Sleep masks may seem to be all the same but these sleep aids can vary greatly, from how much light they block out to the amount of pressure they apply to your eyes. So, over the course of several months, we tested 14 sleep masks to find the best option for you. We focused on uniqueness in design, how much light each filtered out and comfortability during several nights’ worth of sleep wearing each. Ultimately, one sleep mask won us over for its dream-inducing design.
The Mavogel Sleep Mask features a genius nose wire so it blocks all — and we mean all — the light. The mask is soft on the eyes and comfortable on the head, and it never so much as budged during the night, no matter our sleep position. Through March 10, get an extra 20% off the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask with exclusive code 20CNNSLEEP.
Best sleep mask: Mavogel Sleep Mask
$20 $8 at Amazon
You don’t always have to pay top dollar to get the best the world has to offer. Case in point: the Mavogel Sleep Mask.
Let’s get right to our favorite thing about this mask: the adjustable nose wire. Similar to the nose wire in surgical face masks, the Mavogel’s nose wire lets you get the perfect light-blocking, lock-in-place fit. Many masks had a slight crack of light around the nose bridge. This mask, though, formed the best seal around the edges, blocking out more light than any other mask we tested.
The 100% cotton fabric is some of the softest jersey we’ve ever felt against the eyes. The Mavogel is so light, soft and airy that it has a barely-there feeling. While we found all masks to press on our eyelids ever so slightly that blinking was noticeable, this mask provided the lowest amount of pressure on the eyelids of all the nonelevated masks that we tried.
It’s the slim, nonelevated profile of the Mavogel that makes it a winner for all sleep styles: back, side, stomach or combination. It withstood a rigorous tossing-and-turning test like a champ by not budging out of position — thanks to that nose wire — and hair did not get tangled in the strap. We do wish that the adjustable head strap were a tad wider to spread out the line of pressure around the head, but it was so subtle that we’re really splitting hairs to make this comment. Tapered wings connecting the strap and mask prevent light leakage from the sides, and these little ditties did the job just right. Other masks that we tested had much larger wings without a larger observed benefit.
Though more than half of the masks that we tested come with their own travel bag or box, the one that came with the Mavogel was the most well thought out. The small pouch comes with a little carabiner so that it can easily be clipped onto any travel bag. The only thing we don’t like about the bag is that the mask has to be folded to fit inside, which affect the nose wire, which can become deformed over time if you keep folding it up to fit into the pouch.
Thanks to its unique nose bridge, effective side wings and staying power, we’re confident you won’t find a better sleep mask than the Mavogel — especially considering its price.
Through March 10, get an extra 20% off the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask with exclusive code 20CNNSLEEP.
How we tested
Build
- Light blockage: A sleep mask that doesn’t block the light is like a swimming pool without water. That’s why we weighted this category more than others. Masks that even showed the slighted crack of light lost a point. We tested in broad daylight and at night in a less-than-pitch-black New York City apartment.
- Material composition: When something is going to sit on your eyes all night while you sleep, it has to be soft and breathable. While testing, we were careful to note if the skin where the mask touched felt hot, cold or uncomfortable at all. We also paid attention to how our eyes felt after a night of rest with the mask on. Were they dry? Did they feel stifled? The softer and more breathable the mask, the more it impressed us.
- Face-shape versatility: No two faces are exactly the same, and that becomes glaringly apparent when trying to find an eye mask that works for everyone. We judged each mask on its ability to accommodate a variety of face shapes and sizes, nose types, cheekbone types and eye types. The more versatile, the better we rated this element.
- Overall build: We stretched elastics, balled them up, washed them, dried them and slept in them to see how they held up to typical wear and tear. Then we judged which ones took a beating, still worked and looked like new.
- Packability: Sleep masks are a popular travel companion for frequent flyers, and our top pick had to pack well. We looked at how the mask itself withstood being jammed into a suitcase or purse and if it came with a travel bag of its own. Masks did not impress us if they easily got wrinkled or damaged, or if they damaged other objects in the bag.
- Weight: Going into this test we weren’t sure if weight would matter or not, so we decided to weigh each mask and then determine if that had an impact. It turned out that it wasn’t a consistent way to judge a mask. Some lighter masks felt better than heavier and vice versa.
- Washability: This was another surprising category. We had assumed that at least one of the masks would be machine-washable, but none of the masks that we tested met that expectation. We judged this category by how difficult each mask was to clean, dry and make ready to wear again. Some did better with the press of an iron, while others could be rinsed in the morning and worn in the afternoon without any fuss. One actually couldn’t be washed at all. The highest marks went to the masks that could be cleaned well without extra steps or difficulty.
- Color options: We like options when it comes to a personal accessory like this, so masks that offered more colors and patterns got higher marks.
Function
- Rest quality: Now, this category was a tricky one. We judged how well a mask stayed on while sleeping, but sometimes it didn’t matter if it fell off. Why? We kept on sleeping and didn’t even notice the mask was missing because it helped us fall asleep so hard. We considered that a win.
- Stability: The last thing that we want is to notice the mask in a way that’s distracting, painful or annoying. Masks that shifted, were noticeable or even — gasp! — woke us up lost points. We especially noted if it caused uncomfortable pressure on the head, eyes or face. If a mask stayed put and felt invisible, it came out on top.
- Heat/dryness: Ew. We hoped we wouldn’t come across a mask that really failed this test, and luckily, we didn’t. Some felt dry and some felt a little swampy, so they lost marks, but none were a total fail. Phew.
- Adjustability: During this test, we measured each eye mask and band to determine the minimum and maximum head circumference and then weighed that against the average head sizes for adult men and women. It was surprising to see how far a few masks strayed from meeting the average in both directions.
- Hair damage: Wearing an elastic band around your head all night could cause breakage or other hair damage, so we put each mask to the test. Masks that left our hair less tangled and with more typical bedhead got higher marks.
- Warranty: Because masks tend to be low-ticket items, a guarantee or warranty turned out to be elusive at best. If one was available in any fashion, it got marks. Three of the 14 masks we tested fell into that category.
Other sleep masks we tested
Slip Silk Sleep Mask
$50 From $38 at Slip or $50 Sephora
The Slip Silk Sleep Mask is incredibly similar to other masks we tested, like the Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask. The silk fabric feels cool and breathable on the skin and the band sat comfortably on the back of the head without tugging or pulling at our hair. We also liked the simple design of the Slip mask, which true to its name, slips on and off the head with ease and blocks out most light without adding extra bulk on top of your eyes or brow bone. The Slip mask is essentially an upgraded version of the classic airplane sleep mask, and while we love how the luxe silk fabric glides across the head, for almost $40 less, you’ll get a lot of the same benefits from the Mavogel mask. Though if you’re keen to have a silk mask to match your silk pillowcase or for its beauty perks, the Slip mask is still a great option.
Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask
$50 at Lunya
Few sleep masks are as plush and luxurious as the Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask. The mask itself essentially feels like an extra pillow wrapped around your head, and as you would imagine, it’s incredibly comfortable. The large eye covers block almost all light, covering from just above your nostrils up to the mid-forehead, while the wide headband fits on top of your ears, helping to softly dampen sound while you snooze. As a bonus, it also comes with its own silk drawstring sack, which makes storing and traveling with the mask more hygienic. But as sumptuous as the Lunya mask is, we recognize the plush nature might feel too bulky for some sleepers.
While light-leakage is minimal, the Lunya mask also lacks an adjustable nose bridge to create a properly personalized fit. While our tester found the Lunya mask to have a relaxed fit, we know that might not be true for everyone, and the nonadjustable headband means that some users may find the mask too tight or too loose to sleep in night after night. Though to help with these fit issues, the mask is available in small and large sizes.
You can score at extra 15% off Lunya’s silk sleep masks and other luxurious products when you use the CNN exclusive code FOR-CNNSLEEP15 at checkout through March 10.
Cozy Earth Stretch-Knit Bamboo Sleep Mask
$45 $36 at Cozy Earth
The Cozy Earth Stretch-Knit Bamboo Sleep Mask felt soft against our skin and allowed us to sleep comfortably throughout the night. We also liked the mask’s deep nose cut and wide eye covers, which in tandem helped to block out light coming from all angles. However, the Cozy Earth mask felt a bit heavier on our eyes than the Slip or Mavogel masks, probably due to the fluffy filling inside. We also found it hard to get a perfect fit with the headband, since the band is too large to tuck fully behind the ears but not large enough to fully cover them either. Instead, the mask rested on the top half of our ears, which didn’t feel the most secure as our head hit the pillow.
Score an extra 35% off sitewide at Cozy Earth when you use the CNN exclusive code CNNSLEEP at checkout through March 10.
Ostrichpillow Eye Mask
$45 at Ostrichpillow
Sleeping in the Ostrichpillow Eye Mask, on our backs or our sides, was the stuff of dreams. We slept in total darkness peacefully, and even if we had to get up in the middle of the night, it was simple to remove the mask and reapply it without much fumbling. One drawback to this mask, because of the soft but structured cups around the eyes with the Ostrich — very successful at keeping the mask in place and blocking light — sleeping facedown doesn’t feel natural at first. So, considering the price difference, we think you’re better off with the all-around great Mavogel.
Take an extra 20% off the Ostrichpillow Eye Mask with exclusive code CNNSLEEP at checkout through March 10.
Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask
$29 From $25 at Brooklinen
The Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask didn’t disappoint much, with its simple flash of fine fabric that worked like a charm and felt like the luxury experience we expected. It kept our skin feeling cool throughout the night and our hair untangled in the morning, and it was able to comfortably accommodate sleep in almost any position. However, because it lacks a Velcro closure and adjustable nose wire, it wasn’t as adjustable as our winner, which caused a string of differences. Differences include a smidge of light leakage and a tighter fit over the eyelids, not to mention it couldn’t accommodate as wide of a range of head circumferences.
Yana Aromatherapy Mask
$49 at Yana
If you can’t afford a trip to the spa, then the Yana Aromatherapy Mask makes for a suitable alternative. Not only is it weighted, providing a touch of adding pressure against the forehead and temples to activate the parasynthetic nervous system (the stuff that calms you down), but it’s scented with a touch of therapeutic lavender and flaxseed, making for an all-around invigorating yet calming experience. The Velcro strap allows for a personalized fit while the copper-infused satin cover (which you can refrigerate) feels nice and cool against the skin on humid nights. The inner pouch is also microwave-safe for up to 30 seconds, should you be looking for more of a hug for your face. Maintenance is, predictably, a bit tricky. After washing on a cold and gentle cycle and line drying, it lost some of its softness. While it’s certainly relaxing, the weight of the mask might feel overwhelming for a full night’s sleep for some sleepers.
Get an extra 40% off sitewide through March 30 with the exclusive code CNNSLEEP40.
Coop Sleep Goods Silk Eye Mask
$40 at Coop Sleep Goods
The Coop Sleep Goods Silk Eye Mask is an all-around great sleep mask if you like the look and feel of silk, plus its restorative benefits on both hair and skin. In testing over the last three months, this mask — made of 16.5 momme mulberry silk — has been a consistent go-to for its perfect balance of breathability, softness and blackout properties. Like all silk, it is quite finicky to maintain: After only spot-cleaning, it still looks as though it’s been through the ringer from the natural oils from our skin. It comes with a gathered elastic closure, which is not ideal for head circumferences of all sizes. It also stretched considerably since first wear, making it fare better when paired with another mask on top just to create a tightening effect.
Through March 10, earn an additional 15% off sitewide with CNN-exclusive code CNNSLEEP.
MZOO Eye Mask
$29 $22 at Amazon
The MZOO Eye Mask comes with a pillow of satin-covered foam surrounding each eye, elevating the mask. This is a brilliant feature for eye comfort because eyes can blink naturally without feeling the mask, and there isn’t any pressure on the eyelids. Bonus: It also provides an extra light barrier and is perfect for people with false eyelashes. The mask is more for back sleepers, though, as it is incredibly comfortable — so long as you’re not on your side or stomach. Roll over to your side and those cozy light-blocking foam pads may cause the mask to push out of position, cause too much pressure on the eye area or both.
Brownmed IMAK Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow
$15 at Walmart
The Brownmed IMAK Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow was noticeably different from the other masks that we tested. First of all, it’s heavy at 186 grams. And that is because it’s filled with little beads that nestle into your cheeks and eyebrows to provide a soothing pressure. Its narrow elastic headband initially felt like a joke, but it actually worked pretty well. Obviously, this mask isn’t for side or stomach sleepers or for people who toss and turn at night because of its bulk. In fact, it’s really not great for a full night of sleep. But it is excellent for a de-stressing nap on your back or even in your desk chair.
Alaska Bear Natural Silk Eye Mask
From $10 at Amazon
The Alaska Bear Natural Silk Eye Mask is a low-priced mask that didn’t come close to our winner, but it held its own. This mask is your standard, run-of-the-mill sleep mask. If a mask that reflects your personality is just as important as the fit, then this mask — which comes in a variety of color, pattern and art options — is your match. It’s easy to pack, comes with a storage bag, blocks out most of the light, and works for a variety of sleep styles and face shapes. However, it does not meet the top-tier standards in a bunch of areas. This mask’s silk caught on our eyelashes when we blinked. It also got wrinkled after it came off during the night and left our hair slightly tangled. So, for the same price, we’d much rather get the Mavogel Sleep Mask.
Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask
$25 at Amazon
The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask’s cupped design makes it look like a tiny strapless bathing suit top for your eyes. It also looks almost exactly like another mask that we tested: the Bucky. This mask impressed us less than our winner, but that doesn’t mean the Nidra is a total throwaway. Those weird eye cups are actually extremely comfortable for people who blink or open their eyes in their sleep — or who wear false lashes. But it did not fare super well in many of our tests. It came off early in the night due to shifting. Our hair was staticky after a night of wearing the mask, and the mask itself got deeply wrinkled after one night. We wouldn’t recommend throwing this into a suitcase without putting it in a bag or box — it doesn’t come with one — because the Velcro can snag on other fabrics and objects. The brand does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, however, which was one of the most generous guarantees in our testing pool. Overall, this mask was fine but not great.
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Sleep Mask
$29 at Tempur-Pedic
Admittedly, we were excited to test the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Sleep Mask. Tempur-Pedic is known for its incredibly comfortable, conforming foam in all of its uses, and an eye mask seemed like a natural extension. Unfortunately, this mask did not impress us. Why? The Tempur-Sleep Mask is just too bulky — and without purpose. The extra rolls of foam around the bottom are so big that the mask wouldn’t stay under our eyes. Our cheeks pushed them up on top of our eyelids. The fabric collected dust and lint more than any other mask tested, and it felt drier on the skin and eyes than the other masks.
Another point of issue was the pressure on the nose and cheeks that actually got to a point of hurting and waking us up. The Tempur-Sleep Mask cannot be washed, and it absorbs creams and moisture from the skin. Plus, the Velcro closure will snag fabrics if not carefully packed separately in a suitcase. However, this mask blocks out light like nobody’s business, and if you have the right face shape, it could be a good choice for you. It also comes with the most robust warranty of the masks we tested, at a full year.
Bucky 40 Blinks No-Pressure Eye Mask
$18 From $10 at Amazon
When we took the Bucky 40 Blinks No-Pressure Eye Mask out of its packaging, we thought there was a mistake: It looked like we got another Nidra mask. But after closer inspection, we did find a few differences, and they didn’t impress us as the Nidra mask did. There were also a couple of elements that were better than the Nidra, but those didn’t take it into star status. The Bucky mask is ever so slightly larger, which oddly, made it less effective at blocking light. The material felt a little rougher and more textured than the Nidra and other masks we tested. We like that it comes in seven colors and unique prints, including marble, floral and even tie-dye. One cool thing about the Bucky — and the Nidra, for that matter — is that it fits a wide range of head sizes, from 16.5 inches to 25 inches un-stretched, making it an option for kids as well as adults. Although this unique cupped mask has its perks, it wasn’t enough to win us over in the end.