Introduction
A sleep mask costs very little, takes up almost no space — and significantly improves sleep quality when travelling. Yet most people don't wear one. Here are five things you should know about sleep masks before your next trip — before you end up falling asleep without one again.
1. The Material Makes All the Difference
Not all sleep masks are created equal. The most important materials compared:
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Silk: Pleasantly cool against the skin, especially gentle on the delicate eye area.
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Cotton: Breathable and washable — great for everyday use.
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Memory foam padding: Blocks light completely without putting pressure on the eyes — ideal for frequent travellers.
As a rule of thumb: the longer the journey, the more important the quality of the material.
2. Not Just for Travel
Shift workers, people living in bright, urban environments, or anyone who's simply sensitive to light can benefit from a sleep mask at home too. Light disrupts your sleep cycle — whether it's morning or midnight.
3. Sleep Masks and Melatonin
Melatonin — the body's sleep hormone — is suppressed by light. A sleep mask helps create the darkness the body needs for natural melatonin production. This is particularly relevant when dealing with jet lag or unusual sleep schedules.
4. Children and Sleep Masks
Children who struggle to fall asleep in unfamiliar surroundings — in a hotel, while camping, or on long journeys — can also benefit from a sleep mask. The key is to choose a mask specifically designed for children: smaller fit, softer materials, and no pressure on the face. Sleep masks can be introduced for children from around 3–4 years of age, under parental supervision.
5. What Makes a Good Sleep Mask
When buying, look out for the following:
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Complete light blocking: Including at the sides, not just the front.
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No pressure on the eyes: Especially important for longer periods of wear.
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Adjustable elastic band: So the mask stays in place without digging in.
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Washable: Hygiene matters when you're travelling.
A good sleep mask works best alongside the right neck pillow. Together, they create the foundation for truly restorative sleep on the go. Find our neck pillows here! If you're not sure which model suits you best, we're happy to help.