How the Best Products for Night Shift Workers Help You Sleep Better

Working the night shift? Read this to discover the best products for night shift workers that help you get the rest you need to unlock your full potential.

You’re likely reading this because, as a night shift worker, you’re in dire need of getting the restful sleep you deserve. Sleep deprivation can affect your performance and health.  

Fortunately, there are ways around this. Apart from sticking to a sleep schedule for night owls, use the best products for night shift workers on the market. These are designed to help you drift off faster and stay asleep longer.  

This blog post lists the best products for night shift workers and explains how they help improve sleep quality. It also offers helpful tips and tricks to ensure better shut-eye (even when the sun is high in the sky). Here’s what you’ll find in this article:

At its most basic, a sleep mask is a cloth worn over the eyes. It’s secured around the head with an elastic strap. Its primary function is to block out light for uninterrupted sleep.

It isn’t just about preventing discomfort from its glare, either. When we see light, it signals our body to be awake and alert. The complete opposite happens with darkness.  

That’s why a sleep mask is one of the best products for night shift workers out there. They, much of the time, need to catch zzzs while the rest of the world is awake.  

Depending on how well-made a sleep mask is, it can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It blocks out unwanted light, including blue light that comes from electronics.

There are tons of sleep masks on the market, ranging from basic designs to ones with more advanced features. Choosing can be tricky, so keep reading to learn what to look for in the best sleep mask for night shift workers.

Nowadays, contoured masks are a popular option. Even more so are those with detachable eye cups for zero pressure in the eye area. They fit snugly yet comfortably over your eyes.  

High-quality silk sleep masks are also in demand. This fabric reduces sleep wrinkles, is naturally hypoallergenic and is moisturizing. The fabric's smooth texture also makes these eye masks feel luxurious against your skin.    

Another type of eye mask that’s gained popularity is the weighted sleep mask. It contains weights that gently massage pressure points on your face. But it’s more suited to restorative naps because it's heavier than the typical sleep mask.

When you're shopping for a sleep mask, there are a few things to consider.  

The first is comfort and fit. Look for a sleep mask with a durable and adjustable head strap. Preferably one that uses a micro hook and loop closure for easy hand removal. A well-fitting sleep mask will likely stay on all night without causing discomfort.

It's important to make sure your sleep mask fits properly. If it’s too tight, it may cause headaches and leave marks on your skin.  

Ideally, the top sleep mask delivers 100% blackout. Look for a contoured sleep mask or one with adjustable eye cups for a custom fit. The cups help seal out all light without putting pressure on your peepers.  

Breathability is also essential. Choose an eye mask made from soft and breathable materials. It will allow maximum airflow, preventing you from overheating as you sleep.

Remember to keep it clean by washing it regularly. That said, make sure your sleep mask is washable. Plus points if it's machine washable, for easy cleaning anytime.

We have a wide range of sleep masks, many offering 100% blackout and additional features.

💡 Key Takeaway: A sleep mask is one of the best products for night shift workers. Blocking out light will help you get the restful sleep you need. When choosing one, consider comfort, fit, light-blocking capability and breathability.

Yet another of the best products for night shift workers are blue light blocking glasses. We’ll get to why later on in this article, so keep reading.

But first, why does blocking out blue light matter when it comes to sleep?  

Higher wavelengths of blue light, found in sunlight and gadgets, are most effective at signaling your brain to wake up. They also repress the production of melatonin, known as the sleep hormone.

(That’s why darkness is so vital to quality zzzs.)

These specs are designed to minimize exposure to blue light. Some are clip-on lenses; others come with frames and lenses.

They’re either tinted or have coatings formulated for your eyes. Some even have UV protection and anti-glare features.    

As a note, this article focuses on tinted blue light blocking glasses for night shift workers like you. The tinted kind usually has yellow or amber lenses (not clear lenses for use during the day to avoid eye strain). According to ScienceAlert, amber-tinted glasses are very effective in blocking blue light, a big element in sunlight⁽¹⁾.  

They’re also classified according to the number of blue light wavelengths they can block. The Sleep Doctor says that blue light blocking glasses should be capable of filtering wavelengths of 446 to 477 nanometers⁽²⁾.

Unlike the rest of the world, night shift workers sleep when the sun is still out. They have to contend with light exposure once they’re done with their shift.  

If you’re a regular night shift worker, you’ll benefit from wearing these glasses from when you get off work until you’re ready for bed. This helps minimize disruptions to your sleep-wake cycle.      

Ideally, like daytime workers, you want to get ready for bed in a dark environment. But the reality is that morning light exposure is unavoidable after your shift. You’re exposed to it during the commute or while winding down at home. It is daytime, after all.  

According to CDC, blue light blocking glasses minimize the amount of blue light your retina sees⁽³⁾. Wearing a pair between when you leave work and before you hit the hay may mean drifting off faster and staying asleep longer.

We recommend wearing your blue light blocking glasses as soon as your shift ends. Keep them on until you get into bed, and then transition to a 100% light blocking sleep mask.

Take note that wearing them while you’re still at work isn’t a good idea. You want to expose yourself to blue light instead. Otherwise, you may feel sleepy and unproductive.  

The Other Shift says to get some exposure to blue light while working the night shift. It helps your internal clock know the time of day⁽⁴⁾. And in this case, the world’s typical evening is your workday.

(By the way, there’s a non-invasive treatment called light therapy that helps reset your body clock through light wavelengths. For more information, read our blog post on the best sleep light for the night shift.)

Are you considering a pair? Here’s how to choose the top blue light blocking glasses.

First, consider how much blue light they’re capable of blocking. Tinted blue light blocking glasses tend to absorb the bluest light. This makes them a good option for use after your shift.  

Another consideration is if you wear prescription glasses. Try asking your optician to fit yours out with a blue light filter.  

Third, pick a well-fitting pair. We recommend looking for something adjustable and comfortable.  

Fourth, look for ones with UV protection and anti-glare coating. These protect your eyes from harmful rays and may also reduce screen reflections.

Blue light blocking glasses are great for night shift workers who need better sleep. They reduce their exposure to blue light exposure after their shift, allowing them to wind down.

Why not consider our stylish Manta Blue Light Blocking Glasses? Here’s a quick rundown of its features:

💡 Key Takeaway: Blue light blocking glasses help night shift workers fall and stay asleep during the day. Amber-tinted ones are especially effective in blocking out blue light promoting melatonin production, the sleep hormone. Wear a pair after your shift until you’re ready to bed.

Working night shifts? We understand that you have to deal with daytime sounds from your environment most of the time. There are a couple of options that provide varying levels of sound blocking.

By the way, light sleepers, travelers, or those with insomnia also benefit from earplugs.

They’re not on this list of the best products for night shift workers for nothing. They act as a barrier between your ears and external noises for better sleep quality. With fewer distractions, you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

They also help reduce stress levels associated with loud noises like snoring from your bed buddy or car horns blaring outside your window. Also, they help protect your hearing from loud music or machinery at work while you’re awake.

Some earplugs are made from moldable foam. When inserted correctly, they mold to the shape of your ear canals.  

Another type is made from wax. Known as wax earplugs, they need to be rolled and molded before being inserted into your ears. They can seal out sound and water.

Finally, there are silicone earplugs. These come in various shapes and sizes to fit snugly inside the ear canal. Custom-molded plugs are created using impressions from your ears for a perfect fit every time. They tend to be more expensive but offer superior sound protection due to the exact size match.

Choosing the best earplugs is essential based on how much noise you must block out.  

Also, consider factors such as comfort when wearing them over long periods. Look out for texture and weight, as these could cause discomfort.

Earplugs are effective for blocking unwanted noise and ensuring a silent night's sleep. However, consider a white noise machine if you're uncomfortable wearing earplugs.

When inserting foam plugs, make sure they expand fully inside your ears. This ensures optimal sound blocking. Earplugs should sit comfortably in the ear canal and not go deep inside. It’s also essential to clean earplugs after every use. Replace them once you notice wear and tear.  

Earplugs are an effective tool to help block out unwanted noise and ensure a silent night's sleep. However, if you're not comfortable wearing earplugs, consider a white noise machine.

Earplugs are an effective tool to help block out unwanted noise and ensure a silent night's sleep. However, if you're not comfortable wearing earplugs, consider a white noise machine.

In case you’re interested, Manta Earplugs come in a set of 10. Check out their other features:

💡 Key Takeaway: Earplugs are essential for night shift workers to block out noise and improve sleep quality. Different earplugs, such as foam, wax, silicone or custom-molded plugs, offer various levels of protection from external noises. Choose one based on your sound reduction needs and comfort level when wearing them over long periods.

Before diving into the machine that makes it, let’s first discuss what white noise is.

White noise is a type of noise that has all the frequencies of the entire spectrum of sound at the same intensity. Examples of white noise include a whirring electric fan, a running vacuum and TV static.

According to Sleep Foundation, studies have shown that white noise helps you fall asleep faster and helps people in noisy urban areas sleep better⁽⁵⁾.    

White noise machines create soothing sounds that can block out distracting noises. This can help you relax and drift off into a more peaceful slumber. These sleep gadgets come in many different shapes and sizes and have bonus features.

Here's why a white noise machine is among the best sleep products for night shift workers.  

First, a white noise machine helps you get a good night's rest. It cancels out disruptive noise from your environment — which is excellent because sleeping during the day often means more background noise.

If you have had a tough night at work, it can also help bring down your stress levels. Just listen to its soothing soundscapes for pure relaxation before hitting the sack.  

Plus, many of these white noise machines come with extra features. Think timers and adjustable volume for a customized sound experience.

There's an extensive selection of white noise machines out there. You could choose something simple, like a tabletop model with basic sound options. Or you could get something more advanced with more settings and features like Bluetooth or voice activation.

A standard white noise machine is the tabletop variety. This product usually comes with nature soundtracks like ocean waves or rainforest sounds. These are typically portable, which makes them travel-friendly, too.

You can pair more advanced models with your devices through Bluetooth technology. This allows you to listen to your playlists or preferred sleep music app. Some of these come with ambient lighting effects with settings for intensity and colors.

When selecting a white noise machine, consider where you’ll be using it and how much control you want over the sound. Want something portable? Then, go for a smaller device with an additional power source, like a USB or battery.

Larger, stationary units may indeed have better sound quality at lower volumes due to their bigger speakers. However, they only offer the same portability if they have wireless technology.  

It’s also important to consider your budget. Check for special features like adjustable volume and timer functions. Extras like headphones and carrying cases count, too. In short, make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.

💡 Key Takeaway: A white noise machine is one of the best products for night shift workers. It helps improve sleep quality and reduce stress. Choose from basic tabletop models to advanced ones with more bells and whistles. Remember to choose one based on where you will use it and how much control you want over the sound.

Working night shift schedules means putting in more effort to get good quality sleep. But the best sleep products for night workers can make it much easier. The perfect combination is an excellent sleep mask paired with blue light blocking glasses, earplugs, and a white noise machine. (Note that this combination is one of the best light sleeper solutions, too.)

There’s more where that came from, too. Read our article on the best sleep products to help you get deep and restful shut-eye. Remember that good sleep is critical to better work performance and overall well-being.    

Finally, if you want more information on sleep products, check out these blog posts on car sleeping accessories and semi-truck sleeper accessories.

Sources:  

(1) “Study Shows Amber-Tinted Glasses Can Reduce Manic Symptoms in Just 3 Days.” ScienceAlert, www.sciencealert.com/study-shows-amber-tinted-glasses-can-reduce-manic-symptoms-in-just-3-days. Accessed 03 March 2023.

(2) “Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses.” The Sleep Doctor, thesleepdoctor.com/best-blue-light-blocking-glasses/. Accessed 20 February  2023.

(3) “NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Work Hours.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/niosh/work-hour-training-for-nurses/longhours/mod6/07.html. Accessed 23 February  2023.

(4) “Do Night Shift Workers Need Blue Light Blocking Glasses?” The Other Shift, www.cdc.gov/niosh/work-hour-training-for-nurses/longhours/mod6/07.html. Accessed 03 March  2023.

(5) “White Noise.” Sleep Foundation, www.sleepfoundation.org/noise-and-sleep/white-noise Accessed 20 February  2023.

Disclaimer:  The information contained in this website or provided through our blog, e-mails, or programs is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment that can be provided by your healthcare professionals.