Which One’s Your Best Sleep Mask for Night Shift Workers?

Seriously, shift workers are what keep this world turning. They keep us safe, rescue us from health emergencies, serve food in the wee hours, and so on. So, if you’re a shift worker, thank you for what you do! (This one’s for you.)

Good quality sleep is a must whether you’re working an evening, early morning, rotating or night shift. Most forms of light interfere with that.(Why do we say most? It’s because there’s such a thing as light therapy, which helps night shift workers regulate their circadian rhythm. For more information, read our blog post on the best sleep light for the night shift.)  

So, how to get better sleep as a night shift worker? The easiest and most inexpensive solution is finding the best sleep mask for night shift workers.

Here's what this article covers:

Your circadian rhythms, part of your internal body clock, help regulate your sleep-wake schedule. Once disrupted, things start to go off track. For one, you’re sleepy, tired and less alert. And even your hormones and hunger levels go haywire.

Also, when it’s dark, your brain tells your body to produce melatonin, the hormone that prepares you for sleep. In a shift worker’s case, it’s hard for the body and brain to get their acts together when the sun is high in the sky.

The best sleep mask’s main job is blocking light, which a good one does thoroughly. Internally, it allows your body to make melatonin. Externally, it helps you sleep without the light shining in your eyes.

If you’ve never worn one before, it’s pretty straightforward. But just in case, here's how to wear a sleep mask.

We analyzed feedback from our customers and used that information to determine the best sleep masks for night shift workers. And here we go!

Our sleep masks are all 100% blackout (except Manta COOL and Manta STEAM masks, which come pretty close but aren’t guaranteed to block all light).

This eye mask promises 100% blackout, which is crucial for better sleep for night shift workers. It also comes with eye cups so you feel zero eye pressure.

We understand that head and face shapes are unique. This mask has an infinitely adjustable head strap and eye cups for a custom fit. They’re also swappable. Pair them with any of these to give you better sleep (and then some).

Instead of a single strip of cheap elastic, this head strap is triple-reinforced elastic encased in breathable high-quality fabric. It’s snag-free, too.

Meanwhile, the eye cups attach to the mask with a micro hook-and-loop fastener. You can move them around, so they completely cover your eyes.

Here are this sleep mask's other features that make it suitable for night shift workers:

• Good for any sleeping position

• Improves deep sleep and REM

• Lightweight

• Protects your lashes (especially if you have lash extensions)

• Comes with earplugs  

• Machine washable with a wash bag/case    

If you’ve never tried one of our eye masks, start with the classic Manta SLEEP Mask.

The PRO has everything the Manta SLEEP Mask offers with more bells and whistles. It’s the best nightshift sleep mask for those who sleep on their sides.

Many consider Manta PRO Mask as our best light blocking sleep mask. It has C-shaped eye cups that thin out on the sides of your face. If you’re a side sleeper, extra bulk around that area causes discomfort. Oh, and did we mention that it’s shaped to sit above your ears?

Side sleepers tend to move a lot in their sleep, making them prone to sweating. The PRO is made from unique cooling fabric with perforations, giving it all-around breathability. It also has an extra-grippy head strap, so it doesn’t fall off when you shift sides.

Here’s what else the Manta SLEEP Mask PRO offers:

• It’s 100% blackout

• Eye cups have an air bubble seal

• Zero eye pressure

• Infinitely adjustable for a custom fit

• Anti-stretch Machine washable (comes with a wash bag)

• Fun design and bold colors  

Once you go pro, you’ll never let go. (Sorry, but we just had to.)

If you have set work hours, stick to a sleep schedule. This means going to bed and getting up at the same time daily. Do this even on your days off. We know it’s tempting to sleep in, but it’ll mess with your internal body clock.(Read our article on the best sleep schedule for night shift workers for more information.)

There will be nights when you can’t help but feel sleepy. If you have a break, take a quick nap. Ten to 20 minutes is fine, but don’t overdo it.

If you’re sleepy and driving home, please pull over in a safe spot and take a nap.  

When you get home, spend quality time with YOURSELF. Indulge in relaxing activities like taking a warm bath, reading a book or calling a friend for a quick chat.

Don’t deprive yourself of moments like these because they lessen anxiety and stress, helping you get better sleep.

Get a good night’s sleep not just once but as often as possible. It’ll help you kill it at work, not to mention feel healthier and happier. Shift work warriors like you don’t just need it; you deserve it.