Looking for a pair of the best noise cancelling headphones for sleeping?

We've all been there, searching for sleep on a long-haul flight or covering your ears with a pillow while trying to get some rest while sharing a room with a loud snorer.

Whether you're at sleeping at home or traveling, getting quality sleep is the first step to waking up feeling rested. And sometimes you just need a way to tune out external noise---such as listening to music or wearing earplugs.

You may the person that can sleep with all kinds of noise and commotion, but I'm someone who truly needs either music or complete silence to achieve a better rest.

On long-haul flights I'm normally able to sleep a good bit. However I always seem to find myself stuffing my earbuds or earphones in my ears in attempt to block out extra noise and listen to music as I sleep.

Noise cancelling headphones for sleeping are ideal for anyone who just needs that extra bit of relaxation to snooze. Plus, they are great for just listening to your own music in whatever noisy environment you may find yourself. A loud snorer, noisy neighbors, traffic noise, you name it...

The problem is that most headphones that are great for listening to music are not ideal for sleeping in. In this guide I'll cover what I recommend for the best noise cancelling headphones for sleeping.

With a quality pair of noise cancelling headphones your sure to get relief from external noise and get the best zzz's. And with a wide price range and various styles, you're sure to find one that fits your needs.

[box type="shadow" ]If you want a quick recommendation, take a look at the Bose Quiet Comfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones. These are easy to pack, comfortable to use and provide the highest-quality noise cancelling technology.[/box] [toc]

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Sleeping 2017

Name	Image	Type	Price	Our Rating
Bose Quiet Comfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones		Earbud	$$$ See It	5
CozyPhones Sleep Headphones		Headband	$ See It	4.5
AcousticSheep Sleep Phones		Headband	$$ See It	4
Tooks Sportec Band		Headband	$$ See It	4
Bose QuietComfort 35 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones		Over ear	$$$ See It	5
Maxrock Comfortable Silicon Sleeping Earbuds		Earbud	$ See It	4.5
Hibermate Sleep Headphones & Sleeping Mask		Headband	$$ See It	4
Mpow Bluetooth Headphones Noise Cancelling		Over ear	$$ See It	4.5

Best Headphones for Sleeping Reviews

There are a wide array of headphones designed for sleeping and noise cancelling---and even a wider price range. Here are just a few of my top recommendations that provide a good mix of comfort, functionality, and are ideal for sleeping.

Bose Quiet Comfort 20 Acoustic - Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Sleeping

If you're looking for ultra comfortable earbuds with great sound quality, look no further than the Bose Quiet Comfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones. These five star earphones are my top choice for noise cancelling headphones for sleeping.

They do an incredible job at blocking out noise with Bose's patented noise cancelling technology to give you the best music listening---and sleeping experience. Whether you're looking to drown out the buzz of an airplane or your neighbors party, these will do the job perfectly.

Bose's industry leading active noise cancelling technology works by blocking lower frequently sounds waves. This means you can listen to music at lower volumes while sleeping without being disturbed by external noise.

Soft silicon StayHear+ ear tips on these sleeping earbuds make them ultra comfortable for extended wear and stay in place when you move around. With the earbuds you get three tip sizes to ensure you get a great in-ear fit.

They are some of the best fitting earbuds on the market, which adds to their ability to block out external sound. Putting these in your ear and turning on your choice of music is you ultimate escape from any external commotion.

When you don't need the noise cancelling mode you can easily turn it off and activate the headphones 'Aware' mode to hear external sounds. This is ideal if you just need to respond to someone talking to you, but don't want to remove your earbuds completely.

They also include a built-in microphone and volume control feature making them useful for not only sleeping but day-to-day use.

Known for producing headphones with some of the highest sound quality and these Bose sleeping earbuds are no exception. You'll get an incredible listening experience when you are enjoying your tunes or watching a movie.

Small and lightweight they are also among the most packable noise cancelling earphones available.

Overall, if you're looking for the best noise cancelling headphones for sleeping and don't mind paying extra, the Bose Quiet Comfort 20 are a superb choice. Comfortable and convenient they give you the best listening quality and highest noise cancelling performance out there.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

If you are looking for a pair of headphones for sleeping that are as comfortable as wearing a headband, the CozyPhones Sleep Headphones are just that. These headphones are integrated into a soft and stretchy Lycra headband to provide extra comfort when laying down.

Instead of hugging or entering you ear, they slip over you head with slim headphones integrated into the fabric. You can comfortably lay on your side and back with these on making them an ideal sleeping headphone for side sleepers.

CozyPhones are made in two fabric options, but the Lycra model seems to be cooler than the standard micro-fleece model. This makes wearing them much more comfortable if you are a warm sleeper.

You can easily pack the CozyPhone Sleep Headphones as they fold up extremely small and are lightweight at just 0.3 ounces. This way it's easy to carry them anywhere you go and always take them with you traveling.

The benefit of wearing a headband type headphone for sleeping is that unlike earbuds they cannot fall off during sleep. I find that they are much more comfortable to wear than normal headphones or earbuds since there is less pressure on my ear.

One potential drawback is that these sleeping headphones are only offered in one size. But as they are constructed from stretchy fabric you should not have a problem unless you have an exceptionally small or large head.

It's also important to know that upon receiving these you have to adjust the headphone position within the headband. This may be annoying to some users, but allows you to move the headphones so you have the perfect spacing for your ears.

For listening to music these sleeping headphones offer high sound quality and although they will not compete with the Bose Quiet Comfort 20 you should consider these if you are looking for a fabric headphone that allows you to sleep comfortably on your side. Overall as an affordable headphone option the sound quality is exceptionally good on these and they are well-designed.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

The AcousticSheep Sleep Phones are another great option for someone looking for a comfortable headphone for sleeping---especially if you prefer to sleep on your side. They are not only a great budget option, but are lightweight and portable to carry along on trips.

Made from recycled materials, these headphones are soft and feel like a micro-fleece headband when you have them on. The headband comes in several size and color options to ensure you get the right fit and is machine washable.

Normal headphones can be uncomfortable for side sleepers since they can create extra pressure when laying on them. For this reason a models like the AcousticSheep Sleep Phones are ideal since they have slim built-in headphones that allow you to sleep comfortably.

Although these don't have noise cancelling technology, they do a surprisingly good job at isolating external noises around you with the combination of the headband and headphones. When you turn on your music and place them over your ears you'll be set to snooze. If you're in a incredibly noisy environment then you'll likely have to turn of the volume to completely block external sounds---or invest in a set of noise cancelling headphones.

There are several options models available including a wireless Bluetooth version that allows for cord-free sleeping. This is a must if you tend to toss and turn during the night. The wired model comes with a thin 4 foot wire that works on all mobile phones.

The sound quality is good, but not great on these. Although for the intended use of listening to music and getting to sleep, they are perfectly fine.

The biggest drawback of these are that they are made with a fleece-like material that can be hot for warm sleepers. The Lycra CozyPhones Sleep Headphones are a better option for someone looking for a cooler feeling design. On the flip side, they extra warmth can be a nice touch during colder or winter months. They are also a bit more expensive than the CozyPhones, so be sure to compare both.

At the end of the day, these are a good option for side sleepers looking for a comfortable headphone for sleeping. If you find normal headphones produce too much pressure on your ears, these are a great alternative to consider.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

The Tooks Sportec Band is the third headband with built-in headphones option included in our reviews. It's another comfortable option for side sleepers who are looking for an alternative to normal headphones.

These are actually designed to be used for both sleeping and sports---so they are a versatile options. They come in two versions, a micro-fleece and a dryfit material, both of which are soft and comfortable to wear whether you are sleeping or going for a run. Plus, the headband can be easily washed when needed.

Just note that the micro-fleece material will feel a little hotter, so if you are a warm sleeper you'll want to take note of that. The dryfit material should run a lot cooler and also performs better for working out. You also get some upgrades with the dryfit version, including Bluetooth technology and built-in microphone for phone calls.

Like most other models out there, these feature a standard 3.5 mm plug that can be used in common mobile phones and audio devices. The sound quality produced by the Tooks is surprisingly good and is more than enough for listening to tunes while dozing off or working out.

For sleeping they don't provide active noise cancelling technology, but the band itself offers noise isolation and the music from the headphones easily handles the rest for relief from moderate external noise. They are perfect for blocking out snoring, traffic, airplane engines, neighbors, or people walking by.

Like other similar versions, the thin speakers come uninstalled within the headband, so you'll need to adjust their position to fit your ears upon first use. You can also remove them easily to wash the headband.

Whether you prefer micro-fleece or dryfit material, the Tooks Sportec Band is a solid option for anyone looking for a way to comfortably sleep on their side while listening to music.

Take a look at more reviews and see the latest price here

The Bose QuietComfort 35 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones are among the highest performing wireless noise cancelling headphones for sleeping and enjoying music.

They offer incredibly sound quality and combined with Bose's great active noise cancelling technology they can block out just about any external noises you may encounter. They are perfect for situations when you just need that extra bit of silence and relaxation while listening to your tunes.

Although these are normal over the ear headphones, they can still be a viable option for sleeping if you tend to sleep on your back. If you sleep on your side you can slide one headphone off or position your pillow so it allows extra space for the headphone. Plus, the foam on the Bose QC 35 headphones is incredibly soft and comfortable on your head.

They offer volume-optimized EQ to give you balanced audio sound no matter what volume you listen to your music. This is something that Bose has mastered with their technology.

For cordless convenience they are both Bluetooth and NFC compatible, so you won't have to worry about getting tangled up in the wires. The battery life is rated at 20 hours on a full charge, and up to 40 hours in wired mode.

These are more pricey than a lot of other options out there, but for anyone looking for some of the best wireless noise cancelling headphones for sleeping, these are a top option to consider. The bottom line is that the Bose QuietComfort 35 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones offer incredible performance and are perfectly designed give you the peace and quite you need when sleeping and listening to music.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

These comfortable earbuds are made with soft silicone ear tips, which are the same that come on higher-end earbud models. Anyone look for a affordable and versatile earbud that is both comfortable to sleep and doesn't compromise on sound quality, the Maxrock Comfortable Silicon Sleeping Earbuds is a top option.

The tips on the earbuds are shaped with a double layer silicone that gives a great in-ear fit and helps block out any external noise. They come a 3.5 mm jack plug and include a built-in microphone that works with iPhones, Samsung and most other smartphones.

Even as an more budget option these offer surprisingly good sound quality from their 5 mm driver. They work well for traveling, working out, and of course sleeping.

The drawback of the MaxRock Sleeping Earbuds is that they only come with one-size ear tip. This may not be important for many, but if you have a wider or narrower ear canal then you may not get the optimal fit from the one size fits all ear tip.

Overall they are a affordable option for anyone looking for in-ear noise cancelling earphones for sleeping.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

The Hibermate Sleep Headphones & Sleeping Mask is your ultimate tool for getting sleep in loud and bright environments. It offers a 2-in-1 design with both sleep headphones for minimizing external noise and sleeping mask for blocking out unwanted light.

These are ideal for the traveler and great to use while flying, or car, bus, or trail travel. The sleep mask is made from soft memory foam making it comfortable wear in any sleeping position. It's also adjustable to get a snug fit.

You can also wear them as a headband while you listen to music, but the main drawback of these is that the style looks a bit odd when you are not sleeping. This means they are great for getting rest, but you probably won't want to wear them out of the house or at the gym.

The cable is Kevlar-coated for durability tangle free organization. At 3.3 feet it's long enough to conveniently route it to your smartphone or MP3 player.

Like other comparable models, then speakers are integrated into sleeping mask and with soft memory foam ear cushions so they are comfortable even for side sleepers.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

The Mpow Bluetooth Headphones Noise Cancelling are give you everything want in a noise cancelling headphone for sleeping. They are lower priced and feature a foldable design, memory foam earmuffs, a built-in microphone, and Bluetooth technology for wireless listening.

These give the Bose QuietComfort 35 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones a run for their money and won't break your budget. For the price they offer incredibly sound quality and provide good sound reduction.

They don't have active noise cancelling technology, but instead use high-quality memory foam to provide passive noise isolation. The ear covers are made from 'memory-protein' that is made to feel like your skin and make them comfortable for extended wearing.

The thing to consider is that these are normal over the ear headphones, so although they are comfortable, they are wider than other models. If you tend to sleep on your side just account for the bulkiness of these and potentially additional pressure on the ear.

The bottom line is that these have great reviews and provide exceptional sound quality for the price. All while giving you a well-performing noise isolating headphones for sleep.

You can read more reviews and see the latest price here

Headphones for Sleeping Buying Guide

Types of Headphones for sleeping

On the market there are various types of noise cancelling headphones available. You'll find that some models offer active noise cancelling technology and others provide passive noise cancelling.

You can expect to pay more for models with active noise cancelling, however if you want one of the best noise cancelling headphones for sleeping this is the route to go.

Apart from the noise cancelling technology, you can also find sleeping headphones is a wide array of styles.

There are normal over the ear headphones, earbuds, and headbands and sleeping masks with integrated headphones. You'll want to consider which type feels most comfortable to you and also whether or not you are a side sleeper and need a model that does not put extra pressure on your ears.

Why Get Headphones for Sleeping?

Noise cancelling headphones for sleeping are ideal for anyone who needs a peaceful or relaxing environment when getting restful sleep. This makes them great for flying, can, train or bus travel, sleeping in hostels, blocking out traffic noise, or just your noisy neighbors.

They are also great for anyone who just prefers to listen to music when they sleep, especially if you have a partner that does not. You can simply slip these on and fall asleep enjoying your music.

Most models are easy to carry, so you can take them just about anywhere. This way you'll have a way to escape loud environments and enjoy your music, or fall asleep.

How To Choose the Right Model

Type

As seen in the reviews above, there are various types of noise cancelling headphones for sleeping. You'll find over the ear, earbuds, and fabric headbands with built-in headphones. This wide array of styles allows you to choose the right design for your needs.

If you sleep on your side, you may want to consider a headband model with think headphones. For anyone looking for the ultimate noise cancelling performance, look into an noise cancelling earbud or over the ear headphone.

Price Range

There are headphones offered in a wide price range and the good news is you don't have to break your budget to get a comfortable, yet functional option that lets you sleep peacefully.

For passive noise cancelling headphones you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 for a model that offers good sound quality and is comfortable to wear.

A set of active noise cancelling headphones for sleeping will cost a bit more. Expect to pay up to $250+ for the best models, such as the Bose QC 20, which provide superb sound quality and ultimate noise blocking when wearing.

Materials & Durability

For fabric sleeping headphones the most important aspect to consider is what the headband is made from. You'll want to buy a model with high quality fabric and construction that allows you to wash the headband when dirty.

Some headbands are hotter to wear, specifically versions made from micro-fleece or similar materials. This can be great in the winter time, but rather comfortable to warm sleepers in the summer. Consider looking for a model that uses a cooler material such as dryfit.

Durability is one of the biggest factors when choosing electronic products for travel. The last thing you want is that headphones stop working in the middle of a long international trip.

My recommendation is to go with a product (and brand) that has a long track record for being reliable and high quality. Comparing reviews on Amazon.com is one of the best ways to get a indication if the product holds up or not.

Design & Features

Another factor to consider is the headphones design and what special features it offers. Some headphones for sleeping are stylish for everyday use and others you probably won't want to wear out of the house.

Features to consider include built-in microphones for talking on the phone, volume control options, carrying cases, Bluetooth functionality, non-tangle wires, among other features.

Sound Quality

Even though you may be using the headphones primarily for sleeping, sound quality is obviously an important factor. The good news is you don't need to spend a whole lot these days to get a good sounding headphone.

If you plan on using your headphones for both everyday use as well as for sleeping it may make sense to spend a bit more. The best noise cancelling headphones, such as the Bose QuietComfort 20 offer incredible sound quality with a dynamic range and ultra crisp sound.

If you'll only be using your headphones for sleeping purposes, a more inexpensive model will likely suit you just fine.

Comfort

Comfort is the most important factor for sleeping headphones. The last thing you want is to be constantly woken up during sleep due of ear pressure caused from wearing uncomfortable headphones.

A well-designed headphone for sleeping will offer substantial padding around the ear and earbuds will be supple and soft to conform to your ear without causing too much pressure. Silicone earbud tips are generally the most comfortable option and should be offered in several sizes to ensure the right fit.

Packability

Another factor to consider is how easy to carry the headphones are. The smallest and most packable option is to go with noise cancelling earbuds, however fabric headphones like the CozyPhones Sleep Headphones come in a close second, and lastly even some normal over the ear noise cancelling headphones are foldable and pack down to a small size.

The Bottom Line

Noise cancelling headphones for sleeping are ideal for anyone looking for a comfortable way of blocking external noise---anything from loud snoring to traffic noise. There are several types that do the job and it comes down to what you find most comfortable to wear and your preferred sleeping position.

The biggest thing to consider is if you are a side sleeper and how much noise blocking you need. Fabric options with passive noise cancelling do a good job at blocking out mid-range noises, but won't be effective at extra loud noises. Headphones with active noise cancelling provide the highest level of noise blocking, but do come with a higher price tag.

If you are looking to use noise cancelling headphones for sleeping and want some of the best sound quality, take a look at the Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones, Apple Devices, Black.

For a ultra-comfortable fabric headband with built-in headphones, consider CozyPhones Sleep Headphones made from dryfit material to stay cool and comfortable.

You can also read our guides to the best insulated water bottles, the best sling backpacks and other recommended travel products here.