Does the noise coming into your bedroom disturb your sleep? Does your partner’s snoring sound like Vesuvius erupting? Are you so sleep-deprived that you wake up planning a nap? Noise-canceling ear muffs might be your salvation.
These inexpensive sleep accessories can help make your sleep quiet, more restful, and peaceful. Available in multiple designs and configurations, there is something for anyone who needs more peace and quiet in her/his life. Not to mention more quality sleep.
Here are some of the best noise-canceling ear muffs, along with some other sleep help suggestions.
| Top 6 Best Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs | Why It's Best | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Headband | Versatile head band & sleep mask. Thin Bluetooth speakers. Washable. One size fits all. 1 year warranty. | ★★★★★ |
| Hibermate Ear Muffs for Sleeping | NRR of 15 - 20 decibels. Machine washable. Blackout mask. Made of medical grade silicone/sound absorbing foam. | ★★★★★ |
| Wrap-a-Nap Travel Pillow, Sleep Mask, Ear Muff | NRR of 25 - 35 decibels. Fully machine washable. Adjustable. USA made. Children's sizes available. | ★★★★★ |
| ProCase Noise Reduction Ear Muffs | NRR of 29 decibels. Large ear cups. Over-the-head headband. Versatile - sleeping, construction DIY, etc. | ★★★★★ |
| Becheln Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs | NRR of 32 decibels. One size fits all. Soft high grade silicone. Washable and reusable. 10 per pack. | ★★★★★ |
| Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Ear Plugs | NRR of 33 decibels. Soft, expandable foam. 50 pairs per jar. USA made. Inexpensive. | ★★★★★ |
10 Best Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs For Sleeping
There are many different types of noise cancelling ear muffs available. I have tried to include many of the best of the various styles.
1) MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Headband
The MUSICOZY Sleep Headphones Bluetooth Headband combines noise cancelling with Bluetooth technology to give you multiple options for peaceful sleep. Listen to music, white noise, or whale mating noises–whatever will lull you to sleep. The speakers are ultra thin making it an excellent choice for side sleepers. Doubles as a sleep mask to prevent any type of light from disturbing your sleep.
Made of soft comfortable spandex and mesh it is light and breathable, moisture wicking, and also hand washable. (Speakers are enclosed in a fully water proof case.) You can even clean off the speakers while cleaning the headband. It is also an excellent exercise headband with a built in microphone usable for taking calls.
One size fits most heads (over 5 years old). A 1 – 2 hour quick charge of the lithium ion battery will produce up to 10 hours of playing time. Available in multiple colors.
Note: MUSICOZY manufactures many other types and styles of Bluetooth ready headgear including beanies (tuque where I come from).
The Good
- Versatile headband to keep out noise
- Bluetooth speakers provide music or soothing sounds to induce sleep
- Breathable fabric
- Hand washable
- Can also be used as a sleep mask
- One size fits all
- 1 year full return warranty
The Not so Good
- Some complaints about the voice in your ear saying ‘connected’ in the middle of the night
According to one reviewer, Amazon carries about 20 types of sleep headphone earmuffs that are identical. Except for the names, and maybe available colors. (I did not count them.) Even though I like the design, versatility, and warranty, it did not seem reasonable to list more than one of these identical products.
2) Hibermate Earmuffs for Sleeping
The Hibermate Earmuffs for Sleeping has a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 15 – 20 decibels. These sleeping earmuffs include a blackout mask for light-free sleeping–in bed, when traveling, or for shift workers trying to sleep during daylight hours. Earmuffs are detachable if a person just needs to use a mask.
The straps are easily adjustable to fit almost any head size. It is completely machine washable making it easy to keep clean and sanitary. The earmuffs and mask will feel warm and cozy in the winter, yet breathe for cool summer use. Designed by USA and Australian partners, the earmuffs are a classic donut shape made of medical-grade silicone and sound-absorbing foam. This Hibermate earmuff/mask also comes with its own drawstring carry bag making it a good travel companion.
The Good
- Noise Reduction Rating of 15 – 20 decibels
- Fully machine washable
- Includes blackout mask – earmuffs are detachable for mask only use
- USA/Australian design
- Made of medical-grade silicone/sound-absorbing foam
- Carry bag included for convenient traveling
- 60 day money-back guarantee
The Not so Good
- Can be a little uncomfortable for side sleepers
3) Pure Enrichment® Wave™ Sound Therapy Eye Mask
The Pure Enrichment® Wave™ Sound Therapy Eye Mask is, at first glance, a little bit goofy looking. But do not let that deter you from considering it for quiet, dark, and comfortable sleeping. With white noise, it provides excellent sound attenuation. And the plush minky fleece outer shell is filled with synthetic down (the same product used in 5 star hotel pillows). These are truly comfortable for any type of sleep position.
This versatile pillow is travel-friendly, soft, Bluetooth compatible, and has built-in white noise. It’s easy to clean with spot treatment and has easy touch buttons. Also easy to pack for travel because it can be rolled up into a 5″ x 5″ package. It is designed for the average-sized head, but the 10″ Velcro straps allow for lots of adjustment. They also make children’s size Wraps, although they are not recommended for anyone under 6 years old.
The Good
- Built-in white noise
- Quilted and extra soft
- Versatile – noise attenuation, sleep mask, pillow
- Adjustable to fit most size heads
- Plenty of nose room
- Bluetooth Enables
- 5 Year Warranty
The Not so Good
- Loud battery warning
4) Procase Noise Reduction Ear Muffs
If you are a side sleeper, you can probably quit reading about these Procase Noise Reduction Ear Muffs now. But if you sleep on your back or nap in the La-Z-Boy (like I do), you will find them to be the cat’s meow. With a 29-decibel Noise Reduction Rating, these earmuffs will make sleeping in bed or napping a much more quiet and peaceful experience.
The ear cups are large and comfortable with 2 layers of sound dampening foam. Breathable and skin-friendly imitation leather inside the cups provides all night, or all day, comfort. They use pressure diffuser technology to provide maximum comfort with little weight. An adjustable flexible over the head band makes it a fit for most head sizes. Small, light, and easy to pack for a trip.
These earmuffs are very versatile and can be used in construction settings, for yard work, or DIY projects. They come with a 90 day limited warranty.
Note: Procase also makes many styles of children’s ear protectors.
The Good
- 29 decibel Noise Reduction Rating
- Large breathable ear cups
- Imitation leather interior
- Adjustable over-the-head headband
- Versatile – good for construction, shooting, yard work, DIY
- 90 day limited warranty
The Not so Good
- Not good for side sleepers
- Some reports that they do not adjust enough for bigger heads
5) CozyPhones Sleep Ear Muffs With Headphones
CozyPhones Sleep Ear Muffs With Headphones are a light comfortable headband contoured to dip down over the ears. Although it is not designed as a sleep mask (contoured instead), the part that fits over your forehead can be pulled down over your eyes. This earmuff comes with wired speakers that are compatible with almost any device, giving you many options when choosing sound to lull you to sleep.
The speakers are small and very thin (1/8″) and adjustable inside the mesh lining to get a good fit to your ears. The fleece/mesh combination headband is machine washable–just remove the headphones, throw it in the machine, dry, and it is clean and fresh. A 52″ cord is braided to prevent kinks, twists, or breaking, and is long enough to reach your device.
To eliminate the possibility of chewing on the cord or getting tangled up, run the cord over the top of your pillow and head of the bed.
Note: CozyPhones makes many kids earmuffs, including designs for children with Autism and Sensory Disorders.
The Good
- Contoured to fit over the ears
- Thin speakers (only 1/8″ thick) – good for side sleepers
- Compatible with most devices
- Machine washable – not including speakers
- 52″ long braided, kink-free cord
- 30 day unconditional 100% money-back guarantee
The Not so Good
- Some reports of the speakers moving around a bit.
6) Sprigs Earbags Bandless Ear Muffs
Although technically not noise cancelling earmuffs, the Sprigs Earbags Bandless Ear Muffs can easily be used for sleeping. Especially if you only need a little extra sound abatement when going to sleep. With a fleece interior lining and a double layer of Thinsulate wind-blocking material, they will add some peace to your sleeping. The fleece makes for a comfortable ear covering. For extra quiet, add a pair of soft foam earplugs to enjoy a peaceful sleep.
A big advantage to using Sprigs Earbags as a sleep aid is the lack of bands, cords, or pressure some headband styles exert on your head–making them ideal for anyone with long hair who hates having something compress her/his locks. Available in 3 sizes and multiple colors, there is one to fit your needs.
The Good
- Soft fleece material
- Individual ear covering
- No straps, bands, wires
- Available in 3 sizes
- Available in multiple colors
- 30 day money back guarantee if ordered from Sprigs website/15 day if bought elsewhere
The Not so Good
- Not noise canceling earmuffs
- Shorter return guarantee if not ordered direct
Note: The following products are not classified as earmuffs. But they are very good at blocking noise while sleeping.
7) Becheln Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs
The Becheln Reusable Silicone Ear Plugs do not fit into the ear canal. You mold them to cover the ear canal, hold them in place for 60 seconds, and get ready to enjoy a quiet sleep. They have a Noise Reduction Rating of 32 decibels making them very effective noise attenuators. Because they fit over the ear canal they are a ‘one size fits all’ product, making them easy to use. Made of ultra-soft high-grade silicone, they are comfortable for side sleepers. Not only are they noise-canceling, but they are also BPA free, moldable, waterproof, and reusable.
Each package contains 10 earplugs c/w an 8 plug storage case and a 2 plug daily use case. Besides being great for sleeping, they can be used for swimming, concerts, a snoring bed partner, or general hearing protection in most noisy environments.
Inexpensive, 30 day money back guarantee, and available in 3 colors.
Note: Amazon site states an NRR of 22. Schiara (Becheln owner) states NRR of 32. I used the manufacturer’s number.
The Good
- 32 decibel Noise Reduction Rating
- One size fits all – eliminates choosing an almost right earplug
- Made of soft high grade silicone
- Very comfortable for side sleepers
- 10 earplugs and 2 different sized carrying cases
- 30 day money back guarantee
The Not so Good
- Virtually nothing
8) Buensueno Silicone Ear Plugs for Sleeping
Buensueno Silicone Ear Plugs for Sleeping have a Noise Reduction Rating of 33 decibels. Enough to help provide many nights of peaceful and restful sleep. Designed by a German engineer, they are not made to fit deeply into the ear canal, but to only block the outer end. And to be held in place by the ergonomically designed, compressible tailpiece that fits into the ear auricle.
Manufactured of super soft food-grade silicone, they are washable and reusable. Each order contains one small size pair and one large size pair to accommodate both small and large ear canals. They do not stick out past your ear, and the design makes it difficult for them to fall out. Ideal for side sleepers.
Available in 4 colors, they can also be used for swimming, concerts, and other noisy environments. The Buensueno Ear Plugs come with a 90 day return policy.
The Good
- 33 decibel Noise Reduction Rating
- Washable and reusable
- Made of soft food grade silicone
- German designed
- Small and large pairs included in each order
- Available in 4 colors
- 90 day return policy
The Not so Good
- Virtually nothing
9) Loop Quiet Noise Reduction Earplugs
The Loop Quiet Noise Reduction Earplugs provide 27 decibel noise canceling. These super-soft silicone earplugs come with 8 different tips in 4 sizes–XS/S/M/L–something to fit every ear. They are made of extra soft silicone material, meaning you will feel almost nothing in your ears. Reduces most noise waves including bass. The rounded shape of the loop fits naturally into your ear when they are fully inserted. They are available in 6 designer colors. (Which I am not sure is very important while you are sleeping.)
The earplugs do not stick out, making them a comfortable sleeping accessory. And the loop makes them easy to remove. They stay in while sleeping which eliminates the need to find and re-insert them.
This is a ‘one and done’ earplug purchase, giving you years of service, quiet, and comfort. Wash them as many times as required and re-use.
Note: For anyone seriously into bling, loopearplugs.com offers an 18 carat gold/120 diamond earplug. (I believe I will keep my comments to myself.)
The Good
- 27 decibel noise cancelling
- Super soft silicone construction
- 8 tips in 4 different sizes – XS/S/M/L
- Carrying case
- Washable and reusable
- 100 day return policy – even if used
The Not so Good
- Virtually nothing
10) Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs
Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are the # 1 doctor recommended earplug. With a 33 decibel Noise Reduction Rating, they are excellent for sleeping, working, concerts, shooting, or anywhere noise is a little much to handle. (This is the highest Noise Reduction Rating of any earplug.) They are sold in 50 pair jars, are inexpensive (less than 2 bits per night), very effective, and made in the USA.
They are made of Comfy Cush Comfort Foam which requires low pressure to insert in the ear canal and provides slow release as they expand.
The Good
- 33 decibel Noise Reduction Rating
- Soft expandable foam
- 50 pair per jar
- Inexpensive
- Made in the USA
- 30 day return policy – satisfaction guaranteed
The Not so Good
- Not reusable
Ear Muffs or Ear Plugs – Which is Better?
Because I veered away from ear muffs into earplugs, it is only fair that I give you a Good and Not so Good list of both to help make your choice easier–I hope.
Ear Muffs
Ear muffs are generally an item that will completely cover your ears.
The Good
- Fit. Easy to fit. Just pull them on. Even those with headphones require minimal adjustment.
- Comfort. Made of soft comfortable material.
- Temperature. Work well in cooler climates.
The Not so Good
- Fit. Although easy to fit, they may not stay in place.
- Temperature. Easily become hot and uncomfortable in hot climates.
- NRR. Generally not as effective at reducing noise as ear plugs.
Ear Plugs
Ear plugs are sound reducing items that are inserted into your ear canal–to some extent.
The Good
- NRR. Better at reducing noise.
- Size. Small and easily portable.
The Not so Good
- Fit. May be difficult to fit properly.
- Comfort. Some people find having something inside the ear canal annoying.
- Health. May be the wrong choice if you tend to ear infections.
How We Chose Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs For Sleeping
When compiling this list of noise-canceling ear muffs/earplugs for sleeping, I tried to include many different options. Because most of us have different needs and/or requirements for noise suppression, comfort, and personal likes and dislikes. I have to admit to a bias for products that are suitable for side sleeping, because of my sleeping position.
Best Comfortable Ear Muffs for Sleeping
This is a no-brainer. If you can’t sleep wearing an ear muff or earplug, it is a pointless exercise to include it on this list, or for you to buy it. Many of the ear muffs/earplugs I looked at have great noise-canceling properties and reviews, but I just could not get past trying to sleep with something hard that projects past the outside of my ear. Such as the Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds. This is a tremendously effective product from a well-known manufacturer, but it looks to me like it will hurt and keep you awake, or fall out–or both. (It could be perfect if you sleep on your back and never move. (I have seen studies that say the average person changes position, or moves, up to 32 times during the night.)
Best Noise Blocking Ear Muffs for Sleeping
Once you are reasonably sure it will be comfortable, it needs to block noise. Noise blocking ear muffs/earplugs should reduce the sound of snoring, and other ambient sounds to a tolerable level allowing you to get to sleep quickly, comfortably, and stress-free. Having faith in your noise-blocking choice will also improve your sleep in unfamiliar sleeping surroundings like hotels, guest bedrooms, even planes, cars, and trains.
Headband and Sleep Mask
Ear muffs with adjustable bands add to your comfort. Having a strap around your head that feels like a steel band or one that keeps sliding around is not going to produce a peaceful night’s sleep.
Some headbands double as a sleep mask. If you like the idea of extra darkness when sleeping, these might work for you. Earplugs for noise reduction do not have sleep masks. If you are interested in the mask option, these are not going to be your choice.
Noise Blocking Ear Muff Maintenance
Buy ear muffs/earplugs that are easy to clean, or disposable after use. Ears are usually fairly tender and a build up of dirt and sweat will aggravate them. There is also the possibility of causing an ear infection. Some people are prone to infections and need to be extra careful about keeping the ear muffs/earplugs clean and disinfected.
Noise Blocking Ear Muffs and Sound
Some noise-blocking earmuffs use headphones as part of their strategy to produce a quiet sleeping environment. Depending on your device, you can listen to music, audio books, stress-reducing sounds, or anything else that will help you get to sleep and/or block noise from your snoring partner and the world around you. Some are Bluetooth speakers, some are wired. (If you opt for a wired unit, make sure the cord will not throttle you while asleep. Or is too short to reach your device.)
The speakers are very thin (approximately 1/8″) and fit into padded pockets in the earmuff headband, but for some side sleepers, even that small thickness will be too uncomfortable to allow a good night’s sleep.
Best Noise Blocking Ear Muffs – Other Considerations
- Sleeping Position. If a person passes out on her/his back and does not move much while sleeping, almost any of the products on this list will work well. For us side sleepers who scrunch the pillow up between head and shoulder, any kind of added thickness on the side of our heads could actually make sleeping more difficult.
- Warranties/Guarantees. Almost none of these products has a real warranty. Most of them come with a money back guarantee lasting 30 to 90 days.
- Personal Preferences. Many of us are not going to know what we like or can tolerate until we try them. Fortunately, many of these ear muffs/earplugs are fairly inexpensive making trial and error a reasonable possibility.
FAQs About Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs For Sleeping
Although there are dozens of questions that could be asked about ear muffs for sleeping, here are some of the most common.
Earmuffs and earplugs do not have very long warranties. Why?
You should know if your purchase will work for you within a month. And they are personal health/body products that cannot be reconditioned and/or resold once used. Kind of like returning underwear after a year’s use.
Are ear muffs safe when sleeping?
Yes. Generally, all ear muffs and earplugs are safe. But there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure that earplugs are the proper size to prevent them from being pushed too deep into the ear canal. If you have wired headphones, make sure it is positioned to prevent getting tangled in it. Keep ear muffs reasonably loose to prevent headaches. Make sure reusable earplugs are kept clean to prevent infections.
How important is the Noise Reduction Rating when buying ear muffs?
The NRR decibel rating is important to give you some indication of how much noise reduction you can expect from your purchase–and to compare products. However, it is a kind of weird calculation meaning that the raw number you see is generally much higher than the actual decibel reduction. For an easy-to-understand explanation of NRR please take a look at 3M Hearing Protection – How to Use the NRR. Keep in mind that a 3 decibel reduction in noise represents a 50% reduction in sound reaching your ear because the decibel chart is a logarithmic calculation.
Do ear muffs or earplugs block all sound?
No. You can probably get earplugs or muffs that will block almost all of the sound coming through the ear canal. But because of sound conduction through the bones in your head, you will always hear a certain amount of sound.
