Our Pick of the Best Headphones for Sleeping + Evening Relaxation
TL;DR:
- Consider comfort (especially for side sleepers), noise isolation/cancellation, in-ear monitor (IEM) types, and wired vs. wireless options when choosing.
- Top headphone picks include Sony WF-1000XM5 (IEMs), Sennheiser IE600 (side sleepers), Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 (noise-cancelling), and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless (wireless).
- These headphones enhance sleep routines by providing comfort, aiding meditation, delivering soothing audio, and blocking disruptive noise.
- Enhance your listening experience with binaural beats and curated mindfulness playlists for deeper relaxation.
The day is winding down, the lights are dim, and all you want is a little peace, whether you’re trying to drift into a deep sleep or just enjoy some quiet evening relaxation. But with constant noise around you and your own thoughts refusing to settle, finding that calm can feel almost impossible. That’s where finding the best headphones for sleeping can make all the difference. The right pair can block out distractions, soothe your mind with calming sounds, and guide you into pure relaxation.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most comfortable and effective audio options designed to help you unwind and recharge. From headphones built for side sleepers to noise-canceling options that create a personal bubble of calm, we’ll help you discover the ideal pair to transform your nights and evenings into moments of true tranquility.
What to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Sleeping and Relaxation
When it comes to winding down at night with the right headphones, it's not just about sound quality. Comfort, fit, and features all play a role in helping you relax and fall asleep. Here’s what to keep in mind when looking for the best headphones for going to sleep with.
Comfort is Key
If your headphones aren't comfortable, you're not going to enjoy wearing them, especially not while trying to sleep.
Look for soft, breathable materials, lightweight construction, and a design that feels natural to wear in bed. Low-profile shapes tend to be better because they don’t press into your ear or pillow.
Side sleepers face extra challenges here. The best sleep headphones for side sleepers need to sit flat against your ear so they don’t cause pressure or discomfort when your head hits the pillow. Some headphones are specifically designed with this in mind and are definitely worth checking out.
Noise Isolation vs. Noise Cancellation
There’s a difference between noise isolation and noise cancellation, and it’s helpful to know which one suits your needs.
Noise isolation means the headphones block out sound by physically sealing your ears. Think snug ear tips that reduce outside noise on their own. Active noise cancellation (ANC) goes a step further, using built-in microphones to detect and cancel out background sounds.
If you're trying to block out a snoring partner or noisy neighbors, the best noise-cancelling headphones for sleeping can be a game-changer. That said, some of the best noise reduction headphones for sleeping don’t use ANC at all but still do a solid job thanks to a tight, comfortable fit.
Headphone Types
Over-ear and on-ear headphones can sound great, but they’re not ideal for sleeping. They're usually too big and can get in the way when you're lying down.
In-ear monitors (IEMs), on the other hand, are a great option. They’re small, low-profile, and fit snugly in your ears. Many people find them to be the most comfortable headphones to sleep in, especially since they tend to stay in place no matter how much you move around.
Wired vs. Wireless (Bluetooth)
Both wired and wireless headphones have their pros and cons for sleep.
Wired headphones don’t require charging, which can be convenient. However, the cord can become tangled or pull on your ear during the night.
Wireless (Bluetooth) headphones offer more freedom to move, which can be helpful for light sleepers or those who change positions often. Still, battery life is something to consider.
The best wireless headphones for sleeping typically offer enough charge to last through the night and may even include auto shut-off timers to save power.
Features for Relaxation
Overall, a few thoughtful features can make bedtime listening more enjoyable:
- A slim, low-profile design that doesn’t dig into your ears or pillow.
- A secure fit so the headphones stay in place all night.
- Long battery life for overnight use if you're going wireless.
- Easy-to-use controls so you’re not fumbling around in the dark.
Our Top Picks: Headphones You Can Actually Wear to Bed
When it comes to sleeping with headphones, the right design makes all the difference. Below, we’re breaking down the best options by category. So, if you're a side sleeper, need active noise cancellation, or prefer wireless convenience, you’ll find something that suits your bedtime routine.
IEMs for Comfortable Sleep
As mentioned earlier, IEMs are a reliable choice. Their compact design makes them far more practical for sleep than bulkier headphone styles. But not all IEMs are created equal, especially when it comes to comfort during long periods of use.
Our Top Pick: Sony WF-1000XM5
These stand out as one of the best IEMs for sleep, thanks to their soft, noise-isolating tips and smooth, ergonomic shape. These wireless earbuds are designed to rest naturally in your ear without causing pressure or irritation, making them well-suited for relaxing in bed or dozing off.
What sets this model apart is the thoughtful blend of fit and function. You get premium audio and effective noise cancellation and might almost forget you’re wearing them.
Best Sleep Headphones for Side Sleepers
Side sleepers know the struggle—most headphones dig into your ear the second you turn your head. That’s where ultra-slim IEMs come in handy.
Our Top Pick: Sennheiser IE600
This pair of IEMs is known for its extremely low-profile design and lightweight build. The IE600 features a compact housing that doesn’t protrude, making it a solid choice for those who sleep on their side.
It also comes with multiple ear tip options for a personalized fit, reducing pressure and irritation when resting against a pillow.
Top Picks by Feature
Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Sleeping
If background sounds like snoring, traffic, or a noisy fan tend to disrupt your sleep, noise-cancelling headphones can help you settle into a quieter, more peaceful environment.
Our Top Pick: Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
These true wireless earbuds come equipped with powerful active noise cancellation and a comfortable, ergonomic design. They help mute environmental noise while staying secure in your ears as you drift off to sleep.
Plus, their compact form factor makes them a realistic option for sleeping, especially if you're lying on your back.
Best Wireless Headphones for Sleeping
Going wireless can make sleeping with headphones feel less restrictive.
Our Top Pick: Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones
While these are over-ear headphones, they’re surprisingly light and cushioned, making them a decent choice for back sleepers. They offer top-tier noise cancellation, excellent sound, and up to 30 hours of battery life.
If you tend to fall asleep on your back and value immersive sound and quiet, these can work well.
How These Headphones Enhance Your Sleep and Evening Routine
A good evening routine sets the tone for better sleep, and the right headphones can play a big part in that. If you're meditating, listening to a calming playlist, or winding down with a podcast, these headphones help create a more focused and peaceful atmosphere.
Here’s how they can help you unwind until you drift off to sleep:
Ultimate Comfort in Bed
As we’ve discussed, comfort plays a major role in how effective headphones are for sleep.
The headphones we’ve recommended feature soft ear tips, lightweight construction, and low-profile designs that won’t dig into your ears or shift around while lying down.
Many are shaped to rest naturally against your ear, so even side sleepers can wear them without discomfort. No matter if you're lying flat or propped up on a pillow, these headphones are designed to stay comfortable throughout the night.
Meditation and Mindfulness
If meditation is part of your evening routine, the right headphones can help you stay focused and grounded. A snug fit and solid noise isolation reduce background distractions, making it easier to concentrate on breathing exercises, guided sessions, or mindfulness apps. This added focus helps set a peaceful tone before bed.
Soothing Music and Podcasts
Soft music, ambient soundscapes, or a calming podcast all become more immersive and personal with these headphones.
The clear audio lets you enjoy your favorite content without disturbing others. This personal sound bubble can make it easier to relax and mentally disconnect from the day.
Falling Asleep Peacefully
Unwanted noise can keep you from falling asleep or cause you to wake up during the night. These headphones help block out those disturbances so you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Consistent, calming audio, like white noise, rain sounds, or a soothing voice, can help you settle into deeper rest.
Easy to Wear Comfortably in Bed
What makes these headphones especially sleep-friendly is how easy they are to use in bed. Their lightweight feel, flexible fit, and wireless options make them a hassle-free choice for nighttime use.
With multiple ear tip sizes and simple controls, they’re built to feel like a natural part of your routine—something you can put on and forget about until morning.
Make Your Relaxing Listening Even Better
Once you’ve found the right headphones for bedtime, the next step is choosing what to listen to. The right audio content can enhance your relaxation, support focus during meditation, and help you ease into deeper, more restful sleep.
Here are two great ways to level up your nighttime listening.
Explore the Power of Binaural Beats
Binaural beats work by playing two slightly different tones in each ear, which your brain blends into a single tone. Depending on the frequency, this can help promote relaxation, focus, or even support better sleep.
They’re a popular tool for calming the mind and easing into a more restful state. When paired with comfortable, bedtime-friendly headphones, binaural beats can create a peaceful, immersive experience that makes it easier to settle in and unwind.
Discover Curated Mindfulness Playlists
At Moon Audio, we’ve curated a playlist built for relaxation and mindfulness. It includes gentle music and soothing tones that are perfect for evening use.
Listening through the right pair of headphones helps you tune into the moment and tune out the rest. Doing a guided meditation, stretching before bed, or simply lying back with your eyes closed can all be enhanced by this playlist, helping you create a calm and focused atmosphere before sleep.
Find Your Perfect Fit for a More Relaxing Night
A calm, comfortable bedtime routine can make a big difference in how well you rest. The best headphones for sleeping add a layer of ease and focus to your evening, helping you enjoy soothing audio, block out distractions, and settle in for the night with less effort.
At Moon Audio, we offer a wide selection of headphones designed specifically with comfort, relaxation, and sound quality in mind. You'll find options that suit side sleepers, wireless preferences, and those who simply want a more peaceful wind-down experience.
Check out our collection to find a pair that fits your needs. If you have questions or need help choosing the right headphones, our team is here to help you get started.
