If you suffer from lack of sleep due to noisy environments, you should try earplugs for sleeping. For those of you who travel a lot this is a must have item to pack before you set off and is an essential aid to help you get some rest and relaxation en route to your destination on board noisy planes, trains or whatever means of transport you are using.
The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey undertaken by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2008 identified several worrying symptoms of unhealthy and abnormal sleep behavior. It determined that, among 74,571 adult respondents in 12 states, 35.3% reported
Sleep is therefore very important to our wellbeing, and finding the right set of earplugs for sleeping could be critical to your livelihood. Personal preferences determine the best type of earplugs you need for sleeping, but the following sections should help you find what you need.
Composition
Most earplugs are made of either foam or silicone.
1) Foam
Foam is predominant but has the disadvantage of being flimsy and therefore less durable. Some people also hate foam earplugs because its application involves rolling it into a slim tube and inserting it into the ear. The subsequent expansion of the foam keeps the earplugs in place but the permanent pressure is very uncomfortable and irritating to some people.
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Howard Leight Max1 Foam EarplugsBest for SleepingNRR 33, Highest protection for loud snoring
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Hearos Ultimate Softness Foam EarplugsHearos Ultimate Softness Foam EarplugsSoftest for SleepingNRR 32, Softest foam available
2) Silicone
The second most common material is silicone, which is slightly more expensive but is better because it stays in the ear without irritation and is also easier to clean and maintain. Some users have reported that they work better after being cut in half; for safety reasons they appear to be made longer than they need to be, which makes them stick to pillows, hair and the bed so they are pulled out by accident.
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Macks Pillow Soft Silicone EarplugsMacks Pillow Soft Silicone EarplugsBest Reusable for SleepingNRR 22, Safe and comfortable against pillow
3) Other Materials
Other special materials are used and there are even earplugs made out of down feathers. These are essentially little shaped bags of delicate down feathers just like earplugs. They’re not rigid and you don’t roll them up and insert them like conventional foam earplugs. To apply, simply tug up onto your ears and gently guide them in with a little pressure. For people who can’t stand foam earplugs they’re a good alternative which provides greater comfort and are also just as effective at blocking out noise.
Shape
Most earplugs come in either bullet or cylindrical shapes. A foam cylindrical earplug is the most basic set on the market, with silicone gel earplugs more prevalent in cylindrical shape. Variations exist and a good set of foam earplugs made out of stiffer material with one end flared out for better fitting could be exactly what you need.
Maintenance
Even the most standard set of foam cylindrical earplugs will last you a while if properly looked after. Wash with water and mild soap and leave to dry if you need to clean them. Avoid storage in high temperatures and bright sunlight.
For tips on inserting, removing and cleaning your earplugs, see our guides on how to use foam earplugs and how to use silicone earplugs.