How to Use Manta Sleep Earplugs: A Comprehensive Guide

How Do Earplugs Work?

Earplugs work by sealing your ear canal so less sound reaches your eardrum. That means fewer noises loud enough to pull you out of deep sleep. In a 2026 lab study published in SLEEP spanning seven nights, people exposed to environmental noise overnight experienced significant reductions in their deep sleep. Wearing earplugs successfully prevented this loss, protecting their most restorative sleep stage.⁽¹⁾

Earplugs are devices that you insert into your ear canal to reduce noise. They're a convenient noise solution because they're small enough to take with you anywhere and use anytime.

Earplugs are rated by their noise reduction rating (NRR), the U.S. lab measure of how many decibels (dB) a plug blocks. That rating assumes a correct fit, which is what this guide highlights.

Earplugs are typically made from wax, silicone or foam. They're available in disposable or reusable options. Others, such as reusable Manta Sleep Earplugs, are a combination of silicone and foam.

They can also help with specific sound sensitivities, such as tinnitus, misophonia or hyperacusis. Tinnitus is ringing in the ears, misophonia is a strong reaction to specific sounds and hyperacusis makes everyday sounds feel too loud. However, continuous wear of earplugs can backfire. A study published in The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America found that wearing earplugs for 2 weeks straight made the same sounds seem louder.⁽²⁾ If you want to use earplugs for your sound sensitivity, consult your healthcare provider first.

You should also check with your doctor before using earplugs if you're prone to ear infections. The same goes if you have earwax buildup, ear pain, have had ear surgery recently or are simply wondering: Is it bad to sleep with earplugs? Also, earplugs aren't meant for children.

If you aren't sure that you need a perfectly quiet bedroom for a good night's rest in the first place, it helps to weigh the benefits of sleeping in silence vs with noise.

What Are Manta Sleep Earplugs?

Manta Sleep Earplugs are reusable silicone and foam earplugs. We specifically designed them for sleep, especially for side sleeping. Here's what each part does for you:

• Two soft silicone flanges, each 0.5 mm thick. The inner flange seals deeper in your ear canal and the wider outer flange seals the entrance, so the plug doesn't rely on foam pressing on your canal wall.

• A tapered foam core that follows the curve of your ear canal, so the plug slides in without folding or dragging on skin.

• Five sizes in every kit: XS, S, M, L and XL. The flanges overlap from one size to the next, so you're never stuck between sizes. The size is marked on the inside of each earplug.

• There's no left or right. Either earplug fits either ear.

• A flared outer edge stops the plug at the entrance of your ear canal, preventing it from being pushed too deep.

• A silicone shell that fully encloses the foam, so foam never touches your skin, earwax or moisture. That makes them easier to keep clean than bare foam or wax. Both the silicone and the PU foam are industry-standard, non-toxic and food-safe.

• A silicone case with a one-hand magnetic closure and a dust-resistant UV-treated finish.

• Reusable for up to 12 months.
  

How much noise do they block? Manta Sleep Earplugs have a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 14 dB, which is designed to reduce noise, not eliminate it, so you can still hear alarms.

How to Use Earplugs, Step by Step

To use earplugs, find the size that fits each ear, hold the plug with its long curve pointing toward the back of your head and gently push and wiggle. . Then, check that the flat outer surface rests against your ear and test the fit. Remove it slowly with a twist.

Step 1: Find Your Size

Start at size M. Try one size at a time. Gently wiggle your head or lie on your side for a minute, then notice how it feels. If it feels loose, the seal breaks easily or background noise creeps in, go up a size. If it sticks out, pushes itself out or feels sore, go down a size. S and XS are ideal if you typically need earplugs for small ears.

• They should noticeably reduce noise. A loose fit lets far more sound through.

• They shouldn't protrude from your ears no matter your sleep position. This is especially true if you sleep on your side, as protruding earplugs will cause discomfort.

• Each earplug has a size indicator.

• The earplugs have a purple silicone shell exterior and a red inner memory foam core.

• The silicone shell of each earplug has a longer tip, which also serves as a guide for proper insertion.

Step 2: Insert the Earplugs

We recommend trying on each of the five sizes to find the perfect fit. Start by identifying the size of earplugs that look like they will fit you best, and make sure your hands are clean before inserting them.

Step 3: Determine If You’ve Found the Correct Size

Here’s how to know that you’re wearing the correct size of earplugs:

Since ear canals aren't always identical, different sizes may be required for each side.

How to Remove Earplugs Safely

To remove earplugs safely, pinch the long side between your thumb and finger. Twist slowly to break the seal, then draw the plug out. Never yank it.

Here are a few tips:

• If you feel any resistance, don't force it. Keep rotating slowly until the seal releases, then remove the earplug completely.

• Once removed, check the earplugs for earwax or debris and clean them.
  

How to Clean Manta Sleep Earplugs

Manta Sleep Earplugs last for up to 12 months, with nightly use. However, maintaining and storing them is crucial to ensure their long lifespan.

How to Clean Manta Sleep Earplugs

To clean earplugs, wipe the silicone shell with rubbing alcohol. Air-dry them completely and store them in their case. Don't soak them or use soap and water, which can damage the foam core.

Manta Sleep Earplugs last up to 12 months with nightly use. However, proper maintenance and storage are crucial to ensure a long lifespan.

Here's how to properly clean them:

Here's what you shouldn't do when cleaning your Manta Sleep Earplugs:

• Never clean the earplugs with soap and water to avoid damaging their foam core.

• Never submerge or soak the earplugs.

• Avoid using harsh cleaners, baby wipes or makeup remover to clean the earplugs.

• Do not store the earplugs until they are completely dry.

• Do not use appliances such as blow dryers or other devices to quicken the drying process. The earplugs are strictly air-dry.

When to Replace Your Earplugs

Manta Sleep Earplugs last up to 12 months. Replace them sooner if:

• The foam looks worn or discolored.

• The silicone or foam is cracked or damaged.

• They've lost their flexibility.

• They no longer block noise or seal like they used to.
  

Check your earplugs regularly for any of these signs.

How to Get Used to Sleeping with Earplugs

In general, it takes time and patience to fully get accustomed to wearing earplugs at night.

Think about it. You're essentially putting foreign objects in your ear canals, and that can be uncomfortable at first. That's why Manta Sleep Earplugs are engineered so you barely notice them.

Here are some tips to help you get used to sleeping with Manta Sleep Earplugs:

• Don't panic if you suddenly become more aware of your own breathing or heartbeat. This heightened awareness is normal while wearing any type of earplugs. According to The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, it's called the occlusion effect, where blocking your ear makes sounds traveling through your body seem louder. Acoustic modeling shows the effect subsides as an earplug sits deeper in the canal, so a snug, fully seated fit helps.⁽⁴⁾ It usually subsides after a few nights of use.

• Try wearing your earplugs for shorter sessions, such as while reading, studying, or working. (Earplugs can help you focus too by blocking distractions.) Gradually transition into all-night wear once you're used to the feel of the earplugs.

• If you still hear sounds while wearing Manta Sleep Earplugs, keep in mind that we designed them to reduce noise and not block it out entirely. It's an important safety consideration that lets you hear emergency alerts, and a practical one that lets you hear your alarm.

Troubleshooting Common Earplug Issues

Most earplug problems come down to fit. Before you give up, try a different size or reinsert them correctly.

The Earplugs Fall Out While Sleeping

The likely cause is the plug isn't fully seated or is too small. Make sure your ears are dry and clean before inserting the earplugs again. Point their longer curve toward the back of your head, push in while gently rotating and check that the outer part tucks behind the tragus, the small flap of cartilage at the front of your ear. If your earplugs still fall out, try going up a size.

There's Not Enough Noise Reduction (Including Snoring)

This is typically caused by a gap in the seal, usually from a shallow fit or a size that's too small. Remove the earplugs and reinsert them, with the long curve pointing back. If you still hear too much, go up a size. Even the best earplugs for snoring won't block out your partner if the seal isn't perfectly tight.

You Feel Pain or Discomfort While Side Sleeping

This usually happens when the plug is too large or sticks out. One issue we wanted to address when designing our product was the discomfort of using earplugs while side sleeping. That's why the flanges are only 0.5 mm thick.

If you feel pain or discomfort while side sleeping, remove the earplug and reinsert it by pushing it in while gently rotating. Make sure that the earplugs aren't protruding from your ears. If the ache continues, try one size smaller.

How to Get the Best Sleep with Earplugs

Here are a few tips to make the most of your Manta Sleep Earplugs:

• Pair your earplugs with a 100% blackout sleep mask to keep out both sound and light. A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that even in a hospital intensive care unit, wearing an eye mask and earplugs at the same time improved sleep quality and lowered anxiety.⁽⁵⁾

• Transform your bedroom into the best sleeping environment by keeping it dark and cool. Use earplugs to keep things quiet.

• Practice good sleep hygiene, such as sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, crafting a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime. Put screens away well before bed, too.

• Take your earplugs with you when you travel. Pack your sizes in the case, and don't forget alcohol wipes.

Manta Sleep Earplugs Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Manta Sleep Earplugs are a practical and effective must-have for your sleep tool kit, but don’t take our word for it.

Find out what our customers have to say:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

No more snoring!

“My husband is a snorer, so I've been trying a bunch of earplugs lately. These are by far the most comfortable ones I've used. Finally got a full night of sleep! 🙌” – Hannah G.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

5 Stars

“I love these! Not only do they block out sound incredibly well, but they’re also the only earplugs I’ve found that stay comfortable while side-sleeping. They don’t slowly work their way deeper into my ear during the night, so I’m not waking up with that temporary muffled hearing anymore. Absolutely worth it.” – Andrew

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Great fit

“The design really makes these fit perfectly, not too tight but just enough to block noise. My house is right next to a busy road and these have really helped blocking out that noise in the morning.” – Joseph B.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Still fresh after weeks

“I've used foam earplugs before and I don't like how yucky they can get. It just never felt very hygienic. The silicone 'shell' of these Manta Earplugs is easy to clean and it stays fresh. Been using them for 2 weeks now and still as good as new. Plus, it feels really good too! Very soft.” – Carlos D.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Replacing my old ear plugs for every night

"Quick review summary: These are now replacing my dream loops. These are much more comfortable to sleep in and the seal doesn't loosen like my dream does sometimes. I have been using them since Friday. I ended up using a large but probably could just use m as well. My main reason to wear some kind of ear plugs is to remove background noise from my CPAP machine, air purifier and furnace. I still can hear my air purifier a bit but not enough to bother me and my CPAP is completely cut. With dreams everything is cut but with only 14db nnr I was impressed because it seems better than others with higher nnr. I did notice if you don't follow the directions to twist them once in, you won't get as much reduction in sound." – Tia

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The best earplugs!

“These earplugs are exactly what I was looking for! They are soft and comfortable, I can even sleep on my side with them. My favorite part is they allow enough sound in that I can hear alarms or my kids if they need me, but they filter all that irritating background noise that wakes me up at night. Being sent the full set to find my perfect size was so helpful too, the ones I thought would fit didn’t end up being the right ones for me, and with this system I didn’t have to wait for a new pair to arrive. So smart! I’ve also been reaching for these during the day when I’m feeling overstimulated, they are so much more comfortable than the other filtering earplugs I had been using. 10/10, I’ve been recommending these to EVERYONE!” – Shannon P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Finally comfortable earplugs!

“These Manta earplugs are amazing! No pressure on my ears, even when I sleep on my side. Super comfy and they actually stay put all night. 10/10!” – Sarah L.

Conclusion

Earplugs are an easy and effective way to reduce disruptive noise so you can drift off faster and stay asleep longer. They’re handy for protecting your ears from excessively loud sounds. Plus, they help you stay focused when the world around you is making all that racket.

We hope this guide answered everything you wanted to know about Manta Sleep Earplugs. If you have questions that were left unanswered, visit our FAQs page, email support@mantasleep.com, or click the red chat button in the bottom-right corner.