Choosing the best sleep mask: Comparison and buying guide
A good sleep mask blocks light, is comfortable, and suits your sleeping position. But with different materials, shapes, and functions, the choice isn't always easy. In this guide, we compare all options, from silk to Bluetooth, so you can see at a glance which mask is right for you.
Why a sleep mask?
A good sleep mask blocks out light and helps you fall asleep faster and deeper, wherever you are.
Total eclipse
Block out ambient light, so your brain gets the signal to produce what is needed for deep sleep.
Fall asleep faster
Fewer visual stimuli mean that your mind will settle down faster and you'll drift off more easily.
Comfortable & soft
Lightweight material with an adjustable strap: no pressure, no pinching, all night long.
Versatile
At home, while travelling or on a plane: compact to take with you and always the same peace of mind.
Which sleep mask suits your sleeping position?
Your sleeping position determines which shape and thickness works best. A mask that is ideal for a back sleeper may press or shift for a side sleeper.
As a back sleeper, you have the most freedom. Your face doesn't touch the pillow, so a wider mask with light pressure on the eyes is not a problem. Both a cotton and a silk sleep mask work well here.
Good blackout
A thin profile is essential. The mask should not press against your eyelids when you lie on your side, and must stay in place when you turn. Choose a mask with a flat construction and an adjustable strap.
No pressure on the eyes
Your face presses partly into the pillow, so the mask needs to have a minimal profile and stay firmly in place. A lightweight cotton mask without protruding parts works best here.
LightweightSleep Masks Compared: Material and Function
Cotton, silk, Bluetooth and migraine, all options side by side.
| Cotton sleep mask | Silk sleep mask | Bluetooth sleep mask | Migraine mask | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zijslaper-geschikt / profiel | Ja; plat, lichtgewicht profiel | Ja; plat en zacht | Beperkt; speakers kunnen op de zij drukken | Ja; ook bedoeld voor rugligging |
| Material | Cotton, breathable | Mulberry Silk (6A) | Polyester (outer) | Lycra (gel) |
| Light blocking | Complete | Complete | Complete | Partial (focus on pressure/cooling) |
| Special feature | - | Skin-friendly, anti-wrinkle | Bluetooth function | Cold/heat therapy |
| Best for | Daily use, all sleep types | Sensitive skin, premium sleep | Partner who snores, bedtime routine | Headache, migraine, eye strain |
| Washable | Yes (machine-readable) | Hand wash recommended | Speakers removable, cover washable | - |
| Weight | Ultralight (~30g) | Ultralight (~25g) | Light (~80g) | Medium (~600g with gel) |
| Price range | € | €€€ | €€ | €€ |
| Katoenen slaapmaskers | Zijden slaapmaskers | Slaapmasker bluetooth | Migraine maskers |
Niet zeker of dit het juiste middel is? Vergelijk alle slaaphulpmiddelen
What to look for when choosing a sleep mask?
These five factors determine whether a sleep mask will remain comfortable for you in the long term.
Light blocking
A good mask blocks almost all light, including around the bridge of the nose. Pay attention to contoured edges that fit your face shape well.
Comfort and pressure
The mask should not press on your eyelids, which is especially important for side sleepers. A 3D contour or flat profile prevents this.
Material
Cotton breathes well in the heat; silk is softer on skin and hair. Synthetic fabrics can retain warmth.
Fit and Strap
An adjustable strap is essential. Check if the mask stays in place when you turn your head, without pressure behind your ears.
Maintenance
Machine washable is most practical for daily use. Silk requires hand washing, please keep that in mind.
Sleep Mask for specific situations
Not every situation requires the same mask. Below are the best choices per scenario.
On the road
Compact and lightweight is important. Combine with earplugs and a neck pillow for complete comfort. Cotton is the easiest to pack and wash on the go.
Relax and drift away with sound
Do you want to fall asleep more easily or filter out your partner's snoring? A mask with built-in speakers plays white noise, calming music, or meditations, allowing you to clear your mind and relax. No Bluetooth needed? Combine a regular mask with silicone earplugs.
For head and eye strain
A mask with cooling gel can feel refreshing around the eyes and temples. Use it cold for a fresh feeling or at room temperature for gentle relaxation. Do you have persistent complaints? Then consult a doctor.
Sensitive skin
Silk reduces friction against skin and hair and helps prevent sleep lines and irritation. A good choice for reactive or easily irritated skin.
Frequently Asked questions
Didn't find what you were looking for? Feel free to contact us.
Can I use a sleep mask if I wear contact lenses?
Yes, but always remove your contact lenses before putting on a sleep mask. A mask that doesn't press on your eyelids (3D contour or flat profile) prevents pressure on your eyes. Our cotton sleep mask has an eye-friendly fit.
How do I combine a sleep mask with earplugs or a neck pillow?
First, insert your earplugs, then put on the sleep mask; the strap will help keep the earplugs in place. For travel, the combination of a sleep mask with a neck pillow and silicone earplugs is the most complete.
How long does a sleep mask last with daily use?
With daily use and regular washing, a cotton mask lasts an average of 12–18 months. Silk is more delicate: expect 8–12 months with correct hand washing. The Bluetooth sleep mask has a longer lifespan (2+ years) because the speakers are replaceable. View our full collection of sleep masks.
Is a sleep mask hygienic if I wear it every night?
Yes, provided you wash it regularly: for cotton masks at least once a week in the washing machine, for silk once every two weeks handwash. Otherwise, skin oil, sweat, and makeup residue will build up. Tip: alternate between two masks so you always have a clean one.
Can a sleep mask help with an irregular sleep rhythm (night shift, jet lag)?
Absolutely. A sleep mask simulates complete darkness, causing your body to produce melatonin regardless of the time of day. Ideal for those who need to sleep during the day after a night shift, or for jet lag after a long flight. Also read our blog about preventing jet lag.
What's better for a headache: a regular sleep mask or a migraine mask?
A regular sleep mask only blocks light, which is useful for light sensitivity. A migraine mask adds cold/warm therapy: the gel cushion relieves tension around the eyes and temples. For regular headaches or migraines, the migraine mask is more effective; for light sensitivity alone, a standard mask suffices.