For a good night’s rest, block out the light with these sleep masks

The best sleep masks for travel block out all light, helping you get a good night’s sleep whether you’re on a red-eye flight or adjusting to a new time zone. 

Complete darkness is crucial for the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, exposure to even low levels of light while dozing can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to poor sleep quality.

The Manta Sleep Mask, which is designed with adjustable eye cups that help create a light-proof seal, is our overall pick for best sleep mask. But there are other great eye masks for blocking out light, whether you’re a side sleeper or like to snooze while wearing headphones. Read on to find out which mask is best for your travel needs.

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Best overall: Manta Sleep Mask

Buy it now: $35 at Amazon

Why we like it: The Manta Sleep Mask earns high marks for its adjustable design and comfort, thanks to elastic bands and a velcro strap. Modular covers and deep cups are made to provide gentle, pressure-free coverage over eyes. Premium materials, such as soft, breathable cotton, contribute to a comfortable, luxurious feel.

Most importantly, the Manta’s snug fit prevents even a little light from entering the sides of the mask, which can be a common problem with more traditional mask designs. 

The Manta even comes with ear plugs to lessen noise and a laundry bag for protecting the mask in the washing machine.

Keep in mind: The Manta Sleep Mask is bulkier than most sleep masks, which may feel less comfortable to some travelers. Although the eye covers and cups are important for creating a blackout experience, they may feel particularly substantial to some. 

Product details: Material: Cotton, Fleece | Available sizes: One size | Adjustable: Yes, via velcro strap and elastic bands

Best for side sleepers: Ostrichpillow Sleep Blackout Mask 

Buy it now: $45 at Amazon

Why we like it: With its padded, ergonomic design, Ostrichpillow’s eye mask is ideal for side sleepers. It’s constructed to fit the contours of your face with adjustable straps that help keep the mask in place, even if you roll from one side to the other during the night.

Six layers of soft, breathable materials feel comfortable without adding pressure, contributing to a restful night at home or while traveling on a plane or train.

A bonus—Ostrichpillow’s sleep mask is made with hypoallergenic fabrics, a feature that travelers with sensitive skin will appreciate. Yet, it’s machine washable, so it’s easy to keep clean even if you use it every night.

Keep in mind: The Ostrichpillow may not be the best fit for stomach sleepers, due to the mask’s plush design and molded eye sockets. 

Product details: Material: Foam, Modal Fabric | Available sizes: One size | Adjustable: Yes, via velcro strap 

Best for wrinkles: Slip Silk 

Buy it now: $55 at Amazon

Why we like it: If you’re worried about wrinkles, a high-quality silk eye mask can serve double duty. It can help protect the delicate skin around your eyes and block light.

The eye mask by Slip is made from 100 percent mulberry silk, a material that’s renowned for its suppleness. Mulberry silk minimizes friction while you sleep, which may help reduce the risk of fine lines, although no studies have been done to support that claim. It’s also gentle on eyelashes and lets skin retain its natural moisture.

The Slip comes with a silk-covered elastic strap that helps the eye mask stay in place throughout the night. The mask’s contour shape and smooth texture even help protect eyelash extensions.

Keep in mind: This eye mask is pricier than other silk eye masks on the market. However, the craftsmanship and high-quality materials, plus the long-term benefits of wrinkle prevention and skin health, may justify the price.

Product details: Material: Mulberry Silk | Available sizes: One size | Adjustable: No

Best for headphones: Alaska Bear 

Buy it now: $10 at Amazon

Why we like it: Combining a light-blocking eye mask with noise-canceling headphones can be tricky. Flimsy or ill-fitting eye masks can easily shift while wearing headphones, and contoured masks can be uncomfortable. 

Alaska Bear’s affordable cushioned sleep mask provides full coverage from light and lays flat over your eyes, with an elastic strap that fits well with headphones.

The outer layer is made from non-irritating silk. A nose wire helps keep the mask on your face, even if you shift your body or adjust your headphones. The flat design and lightweight foam padding also make this mask a great option for stomach sleepers.

Keep in mind: This mask is fairly large, so it may not be the best fit for everyone. Some reviewers have also noted that the black dye tends to transfer onto white pillowcases. 

Product details: Material: Silk, Nylon Elastic | Available sizes: One size | Adjustable: Yes, via elastic strap 

Best silk: Drowsy Sleep

Buy it now: $79 at Amazon

Why we like it: This eye mask by Drowsy combines the benefits of dense 22 momme mulberry silk with cushion-like padding that wraps around your head. This makes it extra comfortable to sleep while leaning against hard surfaces, like an airplane window.

The adjustable strap allows for a comfortable fit for most travelers, without allowing light to creep in from the sides. Another bonus? The Drowsy eye mask comes in a variety of colors and prints. 

The Drowsy sleep mask is made from silk, but you can wash it by hand or throw it in the washing machine on the delicate cycle.

Keep in mind: At nearly $80, this option is a splurge. But the high-quality materials make this eye mask a long-term investment, especially for frequent travelers. It’s also bulkier than some eye masks, but it folds up for easy storage. 

Product details: Material: Mulberry Silk | Available sizes: One size | Adjustable: Yes, via velcro strap 

Best weighted: Nodpod 

Buy it now: $34 at Amazon

Why we like it: The Nodpod is the most unique sleep mask on our list. Constructed with segments filled with beads, the Nodpod is like a weighted blanket for your eyes.

 It’s designed to soothe headaches and quiet your mind so you can doze comfortably. Temperature-sensitive sleepers can flip the eye mask—one side is made of a cooling jersey material, while the other is made of a warmer microfiber.

Unlike other masks that have adjustable straps, the Nodpod mask can be secured around your head by pulling one end through a slit in the other. 

You can also simply drape the sleep mask across your eyes or forehead to rest while blocking out light. Place the eye mask in the freezer to make a cold compress, perfect for headaches.

Keep in mind: The plush design, while comfortable, can make the Nodpod eye mask difficult to use with headphones, especially while sitting upright.

Product details: Material: Mulberry Silk | Available sizes: One size | Adjustable: Yes, via velcro strap 

Our review process

• Third-party reviews: Eye mask reviews by industry experts and average consumers provide firsthand insights, as well as a range of perspectives about specific models. These reviews often highlight nuances in comfort, effectiveness, and other key qualities.

• Brand reputation: A company’s reputation is a crucial factor in selecting the best sleep masks. It reflects the trust and satisfaction of consumers over time. A reputable brand is more likely to prioritize customer feedback and invest in consistent research and development.

• Quality of materials: High quality materials go a long way toward comfort and longevity, especially for pricier masks. 

• Adjustability: The adjustability of a sleep mask is a key feature for getting a good night’s sleep. 

• Light blockage: One of the most important factors when it comes to eye masks is the ability to block light, especially while traveling.

What to know about sleep masks

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind while shopping for sleep masks:

Material

When choosing a sleep eye mask, look for high quality materials. Soft and breathable fabrics, like silk or modal, not only feel great against the skin, they also help regulate body temperature. If you have sensitive skin, check eye masks for hypoallergenic properties. Most importantly, make sure that the mask you purchase is made from materials, like silk, that completely block light to ensure the most restful sleep. 

Stability 

The best eye mask for sleeping should stay in place throughout the night. Adjustable straps and molded eye cups are key components to prevent the mask from shifting while you sleep. Masks with wide, comfortable headbands or bands that don’t add pressure to your eyes can also help maintain stability without causing discomfort. 

Face shape

The shape and features of your face are important factors in choosing the best eye mask for you. If you have a broad face, wider masks may do the best job at blocking light. If you have a prominent nose, masks with adjustable or contoured nose bridges may offer a more snug fit. 

Washability 

Since oils, bacteria, and allergens can build up after daily use, it’s important to choose a mask that you can wash. Look for masks with removable, machine-washable components or those made from materials that can be cleaned on their own. Keep in mind that silk masks will likely need to be hand-washed.

Weight

A well-balanced mask can help it stay in place throughout the night. In general, look for sleep eye masks that are light enough to be comfortable, yet substantial enough to provide a secure fit. However, for some people, a slightly heavier sleep mask can contribute to a sense of security and help reduce restlessness. 

Frequently asked questions

What are sleep mask benefits?

Sleep masks can help improve health by contributing to a dark environment, which promotes better sleep quality and helps regulate circadian rhythms. They are particularly beneficial for frequent travelers or people with irregular work schedules because they can help establish a consistent sleep environment. A 2022 study by the Sleep Research Society found that wearing a sleep mask at night can also improve alertness during the day. 

Are sleep masks good for you?

Sleep masks have been associated with improved sleep quality, according to the European Sleep Research Society (ESRS). Sleep masks can aid in regulating circadian rhythms and promoting melatonin production, ultimately enhancing overall sleep duration and efficiency. Results from the same ESRS study also indicated that using a sleep mask with ear plugs helped reduce fear, anxiety, and problems in vital signs for hospital patients at night.

Are sleeping face masks worth it?

Multiple studies have shown that sleep masks are worth purchasing if you struggle with light sensitivity or have difficulty sleeping while traveling. However, some people may find them uncomfortable or disruptive.