Bluetooth sleep masks are not just for blocking out light; they also allow you to stream audio directly to your ears. After weeks of testing some of the top-rated models on the market, here is what you need to know to make an informed purchase.
The Best Bluetooth Sleep Mask: Manta SOUND Sleep Mask
Priced at $159, the Manta SOUND Sleep Mask is thoughtfully designed and highly effective. Despite its bulky appearance with chunky eye cups, it feels barely noticeable even when sleeping on your side with your face pressed into a memory foam pillow. The eye cups seal out light completely without applying pressure to the eyes. The mask automatically shuts off after 30 minutes of no audio to preserve battery life, and it does not disrupt your sleep with an audible low-battery notification.
Why we love it: The Manta SOUND is highly customizable. Slidable tabs on the strap allow easy adjustment of speaker position, and the eye cups can also be repositioned. An optional over-the-head elastic strap keeps the earphones over your eardrums without the mask sliding down. During testing, the mask stayed firmly in place for seven hours while listening to white noise.
It’s a shame that... The controls, located over the bridge of your nose, can be tricky to locate once the mask is on. Some users report that the Velcro strap may lose its stickiness over time, though Manta offers a six-month warranty.
- Weight: 3.8 oz
- Type: Contoured, with soft foam eye cups
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Material: 100% modal outside, 75% nylon/25% spandex inside (head strap); 56% Tactel/27% polyester/17% spandex inside, 100% polyester outside (eye cups)
- Care: Machine-washable after removing electrical components
- Suitable for: Back, side, and stomach sleepers
The Runner-Up Bluetooth Sleep Mask: Snoozeband Silk Sleep Mask With Headphones
Priced at $129, this flat Bluetooth mask features a sleep timer that can be set for 60 or 120 minutes. In addition to streaming audio from your device, it comes with 10 built-in sleep sounds, including ocean waves, rain, and white noise. This makes it ideal for those who prefer to keep their phone out of the bedroom or who dread the hassle of pairing devices before bed. The mask is soft and has an adjustable strap that can be left loose for comfort.
It’s a shame that... To adjust the felt-wrapped speakers, you must unzip the top of the mask and manually reposition them using Velcro.
- Weight: 3.1 oz
- Type: Flat and pillowy
- Battery life: 20 hours
- Material: Silk
- Care: Remove control unit and headphones, hand-wash mask in cold water
- Suitable for: Back, side, and stomach sleepers
Bluetooth Sleep Masks That Didn’t Make the Final Cut
SleepPhones Wireless SleepPhones ($99.95): This headband with built-in Bluetooth earphones can be pulled over the eyes, but the band is not large enough to block out light effectively. It can be layered under a separate sleep mask.
SleepPhones Effortless Sleephones ($149.95): Essentially the same as the Wireless model but with a wireless charger.
What Else to Know About Bluetooth Sleep Masks
How Do Bluetooth Sleep Masks Work?
These masks consist of three main components: a fabric eye mask to block light, thin speakers positioned over the ears, and a rechargeable Bluetooth receiver that connects to your phone or tablet to stream podcasts, music, guided meditations, or white noise.
Can They Actually Help Me Sleep Better?
Any light exposure can suppress melatonin production, so a sleep mask can improve sleep duration and quality. The audio component may help dampen sharp sounds like barking dogs or car alarms, though research does not show that white noise alone improves sleep. Many people find soothing sounds helpful for winding down; a 2022 survey found that 46% of adults listen to music, podcasts, or the radio when going to sleep.
Do I Actually Need a Bluetooth Mask, or Will a Plain Sleep Mask Do?
If you only need to block light or do not like listening to anything in bed, a regular sleep mask is sufficient. Otherwise, you can combine a regular mask with sleep earbuds, but some people dislike having something in their ears, especially side sleepers. A Bluetooth sleep mask offers a comfortable way to stream audio while ensuring pitch darkness.
Could I Use My Existing Mask with Headphones I Already Own?
Yes, if you already have sleep headphones or regular headphones and a sleep mask you like, that combination can work well.
Can I Use Airplane Mode with a Bluetooth Sleep Mask?
Yes, most manufacturers recommend it. After pairing the mask and device, download your audio, put your phone in airplane mode, and start streaming. This prevents notifications while still allowing your alarm to sound.
Is There a Way to Turn Off Bluetooth Sleep Masks After a Set Time?
Some masks have built-in timers, while others require using timer functions in apps like Spotify or Calm.
Will the Sound Wake Up My Partner?
Even at the highest volume, the masks tested were not loud enough to be heard by a partner sleeping a few feet away. Many users report that Bluetooth masks have saved their relationships by covering up snoring.
Is It Difficult to Wash Bluetooth Eye Masks?
No. Ideally, wash the mask after two to three uses or as often as pillowcases. Most care instructions recommend removing all electrical components, hand-washing the mask in cold water, and hanging it to dry completely. You may want more than one mask if you plan to wear it every night.
