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Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask: How They Compare
Not all sleep masks are created equal. Some do one thing alone: block out light most comfortably and effectively as possible. An example of this is the original Manta SLEEP Mask.
Meanwhile, other eye masks meet different needs while performing their basic light-blocking function. And one of these is Manta STEAM Mask, designed to give the wearer heat therapy.
The goal of this article is to help you stop pondering Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask. And choose the one that’s right for you. We’ll compare their features and explain how and why sleep masks work in general. And of course, what a heated mask is for in the first place.
How do sleep masks work?
Okay, we’re going to keep this simple. You need darkness to get a “more than decent” night’s rest. And here’s why. Your internal body clock has 24-hour cycles, known as circadian rhythms. One of these is the sleep-wake cycle.
Darkness tells your body that it's time to get ready for bed. It also tells it to start making melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep. Melatonin helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
Light, on the other hand, suppresses melatonin production. (And this includes blue light from your gadgets). It can also increase the number of times you wake up at night, which interrupts your sleep cycle. You need to stay long enough in the stages that give you deep and restful sleep. Otherwise, you’re in for poor-quality shuteye .
And that’s where a good eye mask comes in handy. It blocks out light so you sleep and nap better. Not to mention it’s a safer alternative to pills and a cheaper option for high-quality blackout curtains.
What are heated eye masks used for?
Heated masks are often used to relieve dry eyes. They unclog your tear ducts and seal in moisture. Dry eyes can happen for several reasons. Heck, you can get dry eyes from being sleep-deprived.
It could be the dry air in a plane, pollution, your contact lenses or certain medical conditions. Heated masks may help with styes, blepharitis and MGD, too. (Quick reminder to remove your contact lenses before using a heated mask.)
If you suffer from sinusitis, a heated mask can open sinus passages. It can also relieve pain from migraines when used alternately with a cold compress.
Finally, a heated mask is pure relaxation after a long, stressful day. It helps stimulate blood and oxygen flow. But it shouldn’t be too hot or left on for longer than 5 minutes. (Doctors recommend 3 to 5.)
Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask
Now let’s get down to comparing these two sleep masks, according to these categories:
Blackout Function: Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask
Manta SLEEP Mask was designed specifically to block out light. You get 100% blackout thanks to the convex eye cups. These are tapered to give more comfort if you happen to sleep on your side. They’re made from molded foam and conform to your face, so no light seeps in.
Meanwhile, Manta STEAM Mask has a near-blackout design. It primarily provides moist heat and warm compression. And it also offers sensory relief from light.
Conclusion: Choose Manta SLEEP Mask if blocking out all light is your number one priority.
Choose Manta STEAM Mask if you suffer from dry eyes. Or if your doctor recommended a heated eye mask as part of your treatment.
Moist Heat Function: Manta STEAM Mask
You can't heat Manta SLEEP Mask. Therefore, there’s no comparison in this aspect. But we want to highlight how Manta STEAM Mask works. Especially when compared to other heated masks on the market.
Manta STEAM Mask’s eye cups are made from soft and breathable fabric. Unlike other heated masks, they’re filled with warming beads instead of gel. They have a hook fastener backing, which attaches to the head strap.
Unlike most other heated masks, Manta STEAM’s beads are self-hydrating. This means they absorb moisture from the air. Once heated in a microwave (just the cups and not the head strap), they emit clean steam. They’re also insulated in foam so the warmth is targeted to your eye area.
They’re comfortably warmer than most other masks. And also stay that way for the doctor-recommended 3 to 5 minutes.
To use, put the eye cups on your microwave turntable and heat for 20 seconds. Oh, and don’t refrigerate them as they’re specifically for moist heat therapy.
A Custom Fit: Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask
The head straps of the Manta SLEEP Mask and Manta STEAM Mask are similar in design. Head size varies from person to person. So, both head straps are infinitely adjustable and secured with snag-free fasteners.
As mentioned earlier, both masks have eye cups that attach to the straps with a micro hook and loop fastener. You can position them exactly where you want.
Conclusion: It’s a tie because you can customize both masks for a personal fit. And this means you can adjust the angle, head strap tightness and eye cups to your liking.
Eye Pressure: Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask
Manta SLEEP Mask has tapered eye cups so you feel zero pressure on your eyes or lashes. They’re made from foam and covered in cozy fabric to comfortably conform to the unique shape of your eyes. Plus, they seal out light all night long.
Meanwhile, the eye cups of Manta STEAM Mask are round with an indentation in their centers. This is so they don’t put direct pressure on your eyes. And also evenly distribute the heat on the area around them. However, you will feel minimal pressure.
Conclusion: If you’re one of those who can’t have anything pressing on your eyes, then go for Manta SLEEP Mask.
With Manta STEAM, you will feel pressure however light. Again, this mask is for warm compression to soothe your dry, tired eyes.
Also, if you’re planning to wear a sleep mask the entire night, go for Manta SLEEP Mask. Manta STEAM is made for shorter steam therapy sessions. But it still blocks out most light as you relax or nap.
Durability and Comfort: Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask
One of the great things about Manta Sleep masks is they were built to last. We put a lot of thought into the construction of the head straps. As you may know most eye masks have a single piece of flimsy elastic.
As we mentioned earlier, the head straps of both Manta STEAM and Manta SLEEP Mask have a similar design. Each has triple-reinforced elastic and is covered in cozy fabric. (You can forget bacon strap). And they keep their elasticity way longer than your average sleep mask..
Manta SLEEP Mask features eye cups that are made from soft molded foam. They’re covered in comfy, breathable fabric. You’ll barely know they’re there.
This mask is machine-washable cold for easy cleaning. Make sure to put it in its mesh laundry case before putting it into the washing machine. The case comes with the mask and as a bonus, one set of comfy Manta Ear Plugs.
As you might imagine, anything that’s heated should ideally be made from durable fabric. The material of Manta STEAM Mask’s eye cups is crafted to withstand constant heating. It’s extra soft and breathable, too.
Manta STEAM Mask’s head strap is machine-washable cold, too. Any mesh laundry bag will do. But its eye cups are handwash only. Putting them in a washing machine could damage the self-hydrating beads.
Clean them with cold water and mild soap and lay them flat to air dry. Spot cleaning them with a damp cloth dipped in cold water is another option.
Conclusion: When it comes to comfort and durability, you can’t go wrong with either mask. But it's worth noting that a little more effort goes into cleaning the Manta STEAM Mask. Its eye cups are handwash cold only.
Ready to choose?
Let your needs guide you when you consider Manta SLEEP Mask vs. Manta STEAM Mask. Are you still having a tough time deciding? We recommend buying the Manta SLEEP Mask and getting a separate set of STEAM eye cups.
Want to know about our other eye masks and how they compare to the original Manta SLEEP Mask? Read these other articles:
There’s no wrong decision here. Whichever mask you choose, you’re committing to better health through amazing sleep. And that’s the best choice of all.
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.