of 200 day or night time plugs are fully disposable but (yes, there’s a “but”) with a noise reduction rating of only 29 dB, convenience precedes the performance. Unlike many other similar brands, however, the 3Ms are made from a stiffer foam – this makes them easier to insert and allows for a tighter and snug fit.

If you’re looking for a basic earplug that gets the job done without the fuss, then we can definitely recommend the 3M 1100s. They are easy on the pocket, comfortable to wear, and are efficient enough for an uninterrupted night’s sleep. Providing maximum comfort and low pressure inside the ear, these dirt-resistant molded earplugs are both safe to use and keep ear infections at bay. You may also like to check our guide to t00he best travel pillows.

Key Features:

Easy to roll down for quick and instant fitting

Tapered design fits comfortably in ear canals

Hypoallergenic foam

Dirt-resistant surface

Disposable plugs

Specification:
  • Brand3M
  • Model1100
  • Weight10.2 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Moldex Pura-Fit Tapered Foam Plugs

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If green’s your color then the Pura-Fits might just appeal to your senses in both sight and sound. While the bright color of these plugs hint that they have been designed for construction workers and the likes, they’re still perfectly adequate for sleeping with too. Flaunting one of the higher noise reduction ratings, 33 dB to be exact, this model is highly regarded for its tapered shape that molds seamlessly to your ear.

Comfortable ear plugs can be hard to come by and are often judged by their marketed price, that is, the more expensive a product is, the higher you expect the quality to be. The Moldex Pura-Fits, however, provide reliable performance while keeping to an extremely competitive rate – they provide more than their money’s worth. These little critters also get our thumbs up for their non-irritating smooth surface and the biodegradable paper pouches that they come packaged in.

Key Features:

Made from soft, low-pressure foam

Seals the canals gently

Features a longer length for easy fit and removal

NRR is rated at 33 dB

The bright color meets compliance checks

Specification:
  • BrandMoldex-Metric Inc.
  • Model6800
  • Weight0.16 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

11
Mpow Foam Earplugs

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With a remarkably high noise reduction rating value of 34 decibels, the Mpow Foam Earplugs make the cut for being one of the most potent disposable noise-masking plugs on our list. Superbly hygienic and perfectly portable, they are tender and gentle on ears, keeping comfort in mind as they reduce or completely block out harassing sounds and the hustle and bustle of life in general.

Made from a premium PU foam material, these nifty little plugs compress and expand easily so that they conform to the contours of your ears, increasing their potency and adding to their gentle touch. Both economical and versatile in nature, these noise reducing plugs can be used in numerous scenarios, including relaxation, concerts, studying, and even target-shooting.

Key Features:

Ultra-soft and low-pressure

60 pairs of earplugs per pack

Safe and hygienic

Packed in a clean aluminum casing

Noise reduction rating value of 34 dB

Specification:
  • BrandMpow
  • ModelPAMPHP055AG-USAS2
  • Weight5.9 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

12
ANBOW Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs

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We’ve featured a lot of disposable earplugs on this list already so we thought we’d balance things out. ANBOW Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs are (you guessed it) reusable. You get three pairs that come in their own separate plastic cases, as well as a bonus waterproof pouch. Made from high-grade silicone, they’re comfortable inside your ear, non-irritating to skin, and will last for years. To wash them, you just need to run them under the tap and leave them to dry. They provide level NRR 32 (Noise Reduction Rating), which means they reduce the decibels by 32dB. 

One of the main benefits of ANBOW Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs is that one of the pairs comes with a cord to wear around your neck. This ensures that you don’t lose the plugs if you have to take them out. The other two are cordless, which makes them perfect as spares. This set of earplugs is one of the highest-rated on Amazon, so we’re confident you’ll be happy with their performance.

Key Features:

NRR 32 (Noise Reduction Rating) 

Three pairs (one corded and two cordless) 

Made from high-grade silicone

Bonus waterproof pouch

Plastic cases included

Specification:
  • BrandANBOW
  • ModelSERP001
  • Weight1 ounce
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Earplugs For Sleeping Buying Guide

Materials - Foam, Silicone, Wax - Earbuds for sleeping come in a variety of shapes and sizes - they are also made from different materials. Foam types can be compressed or rolled and inserted into the ear canal where they then expand again. Silicone makes are rolled into balls and then mold to the external area of the ear canal. Wax models can also be molded into place. Foam earplugs are far more common than wax and silicone options, although they are not as durable as the two aforementioned types.

Size - The size of an earplug depends greatly on the materials it has been made from. Foam plugs, for instance, are often larger but they can be molded to a smaller size before you insert them into your ear canal. They then expand again to completely cover your inner ear. The same goes for wax earplugs, although they do not take on their original shape but instead fit the contours of your inner ear. Silicone makes are generally smaller in size but mimic the shape of your inner ear canal to give a secure and comfortable fit.

Application - The thing with earplugs is that for a pair to work well, the pieces need to be inserted correctly. So, the easier they are to apply, the more likely they will adjust to your ear canals accurately. Some designs can be compressed at the point of application and then expand to fill your ear. Others require a more precise insertion to fit comfortably and reduce noise levels.

Multiple Uses - Whether you require earplugs for snoring, a visit to a construction site, or a trip to the shooting-range, each model has different capabilities, safety features and, noise reduction rates. The more sound you would like to block out, the higher the NNR needs to be and if you intend on using the plugs for swimming, then a water-resistant brand is definitely a “must”.Many foam and silicone earplug models are reusable, although they are preferably designed for one-time use only.

Sound Reduction - Earplugs for sleeping are not designed to completely block out sounds. Instead, they reduce the noise levels so that they are not as disturbing or annoying. Noise reduction ratings are measured in decibels and the higher the rating the more the sound the plugs will block out. To ensure that earplugs reduce sound efficiently, then it’s also important to remember that they need to be inserted and sized correctly for ultimate use.

Earplugs

Health Risks Of Using Sleeping Earplugs

Ear Infections - Individuals who use earplugs regularly may become susceptible to ear infections if they do not clean their plugs correctly or often enough. Failure to keep the plugs in a hygienic state will give bacteria an opportunity to accumulate, infesting one’s ear as a result. Foam is particularly conducive to bacteria build-up. This is why most earplugs are designed for one-time use only.

To keep re-usable plugs clean, all you need to do is submerge them in warm water and wash the dirt and wax away. Place them on a towel and use them again once they have dried thoroughly.

Reduced Hearing - Apart from effectively reducing annoying outside noises, earplugs can also pose a risk by preventing wearers from hearing certain sounds that they might want to hear, like an alarm, a family member calling for help, or a phone ringing with important news. Furthermore, if earplugs are not worn correctly or if they tend to give one ear infection, then there is always a slim chance that they could cause indefinite hearing impairments.

Jordan Carter
Jordan Carter
Jordan Carter is Gear Hungry's resident Editor-in-Chief with a genuine love and passion for all things tech. Jordan works diligently to ensure only the best products ever make it onto the platform and are showcased in Gear Hungry's carefully curated, tested and expertly researched, informative buying guides.
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