Side sleepers face unique challenges when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep. According to a 2013 survey for National Sleep Day, a majority of adults (74%) sleep on their sides. However, many earplugs on the market today are not optimized for side sleeping, causing discomfort and poor noise blocking.
In this article, we will review the top three earplugs specifically designed with side sleepers in mind. These products address common issues like ear canal discomfort, plug dislodgement, and ineffective noise blocking. Read on to discover which earplugs can help side sleepers finally get the deep, uninterrupted sleep they need.
ZOOM HEALTH SILICONE EARPLUGS
Our own Zoom Health Silicone Earplugs (£9.99 for a pack of six pairs) are made of soft, malleable silicone that conforms to the unique contours of each person’s ear canal. This adjustable fit prevents the earplugs from jabbing into the side of the head when sleeping on one’s side, a common complaint with cheaper foam earplugs.
The silicone material also dampens sound effectively, reducing noise by 32 decibels. This is enough to block out snoring partners, noisy neighbors, and other disruptive nighttime sounds. The lightweight silicone putty feels comfortable all night, without weighing down the ear canal. Available in a choice of four colours – blue, clear, orange and rose.
With their adjustable fit and noise-blocking abilities, the Zoom Health Silicone Earplugs are an excellent choice for side sleepers seeking uninterrupted rest.
NOISE-X NATURAL WAX EARPLUGS
For an all-natural earplug option, the Noise-X Natural Wax Earplugs (£5.99 for a pack of six pairs) are made of soft cotton and lanolin wax. Before inserting, the wax is warmed between the hands, allowing it to conform perfectly to the unique shape of the ear canal.
This customisable fit, combined with the ultra-soft wax material, prevents any jabbing or pressure points on the side of the head. The natural wax also blocks sound effectively, reducing ambient noise by 23 decibels.
As an added benefit, the cotton-lanolin wax is hypoallergenic, making these earplugs ideal for those with sensitive skin or latex allergies. Overall, the Noise-X Natural Wax Earplugs offer an all-natural, customizable fit for side sleepers seeking a peaceful night’s rest.
ALPINE SLEEPSOFT EARPLUGS
Alpine SleepSoft Earplugs (£13.99) stand out for their unique flexible design that adapts comfortably to the ear canal. Unlike rigid reusable earplugs, the SleepSoft has a soft, pliable body that adjusts to the natural contours of each person’s ears.
This flexible design prevents any stabbing or jabbing sensations, even when sleeping on one’s side all night long. Despite their softness, the SleepSoft Earplugs block noise effectively, reducing ambient sounds by 25 decibels. They allow for critical noises like alarms to remain audible.
Made of hypoallergenic thermo-fit material without latex or silicone, the Alpine SleepSoft Earplugs are ideal for those with sensitive skin. Their flexible fit and noise blocking abilities make them a top choice for side sleepers.
Find Sweet Dreams with the Right Earplugs
Side sleepers have unique needs when it comes to sleeping soundly. The top earplugs for these sleep positions are flexible, comfortable, and provide effective noise reduction without jabbing the ear canal. Whether made of soft silicone, natural wax, or thermo-fit materials, these earplugs conform to the sleeper’s head and ears, blocking noise while preventing discomfort.
With the open ear canal discomfort plaguing side sleepers addressed, these earplugs can finally provide a great night’s sleep. No more tossing and turning from an ill-fitting earplug or outside noise. Just sweet dreams and restful slumber.
Zoom Health Earplug Sample Packs: A Solution for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers often struggle to find the perfect earplug. The pressure on one ear can cause discomfort or even push the earplug out during the night. Zoom Health’s earplug sample packs offer a great way to test various options and find the ideal fit.
Male and Female-Specific Packs
Zoom Health recognises that ear canal sizes can vary between men and women. They’ve created gender-specific sample packs to address these differences.
The men’s pack includes 15 pairs of earplugs, featuring 13 foam options, one silicone pair, and one wax pair. Popular brands like 3M, Howard Leight, and Moldex are represented.
The women’s pack also contains 15 pairs, with a similar mix of materials but tailored for typically smaller ear canals. It includes options like Mack’s Dreamgirl Soft Foam Earplugs, designed specifically for women.
Variety is Key
Both packs offer an impressive range of styles:
- Foam earplugs in various densities and shapes
- Silicone putty earplugs that mold to your ear
- Wax earplugs that soften with body heat
This variety allows side sleepers to experiment with different materials and shapes to find what works best for their unique ears and sleeping position.
Benefits for Side Sleepers
- Comfort: Softer options like silicone or wax might prove more comfortable for side sleepers, as they conform to the ear canal and don’t create pressure points.
- Stay-in-place: Tapered foam earplugs or those with a slightly tacky surface might grip better, preventing them from working loose as you shift on your pillow.
- Noise reduction: Different earplugs offer varying levels of noise reduction. Side sleepers can test which level blocks enough noise without feeling too isolating.
- Size matters: The packs include smaller options that might be less likely to protrude and cause discomfort when pressed against a pillow.
How to Use the Sample Packs
- Try a different pair each night for a couple of weeks.
- Pay attention to comfort, noise reduction, and how well they stay in place.
- Keep notes on your favorites.
- Once you’ve found a winner, you can purchase larger quantities of that specific type.
Beyond Material: Other Factors to Consider
- Insertion depth: Some earplugs sit shallower in the ear canal, which might be preferable for side sleepers.
- Reusability: While foam earplugs are typically single-use, silicone and wax options can often be reused, offering better value.
- Allergy concerns: The packs include hypoallergenic options for those with sensitive skin.
A Cost-Effective Solution
Buying individual packs of various earplugs would quickly become expensive. These sample packs offer a more affordable way to test multiple options. It’s an investment in finding the perfect earplug for your needs.
Beyond Side Sleeping
While these packs are great for side sleepers, they’re also useful for anyone looking to find their ideal earplug. Whether you’re dealing with a snoring partner, noisy neighbours, or just trying to get better sleep, having a variety of options to test is invaluable.
Zoom Health’s earplug sample packs take the guesswork out of finding the right earplug. For side sleepers especially, this trial-and-error approach can lead to more comfortable, restful nights and better overall sleep quality.
Photo by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Health
Zoom Health is a leading UK supplier of Home Health Tests and Earplugs
