Manta Sleep Original Mask
This one-of-a-kind sleep mask has removable eye cups so you can adjust them for greater comfort - or replace with other cup options.
The original Manta sleep mask is a bestselling product and one of the most popular eye masks in the UK. 🏆
It is made of soft and breathable materials and has a unique ergonomic design to allow for a 100% blackout experience without excessive eye pressure or discomfort.
The padded eye cups are soft and squishy and feel very soft on the skin. 🤗
You can use this mask comfortably in any sleeping position, but it's especially well-suited to back sleepers.
What makes the Manta sleep mask so unique, however, is that the eye cups are removable, leaving you with a head strap that can be used on its own (though it's a little less soft and comfortable).
But this feature also allows you to adjust the sleep mask to suit your face perfectly and gives you the opportunity to add on any of the other Manta sleep eye cups available. 🔧
Two of the best options include the Manta Cool eye cups and the Manta Steam eye cups, both of which offer relaxation and relief for tired, sore, or dry eyes. ❄️♨️
Conveniently, the Manta sleep mask also comes with a travel pouch that doubles as a laundry bag - the mask is fully machine-washable.
This is great news for people concerned about hygiene or frequent travellers. 🚂
Manta Sleep products come with free delivery within the UK, a 60-day trial period, and a 6-month guarantee.
| Manta Sleep Mask | |
| Composition: | Modal and polycotton |
| Eye cover: | Padded and removable cups |
| Maximum head strap circumference: | 73 cm (28.7 inches) |
| Washing instructions: | Machine-washable; air-dry flat |
| Advantages: | Fully customisable, 100% blackout experience, soft and comfortable, machine-washable, travel and laundry bag included |
| Disadvantages: | Some side sleepers may find the padded eye cups uncomfortable - the Manta Pro with C-shaped cups is a better alternative |
Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask
- Mulberry silk
- Gentle on skin & hair
- Machine-washable
Tell me more about the Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask
The Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask has a padded design that creates a cocoon of darkness.
This makes it ideal for lighter sleepers seeking a night of uninterrupted slumber.
Crafted using luxurious pure 22 momme, mulberry silk, it is sumptuously soft and gentle on the skin and hair.
The thick, silk-covered, adjustable strap allows you to customise the fit, ensuring your mask stays put all night long.
Additionally, the Drowsy sleep mask's thick strap completely covers the ears, muffling sound for a better night's sleep.
But it's worth knowing that it may also feel too bulky for those who sleep on their front or side.
Reasons to buy
Blocks light & reduces sound |
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Protects skin & hair |
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Luxurious materials |
Reasons to avoid
Fairly expensive |
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May be too bulky for side & stomach sleepers |
Tempur Sleep Mask
- Tempur memory foam filling & cotton and polyester cover
- Adjustable straps
- Moulds to shape of your face
Tell me more about the Tempur Sleep Mask
The Tempur Sleep Mask stands out as a premium choice with a memory foam filling that moulds to the contours of your face.
Its use of Tempur foam ensures a more comfortable fit and prevents any light from sneaking in.
The mask, crafted with a soft grey velour finish, adds a touch of cosy luxury to your bedtime routine.
Fitted with two adjustable Velcro straps, it generally offers a snug fit for various head sizes and stays in place throughout the night.
The eye area is specially cushioned, providing comfort and pressure relief, which is crucial for a restful sleep experience.
However, some people find the Tempur Sleep Mask too heavy, noting that the padded bottom pinches their noses.
Reasons to buy
2-year guarantee |
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Adjustable straps |
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Moulds perfectly to your face shape |
Reasons to avoid
Quite expensive |
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Not machine-washable |
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The bulky design is unsuitable for stomach/back sleepers |
Alaska Bear Sleep Mask
- Silk cover & cotton filling
- Contours to eye shape
- Great for dry eyes, allergies & sensitive skin
Tell me more about the Alaska Bear Sleep Mask
The Alaska Bear Sleep Mask is made from 100% organic mulberry silk.
Silk is linked to anti-ageing benefits as it reduces friction and maintains skin moisture, which can help prevent wrinkles around the delicate eye area.
Furthermore, the mask offers a cooler, relaxing experience since silk is breathable.
For those suffering from dry eyes, particularly if the eyelids don't fully close, this mask gently holds the eyes shut, preventing morning dryness and discomfort.
Featuring a deeper nose cutout, the Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask contours comfortably to various face shapes without putting pressure on the nose while ensuring 100% light blockage.
Even after having been reviewed by almost 40,000 customers, this sleep mask still has an impressive 4.5-star rating.
Reasons to buy
Highly-rated by customers |
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Hypoallergenic materials |
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Promotes healthy skin & eyes |
Reasons to avoid
Stitching may come undone after some use |
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May not be a perfect fit for everyone |
Ostrichpillow Eye Mask
- Breathable modal fabric & 6 layers of foam
- Adjustable velcro strap
- Machine-washable
Tell me more about the Ostrichpillow Eye Mask
The Ostrichpillow Eye Mask offers a 100% blackout experience that allows you to get a good night's sleep no matter where you are.
The ergonomic design creates a cavity that allows you to open your eyes while wearing it and ensures you'll experience zero pressure on your eyelids.
The Ostrichpillow eye mask, as the claims suggest, is super soft and comfortable, especially when sleeping on your back.
A tighter fit also adds pressure, so you're likely to wake up with an imprint of the eye mask on your face.
It has an adjustable velcro strap so it can be customised to fit all heads and faces, and the exact fit you'll experience will depend on how tightly you've wrapped it around your head.
It is delivered protected in its carry bag and placed into a small FSC-approved cardboard cylinder.
Reasons to buy
100-day return period |
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2-year guarantee |
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100% blackout experience |
Reasons to avoid
Not comfortable for side sleeping |
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A tighter fit may leave an imprint |
Why use a sleep mask?
Sleep masks are becoming increasingly popular [1] worldwide.
The primary benefit of wearing a sleep mask is to enhance your sleep quality by blocking light, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. 😴
These nifty little sleep accessories are ideal for travel and offer several additional benefits.
We’ll get into these benefits after we discuss how a sleep mask can help you sleep better! 👇
Using sleep masks for better sleep
Sleep masks focus on controlling light exposure.
They help create an ideal dark environment that tells your brain it's time to rest.
By blocking out light, sleep masks aid our bodies in producing the sleep hormone melatonin. 🙈
Melatonin is vital to our natural circadian rhythm [2], which controls various body processes, including sleep, alertness, temperature, and appetite.
Being in a dark environment makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. 💤
While anyone can benefit from less light exposure when trying to sleep, blackout sleep masks are particularly beneficial for some.
These include:
- People who are easily woken by light.
- Those with different sleep schedules, such as shift workers.
- Individuals who travel frequently and struggle to sleep on the go or in new locations.
While sleep masks primarily work to block light, their benefits extend beyond this.
Sleep mask benefits
Sleep masks contribute to overall health improvements associated with better sleep. 💪
These include enhanced cognitive function [3], mental well-being [4], and even weight management [5].
Eye masks for sleep are small and affordable, making them a great product to try if you’re facing difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep. 🌛
While the core purpose and benefits of wearing a sleep mask revolve around improving sleep, that's not all they're good for.
Additional sleep mask benefits
Sleep masks can offer several perks beyond aiding sound sleep.
These include:
- Soothing dry eyes: For those who suffer from dry eyes, especially in air-conditioned or heated environments, a sleep mask can create a protective barrier, reducing airflow over the eyes and helping to maintain moisture.
- Reducing wrinkles: Pure silk sleep masks, in particular, can help minimise the formation of wrinkles. The smooth texture of silk creates less friction on the skin [6], which can reduce sleep creases and pressure on the delicate eye area.
- Maintaining skin hydration: Silk is less absorbant than cotton or synthetic fabrics. Wearing a silk sleep mask can keep your nightly eye creams and serums in place, potentially improving skin hydration and the efficacy of your skincare routine.
- Relieving sinus pressure: Some heavy or weighted sleep masks are believed to engage facial pressure points and soothe sinus pressure and headaches.
- Relaxation and temperature regulation: Masks like the Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask have removable inserts that can be cooled or heated to help you reach the perfect temperature, relieve headaches and sinus pressure, or feel soothe puffiness.
Now we know all about sleep mask benefits, it’s time to dig a little deeper into what’s available. 👇
Types of sleeping masks
Before we discuss how to choose a sleep mask, let’s have a quick overview of the types of sleep masks available.
These include:
- Fabric sleep masks: Common materials include silk, cotton, and polyester.
- Contoured eye masks: Cushioned and shaped to fit the face without putting pressure on the eyes.
- Heated or cooling sleep masks: Often gel-based, these can be heated or chilled for therapeutic effects.
- Weighted eye masks: Apply gentle pressure to promote relaxation and stress relief.
Most of these slip sleep masks have adjustable headbands to prevent the mask from falling off during the night.
Each type of sleep mask caters to different needs, from simple light blocking to specific therapeutic benefits. 💆
Some sleep masks also combine various features.
For instance, the Drowsy Sleep Mask is a padded, contoured pure silk sleep mask.
It's an excellent choice if you’re looking for a luxury sleep experience. 💅
How to choose the best sleep mask
With so many eye sleep masks on the market, knowing which will improve your beauty sleep the most can be challenging.
It's essential to consider what suits you since you’re more likely to wear and reap the full benefits of improved sleep quality if you choose a sleep mask you love! ❣️
From materials to fit, special features, and price, there's plenty to consider.
Let's dive in.
Sleep mask materials
When choosing a sleep mask, it's essential to consider both the filling and the cover material.
Cover materials
The cover of a sleep mask is the material which sits directly against your skin. 😶🌫️
Silk sleep masks are a top choice for their smooth feel, skin benefits, and temperature regulation.
These masks are an increasingly popular option to give as a gift for birthdays, Christmas, and more.
But keep in mind that they require special care, often needing hand washing or a delicate machine wash at a low temperature. 🧼
If you're after something more low-maintenance, you might prefer a cotton or polyester mix sleep mask.
Filling
The filling of sleep masks is equally important, with typical options including cotton and polyester.
However, you can also find more unique fillings like memory foam.
The Tempur Sleep Mask, for instance, has a foam filling that moulds around your eyes. 💤
While most find this supremely comfortable, for others, it's too heavy and restrictive.
Sleep mask comfort and fit
Comfort and fit are critical factors for choosing the best sleep mask.
Headbands keep your sleep mask on your head all night.
Most masks use velcro, elastic, or adjustable straps to allow you to modify the fit, ensuring the mask feels just right for your head size. 📏
Besides adjustability, your sleep position also greatly influences which type of mask will be comfy and suit you best!
For back sleepers, masks with additional padding or eye contours often feel best, sitting away from the eyes and effectively blocking light.
However, side sleepers and stomach sleepers may find these bulkier sleep masks uncomfortable, obstructive, and difficult to keep in place. 👎
If you sleep on your side or stomach, we'd recommend selecting a slimmer face mask like the Alaska Bear Sleep Mask.
Special sleep mask features
Sleep masks with special features can further improve your sleep experience.
While most masks aim to reduce light, some, like the Manta Blackout Sleep Mask, provide 100% light blockage thanks to their specific materials and design. 🌑
Weighted sleep masks enhance relaxation.
Similar to weighted blankets, they offer deep-pressure therapy [7] to alleviate stress and anxiety and help you sleep.
Those looking to relax or seeking relief from puffiness, sinus pain, or headaches should check out heated or cooling sleep masks. 🤯
Some masks, like the Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask, come with a removable insert weighed with silica beads that can be microwaved or frozen for the ultimate sleep and relaxation aid.
Alternatively, a sleep mask with headphones offers a dual solution of blocking out both light and sound.
Some studies have found that sleep masks and earplugs that help block light and sound can increase sleep quality [8].
Sleep masks that go over the ears, while not as effective at blocking sound as earplugs, can comfortably reduce sound for a more peaceful sleep.
Bluetooth sleep masks, some of the best sellers on Amazon, offer the added convenience of wireless connectivity. 🎧
Sleep mask prices
As important as other sleep mask features are, there's no denying that price is a critical factor.
You can find sleep masks to suit a variety of budgets.
The most affordable sleep masks cost around £10, while the most expensive ones can go over £50. 💷
Generally, you will pay more for higher quality masks, particularly those made of 100% silk or padded with memory foam filling.
Our favourite cheap sleep masks:
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![Alaska Bear sleep mask]()
![Alaska Bear sleep mask]()
Alaska Bear![Alaska Bear]()
Sleep MaskPrice from £ 8.49 £ (9.99 )The Alaska Bear Sleep Mask is one of the most popular eye masks on the market.The Alaska Bear Sleep Mask is one of the most popular eye masks on the market.Price from £ 8.49 (£ 9.99 ) -
![Sivio weighted sleep mask]()
![Sivio weighted sleep mask]()
Sivio![Sivio]()
Weighted Sleep MaskPrice from £ 16.99The Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask features a removable insert that can be heated or cooled.The Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask features a removable insert that can be heated or cooled.Price from £ 16.99
Common sleep mask concerns
While sleep masks are low-risk, there are some things you should be aware of before you try one. 🤔
Some associated sleep mask side effects include:
- Headaches: If the mask is too tight, you may experience head or ear pain.
- Skin irritation or acne: Prolonged contact with the mask, especially if not cleaned regularly, can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.
- Eyelash damage: People with long eyelashes or those who use masks that sit flush against the eyes may notice an increase in lashes breaking or falling out.
- Heat Retention: Some materials can retain heat, making them uncomfortable in warm conditions or for hot sleepers.
Most of these issues can be avoided by choosing a mask that suits your face and needs.
If you start having problems when using your sleep mask, consider taking a break or stop using the sleep eye mask completely. 🛑
How to wash a sleep mask
Maintaining sleep mask hygiene is crucial as it rests directly on your skin and close to your eyes. 👀
Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent acne and irritation.
Care instructions differ based on the mask and its materials, so it's essential to follow the specific guidelines provided with your mask.
For instance, silk masks typically require hand washing or to be machine washed on a delicate cycle at low temperatures.
The Tempur Sleep Mask, which contains foam, should not be soaked, meaning no hand or machine washing! ⛔
Instead, clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Other masks, like the Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask, can simply be popped into the washing machine once the removable insert is removed. 🫧
Whichever sleep eye mask you have, air-dry it flat to maintain its shape and improve longevity.
Should you buy a sleep mask?
Sleep masks effectively block light, stimulating the production of the sleep hormone melatonin.
They can positively impact your mental and physical well-being by enhancing your sleep quality. 😃
It's certainly worth trying an eye mask if you're sensitive to light.
Given their small size, convenience, and affordability, sleep masks are a low-risk option to experiment with ways to improve your sleep experience. ✨
Our favourite sleep masks in the UK:
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![Manta Sleep Mask (Original)]()
![Manta Sleep Mask (Original)]()
Manta Sleep![Manta Sleep]()
Original MaskPrice from £ 38 £ (39 )The original Manta Sleep Mask offers a 100% blackout experience with customisable comfort options.The original Manta Sleep Mask offers a 100% blackout experience with customisable comfort options.Price from £ 38 (£ 39 ) -
![Drowsy silk sleep mask]()
![Drowsy silk sleep mask]()
Drowsy![Drowsy]()
Silk Sleep MaskPrice from £ 69The Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask is silky-soft, comfortable, and kind to your skin and hair.The Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask is silky-soft, comfortable, and kind to your skin and hair.Price from £ 69 -
![Tempur sleep mask]()
![Tempur sleep mask]()
Tempur![Tempur]()
Sleep MaskPrice from £ 45The Tempur Sleep Mask moulds to the shape of your face.The Tempur Sleep Mask moulds to the shape of your face.Price from £ 45 -
![Alaska Bear sleep mask]()
![Alaska Bear sleep mask]()
Alaska Bear![Alaska Bear]()
Sleep MaskPrice from £ 8.49 £ (9.99 )The Alaska Bear Sleep Mask is one of the most popular eye masks on the market.The Alaska Bear Sleep Mask is one of the most popular eye masks on the market.Price from £ 8.49 (£ 9.99 ) -
![Sivio weighted sleep mask]()
![Sivio weighted sleep mask]()
Sivio![Sivio]()
Weighted Sleep MaskPrice from £ 16.99The Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask features a removable insert that can be heated or cooled.The Sivio Weighted Sleep Mask features a removable insert that can be heated or cooled.Price from £ 16.99
Frequently asked questions
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Is it good to sleep with a sleep mask?
Sleep masks offer a simple yet effective way to improve sleep by creating a dark environment that fosters melatonin production.
This leads to deeper, more restorative sleep, enhancing next-day alertness and memory function.
They are especially beneficial for light-sensitive sleepers and can be a key tool for better sleep hygiene.
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How do you wash a silk sleep mask?
Understanding how to wash a silk sleep mask is essential.
Sleep masks sit on your skin, so they should be cleaned regularly, but incorrect washing could permanently damage your eye mask.
When it comes to how to wash a Drowsy Sleep Mask or other silk eye mask, it’s simple.
You’ll need to either hand wash it or place it in a wash bag in the washing machine at a low temperature and on a delicate cycle.
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Where can you buy a sleep mask in the UK?
You can buy eye masks for sleep from various online and in-store retailers.
Amazon offers the widest range of choices.
If you’re looking for the most unique and best sleep mask UK, consider shopping from sleep specialists like Tempur, Panda London, or Manta Sleep Mask UK (which sells a variety of masks, including the Manta Sleep Mask Pro, original, silk, and weighted mask).
These tend to be more expensive but can be found for less when discounts are running.
Or, for an affordable regular price, you can check out Boots sleep masks, a sleep mask from Argos, or something like the Smug sleep masks from Superdrug.
If you’re willing to pay more and are interested in the anti-ageing benefits of silk sleep masks, you may want to try a classic silk sleep mask like the Drowsy Mulberry Silk Eye Mask or the Dr Harris Sleep Mask for something a little different.
These are good options for those looking to try their first eye mask sleep.
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Can you get a sleep mask for kids?
While not as commonly seen, you can buy kids sleep masks for little ones sensitive to light.
Amazon has many kids' sleep masks, which are smaller than regular eye masks and designed to suit small heads.
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Can you use weighted sleep masks overnight?
Some brands say their weighted sleep masks can be used overnight, but this isn’t recommended.
It’s best to use weighted products in shorter bursts to reduce risk and to give yourself time to get used to the sensation.
While sleep masks help improve people's sleep [9], others find them uncomfortably heavy.
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References
- 1 Sleep Mask Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Size to 2033
- 2 Melatonin: Physiological effects in humans - PubMed
- 3 https://www.embopress.org/doi/full/10.1038/embor.2008.197
- 4 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/s1087079221001416
- 5 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/s0303720715003378
- 6 Are Silk Pillowcases Really Better For Your Skin? | Wirecutter
- 7 https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/10115454
- 8 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmc7050172
- 9 https://www.reddit.com/r/science/comments/11df9ic/the_simple_act_of_wearing_an_eye_mask_to_block/
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