Can You Sleep with Earbuds In?
Sleeping with earbuds has become a common practice. Most people find peace in sleeping with earbuds because they enjoy music, playlists, and podcasts that make them comfortable.
But the question that often comes to mind is, can you sleep with earbuds in? Some people sleep with earbuds to find a peaceful environment, while others block out traffic and noise from the surroundings.
This habit is harmful and raises concerns like: Is it bad to sleep with earbuds in? Could it damage your ears and affect how well you sleep?
In this helpful guide, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of sleeping with earbuds.
Don’t worry- we will also share some useful alternatives, and suggest the best earbuds you can sleep with. Now let’s dive deeper.
Table of Contents
Can You Sleep with Earbuds In?
Yes, you can sleep with earbuds in. People living in noisy environments and those who find it hard to sleep can use them at night. But be careful, not all earbuds are for sleeping.
Some are big and hard, while others may fall out or cause ear infections. For many, sleeping with the right earbuds improves their sleep quality.
People often ask, Is sleeping with earbuds bad? The answer is: it can be if we use them carelessly. But with good hygiene and the right earbuds, you can sleep safely.
Why Do People Sleep with Earbuds?
- To block external sounds (snoring, traffic, neighbours)
- To fall asleep faster with calming music or little noise
- To reduce overthinking and anxiety
- For relaxation or guided meditation
Is It Bad to Sleep with Earbuds In?
Let’s have a look at risks.
1. Ear Pain or Pressure
Sleeping with regular earbuds, especially hard ones, can block your ear canal, which can cause swelling, soreness and ear pain.
2. Earwax Buildup
Wearing earbuds all night traps earwax inside. This can lead to blockages or discomfort. If you don’t care, it might even cause hearing loss.
3. Ear Infections
Both moisture and bacteria can be trapped in your ears by earbuds. Your ears could become infected if they are not cleaned often.
4. Hearing Damage
Listening at high volume for long hours, especially with noise-cancelling earbuds, can harm your hearing over time.
5. Broken or Lost Earbuds
Twisting and turning while asleep may break your earbuds or cause one to get stuck deep inside the ear (this is rare but serious).
So, if you’re wondering is it okay to sleep with earbuds in, the answer is: yes, but only if you’re careful.
How to Sleep Safely with Earbuds In?
If you still want to listen to audio while sleeping, follow these tips.
1. Choose Soft, Sleep-Friendly Earbuds
Look for earbuds that are made especially for sleep. These should be soft, small, and shaped to sit comfortably even when lying on your side.
2. Keep the Volume Low
Loud music may damage your ears while you sleep. Keep the volume under 80 decibels.
3. Use One Earbud Instead of Two
Using only one earbud helps reduce pressure or blockage and lets you sleep more comfortably.
4. Keep Earbuds Clean
Regularly remove dirt from your earbuds with a dry, soft cloth to stay protected from ear infections and problems.
5. Don’t Use Noise-Cancelling All Night
Active noise-cancellation can sometimes make users feel intense pressure or dizziness. Make sure to turn ANC off during sleep or use passive earbuds.
6. Try a Sleep Timer
Most music and podcast apps have sleep timers. Set it for 30–60 minutes so the audio stops automatically after you fall asleep.
Top 5 Earbuds You Can Sleep With (2025 Picks)
Here are some of the best earbuds you can sleep with, based on comfort, sound, and safety:
1. Bose Sleepbuds II
- Designed just for sleep
- Ultra-light and soft
- Pre-loaded with relaxing sleep sounds
- Does not stream music or podcasts
2. AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
- Soft silicone tips
- Noise cancellation and transparency mode
- Use with sleep timer and low volume
3. QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds
- Tiny size perfect for side sleepers
- Blocks snoring and outside noise
- Long battery life
4. Soundcore Sleep A10
- Ultra-slim design
- Tracks sleep patterns
- Comfortable all night
5. CozyPhones Sleep Headband
- Fabric headband with flat speakers inside
- Ideal for side sleepers
- Washable and soft
These are among the top earbuds you can sleep with in 2025. Select based on your sleeping style, comfort level, and budget.
Alternatives to Sleeping with Earbuds
If you’re still unsure whether sleeping with earbuds is right for you, here are some great alternatives:
1. White Noise Machines
These create a calming background sound and help mask loud noises.
2. Bluetooth Sleep Headbands
Like CozyPhones, these are soft and won’t hurt your ears at night.
3. Pillow Speakers
Speakers built into your pillow to play soft sounds without anything in your ears.
4. Nature Sounds or Sleep Apps
Apps like Calm, Headspace, or Rain Rain can help you sleep naturally without wearing earbuds.
Is It Safe to Sleep With Earbuds In Every Night?
This is a common question. The honest answer is: yes, but with care.
If you use earbuds made for sleep, keep them clean, and avoid loud music, it is safe to sleep with earbuds in most cases. But don’t ignore signs of pain or discomfort.
Also, give your ears a break. Use earbuds some nights and let your ears rest on others.
Also Read: How to Reset Bose QC Earbuds?
Tips for Healthy Earbud Use During Sleep
- Avoid using wired earbuds while sleeping if you move around a lot—they might get tangled around your neck.
- Replace your earbuds if they become loose, cracked, or dirty.
- Use music with soft sounds (like waves or light piano).
- Avoid loud sounds or sudden changes in volume.
- Take breaks during the week to avoid irritation.
FAQs on Sleeping with Earbuds
Is it bad to sleep with earbuds in every night?
It can be, especially if you don’t clean them or use the wrong type. Try not to wear them all night, every night.
What’s the best sleeping position if wearing earbuds?
Back sleeping works best. But if you’re a side sleeper, use ultra-slim earbuds or a sleep headband.
Is it okay to sleep with earbuds in for naps?
Yes, but limit it to short naps and keep the volume low.
Conclusion: Can You Sleep with Earbuds In?
So, should you sleep with earbuds in? Yes. But that depends on how you do it.
If you choose the right earbuds, keep them clean, and listen at a safe volume, then sleeping with earbuds can be a peaceful and useful habit. But ignoring the risks could hurt your ears or ruin your sleep.
Try using specially designed earbuds you can sleep with or safe alternatives like headbands or pillow speakers. Your ears and sleep are both important.
Do you sleep with earbuds in? And does this guide help you sleep better? Let us know in the comments.