The 9 Best Earplugs for Sleep, Travel, and More

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With over 3,400 positive reviews, these are the most popular earplugs on Amazon. They’re soft, comfortable, and even discreet thanks to their neutral color (unlike many others that come in bright hues). “Best ones I've used yet for sleeping,” wrote one customer. “I can barely hear anything other than my own heartbeat.”

NRR: 32

To buy: amazon.com, $10/50 pairs

If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills option, try these soft foam earplugs from Flents. They’re specifically designed for sleeping, so they’ll block out snoring, television sounds, and other loud noises. At just $3 for 20 pieces (plus a carrying case!), the earplugs come out to less than 30 cents per pair — a price that can’t really be beat. 

NRR: 32

To buy: amazon.com, $3 (was $5)/10 pairs

These popular earplugs are designed to be worn while on a plane, so they’re perfect for helping you sleep while traveling. They are made of soft hypoallergenic silicone to provide maximum comfort even if you are a side sleeper. Plenty of reviewers say they’ll never fly without them again — the brand even says that these earplugs have been tested by US Navy pilots. 

NRR: 20

To buy: amazon.com, $7/pair

You'll wake up well-rested even in the noisiest of environments thanks to these hypoallergenic, super-soft foam earplugs with the highest NRR on our list. They’re easy to insert and remove, and they work just as well on a plane as they do in a pool.

NRR: 33

To buy: amazon.com, $14/50 pairs

If foam earplugs don’t feel comfortable to you, then try out these best-selling silicone ones for a snug fit. They are extremely easy to mold to the contours of your ears and will help you get a good night’s sleep. If they don’t fit perfectly the first time, you can simply reheat them and then mold them again. 

NRR: 31

To buy: amazon.com, $26/pair

Fall asleep easily in-flight with these small T-shaped earplugs that are easy to insert and remove — even if you have smaller ears, according to reviewers. They come individually packaged and are made from low-pressure, smooth, soil-resistant foam that expands once you insert the earplugs into your ears.

NRR: 32

To buy: amazon.com, $10/25 pairs

These multifunctional, waterproof earplugs are great for sleeping, swimming, riding airplanes, and attending concerts. They are made from silicone that’s washable and reusable. One reviewer says these earplugs are “soft and pliable” so they fit perfectly in their ears. 

NRR: 22

To buy: amazon.com, $4/six pairs

Corded earplugs are great for people who always seem to lose one earplug from a pair. When you don’t need to block out background noise, just keep them around your neck while not in use. These are made from a three-tiered soft material for a super snug fit and excellent noise reduction.

NRR: 25

To buy: amazon.com, $6/three pairs

Even though they’re not technically earplugs, these in-ear headphones are a great option if you’re looking for something multifunctional, since they can cancel out noise and play your favorite soothing music. (Good to know: The battery lasts up to 16 hours on a full charge.) The buds are designed to securely and comfortably stay in your ears, so you don’t need to worry about them falling out mid-nap.

NRR: N/A

To buy: amazon.com, $249/pair