A Sleep Mask is one of the most cost-effective and safe ways to improve your chances of falling asleep, especially if you are an insomniac or have trouble staying in your dreamland. Even small sources of light, such as that pesky computer LED or the streetlight outside your bedroom window, can have a massive impact on the quality of your sleep. If that is the case with you, finding ways to block out those distractions can significantly affect your capacity to get a good night’s rest.
While tying a bandana around your eyes can work, a sleep mask is better suited. However, selecting the right one is crucial to the process. A lousy sleep mask can put irritating pressure on your eyes, light can get through it, and it can slip off at night. On the other hand, a good one can have a magnificent impact on your sleep and your disposition during the day.
What will you see here?
MZOO Eye Mask
The MZOO eye mask is well constructed and is easily adjustable with the use of a sliding buckle. The strap is wide, but soft enough that the user barely feels it. The Sleep Mask itself is made from memory foam and is covered in polyester (we assume). It creates a comfort that users resoundingly enjoy. You can wear the MZOO sleep eye masks all night and roll around without any fuss. It feels lightweight and soft against the face, especially since the memory foam contours with the shape of the face to mitigate pressure points.
One drawback that we would like to point out is that while eye contours are a nice addition, the divot isn't very deep. Because of this, your eyelashes still brush against the sleep mask. While we aren't particularly sensitive to this, some people would find it somewhat uncomfortable. Another drawback is the light leakage. While working wonderfully in low light, in broad daylight, sun rays penetrate the sleep masks. It is likely due to the nose shape, but still, the fit around the nose area could use some redesign. The memory foam prevents the users from putting pressure on it to flatten the material around the nose.
Nidra Luxury Patented Sleep Mask
The Nidra Luxury Patented Sleep Masks are a basic model at a very affordable price. However, it still offers contoured eye covers for the best comfort of all the models on this list. One of the lightest masks of the bunch, it is made out of 100% polyester interlock fabric and a foam insert which is remarkably thin. The elastic strap has a very small velcro patch, limiting the adjustability of it. But when it does fit comfortably, it does the job well.
Users with smaller faces struggle more with this sleep mask staying in place. Light has a way of getting in by the nose and eventually everywhere if you move around a lot. The velcro can be adjusted slightly if you misalign it a little, but that can only add or subtract about an inch. It is likely to pull apart the fabric if you attach the velcro to any other part. Overall, the ultralight fabric is comfortable, with deep contours for maximum eyelash room.
Gravity Weighted Sleep Mask
The Gravity Weighted Sleep Mak is designed to mimic the effects of the popular gravity blanket that was trending some while back. The mask weighs about 15 ounces, but the silica beads inside are meant to distribute the weight evenly across the user's forehead, eyes, and temples. With a soft fleece cover, the mask is cozy and relaxing for short periods. It also blocks the light well due to putting pressure on the eyes.
However, moving the beads around for optimal comfort isn't as easy as we would have liked. The weight tips easily when the user moves their head, which makes this mask somewhat inconvenient for those who are not back sleepers. With the velcro straps comes the stress of it snagging in your hair, and removing it is not always fruitful. The weight also signifies a restriction of air coming through our nose, so users would have to breathe through their mouths. We are already cringing thinking about that well of dryness.
Jersey Slumber 100% Silk Mask
The Jersey Slumber 100% Silk Mask is of a more basic design. The item is lightweight and easily adjustable with a smooth silk material and a single elastic strap. With its large surface area, the mask is successful in mitigating the light and can stay on the face with comfortable ease. While similar to the other array options of materials, this silk mask specializes in sleek and minimal design.
Drawbacks regarding the item in question are also valid. With most of the design focusing on pressure over the eyes, choosing to rectify the light leakage problem is secondary to it. This can be either a huge pro or a major setback, as most people would find it cumbersome for comfortable overnight use. The strap is also not the most comfy, because it rests over the ears. The durability also seems somewhat delicate overall.
Mavogel Cotton Eye Mask
The Mavogel Cotton Eye Mask is a straightforward design with a carbon steel wire for nose adjustment and an adjustable thin elastic strap, offering a circumference of 17 to 23 inches when not stretched. Its cotton fabric is soft and available in two color options, which is a plus. The construction and stitching appear well-made and durable. However, due to the cotton's warmth, it's more suitable for colder months. It has a unique strap attachment design that eases pressure on the eyes by redistributing it to the top and bottom of the mask, ensuring a relaxed fit.
On the downside, compared to other models, the strap adjustment might be a bit less user-friendly, and the overall comfort level is average. The functionality of the nosepiece is questionable, and the mask tends to run small, which may not be ideal for those with larger heads. Light leakage can occur around the nose for people with smaller faces, leading to doubts about the mask's design. Adjusting the wire to resolve this issue can make the mask uncomfortable. As a result, this sleep mask is best suited for use in already dark environments and individuals seeking a warmer, cotton-based alternative.
Alaska Bear Natural Silk Eye Mask
The Alaska Bear Natural Eye Mask is a straightforward and reliable option. It features a silk body, and an adjustable elastic belt with a plastic adjuster, and keeps things simple and silky soft, adhering to the traditional structure of slumber masks. It's easy to adjust the mask on your face to find the perfect position for blocking out light, making it ideal for naps and relaxation. The circumference, when not stretched, ranges from around 18 to 26.5 inches, making it the largest among the masks we tested. Additionally, it's available in a wide range of colors and patterns, although only in one size. It's lightweight, compact, and easy to stow in a carry-on bag or your pocket.
However, there are a few disadvantages to consider. The single cincture structure can apply some light pressure on the eyes, which may not be comfy for everyone, especially for extended use. Loosening the cincture can alleviate this issue, but it may still irritate eyelashes. The cincture's comfort over the ears varies depending on your head shape. For individuals with smaller faces and narrow noses, there might be some light leakage around the nose, requiring adjustments to strike the right balance between comfort and effectiveness. Overall, it's a lightweight and soft travel accessory, suitable for short naps or quick relaxation breaks, all at an affordable price.
What are the requirements for a Sleep Mask?
When it comes to choosing the ideal sleeping mask, everyone’s preferences vary. Thinking about the specific features that matter to you before purchasing is crucial. Here are some details to consider:
Is it comfortable?
In our search for bedtime masks, we focused on finding ones that are kind to the skin, free from uncomfortable seams or tags, and offer a snug fit around the head without causing any tightness.
Are all the external lights blocked out?
Achieving this essential feature in slumber masks can be surprisingly challenging. It appears that many of the masks we tested still allowed some light to filter through. Given the considerable variations in head shapes and facial features among individuals, a mask that effectively blocks glow for one person might not work as well for someone else.
Does it slip off in sleep?
A slumber mask that slips off during the night serves little purpose. Surprisingly, some of the most visually appealing masks were the least reliable in staying securely in place.
Is your hair affected?
If you have long or curly hair, a sleep mask can become a source of trouble, as it may get tangled in your hair and, in some cases, even catch on strands and tear them. This is far from the relaxing experience you’d want during your respite.
Conclusion
In the world of restful slumber, the sleep mask emerges as a silent yet powerful ally. As we’ve explored the best bedtime masks available, it’s evident that choosing the right one is a highly personal endeavor. Each mask brings unique qualities from sik to memory foam to the table, catering to individual needs and preferences.
Ultimately, the key to experiencing the rejuvenating magic of a sleep mask lies in selecting one that resonates with your specific desires. Whether you seek total blackout, ultimate comfort, or natural materials, there’s a sleep mask for everyone.
In the pursuit of a night filled with sweet dreams, remember that a sleep mask can be your ticket to undisturbed rest. So, as you embark on your quest for quality sleep, consider the options available, keep your unique needs in mind, and choose a sleep mask that will whisk you away into the realm of serene slumber.
