Choosing the Best Sleep Mask with Headphones for Side Sleepers & Sleeping with Sound

Learn how to pick the best sleep mask with headphones for side sleepers like you. Plus, discover our recommended Bluetooth sleep mask backed by user reviews.

The amount of stress and anxiety we go through daily is staggering. We already have our hands (and minds) full during the day. So, why’s it so hard to tap out when it's time to hit the sack?

Stress impacts sleep quality, which means you’re depriving you of deep and restful zzzs. A lack of quality sleep affects the way you’re able to cope with stress. (It’s a chicken and egg kinda thing.) You’re also shortchanged of the energy you need (and deserve).  

One way to quiet a mind that won’t quit is to listen to sleep-inducing noise or music before bed. If you’re new to this, the link between sound and sleep isn’t all bad. The right kind of sounds can soothe and mask harmful noise. And earbuds and headphones are the go-to devices.  

But there's some doubt about the safety of sleeping with these on. (Often-asked questions are: Is it safe to sleep with earbuds? Or is it bad to wear headphones to sleep?) If you're one of those who are unsure, then consider a sleep mask with headphones.  

But it doesn’t end there. Side sleeping comes with its share of quirks (constant shifting and proper body alignment to name a few). It’s hard enough to find a sleep mask for side sleepers. Throw in headphones and it seems near impossible.      

Fortunately, the best sleep mask with headphones for side sleepers exists.

A sleep mask with headphones is like a headband with headphones except for a major difference. It’s worn over the eyes to deliver sound and darkness in one sweet go.  

Don't confuse it with the clunky gadget you slip over your head (those are over-ear headphones). Or earbuds, which go inside your ears.  

A sleep mask with headphones houses small speakers in its interior, so you get none of the bulk and all of the sound. It typically uses Bluetooth technology to pair with your device of choice.

Sleeping while listening to music is safe if you keep the volume low. Sleep mask headphones are safer than earbuds because they don’t go inside your ear canal. Wearing earbuds (filthy ones) may prevent air from circulating in your ears. If you’re not careful, there’s a risk of infection.  

On the other hand,  sleeping with headphones (the over-ear ones) is doable but uncomfortable. (Imagine the bulk!) If you want to sleep sideways while listening to sounds, it’s simple. Use a sleep mask with headphones for side sleepers.      

Either way, it's essential to keep the volume at a safe level. Listening to sound with a volume of 85 decibels and up for 8 hours is dangerous. And if you’re sleeping while listening, Decibel Meter Pro says to keep the volume at 40 decibels and below⁽¹⁾. And if you’re gunning for good sleep quality, maintain it at 30, which is pretty much a whisper.

There are several factors to consider here. Sleep masks with headphones for side sleepers don’t come cheap. And if they do, think twice because quality is everything.  

That’s because it’s a sleep product that fulfills specific needs. These are light-blocking, sound delivery and side sleeping comfort. These call for special features. If the sleep mask you pick falls short, consider it a poor sleep investment.        

As with any sleep mask, look for one that blocks the light out 100%. The whole point of owning one is to sleep in complete darkness.  

When it comes to sleep, light isn’t just uncomfortable. It tells your body it's time to be awake. Light makes falling asleep harder and causes frequent awakenings.  

Darkness tells your body to wind down. It also signals your brain to produce melatonin, the sleep hormone.  

Some sleep masks come with convex eye cups. They don’t just seal out the light. They also put space between the mask and your eyes and lashes. And because there’s no pressure on your eye area, you’ll also sleep comfortably.

The problem with most sleep masks with eye cups is they create extra bulk on the temples. This can cause extreme discomfort for side sleepers. They already have to contend with a pillow.

The following section also talks about what to look for in eye cups. (Don’t compromise!)

As a side sleeper, you know too well that you must shift from left to right during the night. And if you’re wearing a sleep mask, chances are it’ll slip off with movement.  

Most of the time, a flimsy elastic strap won’t do. So, choose one with a thicker head strap. This is for a snug yet comfortable fit.    

Another thing to consider is bulk. Side sleepers like you experience more pressure on the ears and temples. A sleep mask with bulky speakers won't do you any favors when it comes to comfort. Choose a sleep mask with thin speakers.    

Now on to the eye cups. If your sleep mask has them, ensure the eye cups flatten on the sides of your head.

There is no such thing as a good-for-all when it comes to head size and eye positioning. So, make sure to choose one that’s infinitely adjustable.

If your sleep mask comes with eye cups, it would be ideal for them to be fully adjustable, too. That way you get a custom fit. Plus, it’s more likely your mask will stay on instead of getting swallowed by your sheets.

Expectations. Expectations. Manage them when it comes to side sleeping. Because the thicker the speaker, the more uncomfortable you’ll sleep.

You might not get the aural experience from premium over-ear headphones. But that doesn't mean you should settle for something that sounds tinny or has a limited volume range. Good things come in small packages, too.  

When it comes to gadgets, good battery life is one of the top considerations. And it should be yours.

That you can’t wash a sleep mask with headphones is a frustration shared by many users. Water could damage the electronics.  

Now here’s the thing. Like anything you wear next to your skin, a sleep mask needs washing occasionally. It’s not hygienic (or safe) since you wear it over your eyes.  

You may have slim pickings, but the best sleep mask with headphones for side sleepers is washable, as you’ll see below.

We offer the best sleep mask with headphones for side sleepers. It’s the most comfortable one to boot, too. (No holds barred, here.)    

Now that you know its features, here’s feedback from Manta Sleep Mask SOUND users.

Want a better sleep and sound experience? You can’t go wrong with the best sleep mask with headphones for side sleepers like you. Why not give our version a go? Let us know how it works out by dropping a comment below.

Sources:  

(1) “What Is 50 Decibels Compared To Other dB." Decibel Meter Pro, decibelpro.app/blog/what-is-50-decibels/. Accessed 21 December 2022.

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.