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I Slept My Entire Red-eye Flight Thanks to this Comfy Blackout Eye Mask

It’s changed the way I travel.

Travel + Leisure / Nordstrom

While I like to think of myself as a pretty decent travel napper , I can honestly only claim that title because I create the ideal environment for sleep — no matter where I am. That equation, naturally, includes a good pillow, cozy loungewear, and the blackout eye mask that has changed the way I travel. 

Though I’ve tried eye masks for travel before, nothing compares to the cloud-like, blackout design from Ostrichpillow that I tested for the first time on a recent red-eye flight to Paris. The brand, whose claim to fame is its equally beloved on-the-go pillows, created an ergonomic 3D style that actually adapts to your face and blocks out light for a more restful, deeper sleep. I’m not surprised it was chosen as Travel + Leisure ’s best light-blocking eye mask .

Ostrichpillow Ergonomic Eye Mask

Though my sleep typically feels disrupted on flights (if I can even fall asleep at all), I slept like a baby on my six-hour overnight trip. The material is a viscose, elastane, polyurethane, and nylon blend, and it’s so soft and cushioned that it feels like a pillow for your eyes. The weight of the mask is just light enough to feel comforting rather than constricting. Its breathable design also includes space around the eyes so you can comfortably open them while you’re still wearing it. The eye mask comes in four different colors, all of which are different shades of soothing gray, and the intentional construction makes it machine washable for easy maintenance. 

I’m not the only one hailing the Ostrichpillow mask as a holy grail, though. One shopper said that their husband “loves” the design that lets him “sleep like a baby” with the TV on all night. They shared that it also “doesn’t leave any lines on your face” and “stays put all night.” Another customer added that it helps them get “plenty of sleep,” while a third person said they like how “there’s room to open [their] eyes while still wearing it for a slower wake cycle.” 

The Ostrichpillow eye mask is one of my favorite products in my travel arsenal, but the brand’s memory foam travel pillow is a close second. It features a similar 360-degree ergonomic design for full neck support that maintains your proper spinal posture and prevents neck and back pain. For another travel option, shoppers also love the light reversible travel pillow that one person said lets you “comfortably” lean your head “on the airplane seat in front” of you or “up against the window.” 

Head over to Nordstrom to check out the game-changing eye mask , or keep browsing the other Ostrichpillow favorites that have transformed my in-flight sleep.

Ostrichpillow Heatbag 

Ostrichpillow light reversible travel pillow , ostrichpillow go memory foam travel pillow , shop more t+l-approved picks.

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The 11 Best Sleep Masks & Eye Masks for Travel [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

797 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3265 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Do i need a sleep mask, what to look for in a sleep mask, the 11 best sleep masks for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

A sleep mask is a perfect accessory for travelers who appreciate a little peace and quiet, wherever they may be.

Inexpensive, easy to carry with you, and useful in a wide range of different circumstances, an eye or sleep mask can help shut the world out while you catch some z’s. Not just for sleeping, this travel accessory can help reduce stress levels or even ease away a headache.

Eye masks don’t just help you to nod off to sleep — they also improve the quality of your sleep. Here are some great reasons to keep your eye mask with you at all times:

• Fall Asleep Quickly — Scientists believe that complete darkness boosts your body’s melatonin level, which helps you to doze off faster.
• Drop Off Anywhere — Long car rides, airplanes, trains, buses, and even in a city center hotel room — you can beat fatigue by falling asleep virtually anywhere.
• Beat the Jet Lag —  Combat jet lag by being able to sleep in any time zone. Your sleep mask can help you to sleep at the right times to beat the dreaded jet lag.

Bottom Line: When you’re on the move, being able to rest your mind and your body can make your journey more enjoyable and help you feel fresher when you get there. A sleep mask will help you greatly in this endeavor. 

Shape and Fit

Eye masks are designed to contour perfectly to your face. When you’re looking for the right eye mask for you, seek out ones with molded eye pockets to keep the fabric from sitting directly on your eyelids, which can be uncomfortable.

You should also ensure that the mask itself is wide and long enough to cover your eyes completely. If the light still creeps in on the side, it will hit your peripheral vision and make it harder to go to sleep.

Other design touches, like contoured shaping around the bridge of the nose and Velcro straps that allow you to wear the mask without messing up your hair, all make a difference to how much you fall in love with your newest travel accessory.

Fabric and Material

Your eye mask needs to be thick enough to keep the light out, yet soft and light enough to not put any pressure on your eyelids.

A mask that offers a bit of padding on the sides and around the edges will provide superior comfort. Because your eye mask is likely to be heavily used on your travels, it would also be advantageous to grab one in a material that can stand up to regular washing.

Bottom Line: Silk, cotton, polyester, and even satin are all popular choices for sleep masks, but be sure to check the quality of the seams and washing instructions before you buy.

If a simple sleep mask doesn’t satisfy your needs, try something a little bit extra. Sleep masks can be found with plenty of additional features to help you sleep soundly, wherever you may be. Some come complete with matching earplugs, for complete sensory deprivation, while others offer collagen eye patches to help you awaken looking refreshed and free from puffy eyes and wrinkles.

Consider buying a travel neck pillow to complete your sleep-well-anywhere package.

Hot Tip: If you’re looking to wear your mask for stress or pain relief, you can purchase masks with integrated lavender to keep you calm or cooling patches to help relieve aching heads. You can also find them in designer fabrics, with matching carry cases or even sleepwear, if the look is what you’re all about.

1. Designed To Gently Keep Your Eyelids Shut

• Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

Made from top-quality, 19-millimeter, natural mulberry silk on one side and soft cotton on the other, this little beauty will see you off to the land of nod in no time at all. Cool and breathable, the silky smooth fabric blacks out the light while gently pressing your eyelids close to avoid dry eyes in the morning.

The contoured nose cut-out is comfortable on your face, while still blocking out light to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

Combined with an adjustable head strap that’s designed for comfort no matter the sleeping position, this is an affordable and effective little eye mask.

What We Like

• Comes in a variety of colors and designs

What We Don’t Like

• The strap slips around a bit

2. Shut Out the Sights and Sounds of Travel

• Sleep Master Sleep Mask

Designed by someone who suffered from their own case of insomnia, the Sleep Master eliminates both light and sound to help you get some sleep on the move. Made from lightweight, washable satin fabric, this mask is extra wide to block out the light, while the ear area is also padded to help muffle unwanted noise .

If you want total silence, insert the ear muffs provided with the mask, and let the wrap-around design keep them firmly in place while you sleep. Incredibly soft and comfortable, this mask can be adjusted to fit you perfectly using the Velcro tabs, and the durable material can stand up to regular washing.

This is a neat idea for those who want relief from both the sights and sounds of traveling.

• Blocks light and muffles sound
• The Velcro strap is quite thick to lie on

3. The Perfect Eye Mask for Side Sleepers

• LitBear Sleep Eye Mask

Made from 6-layer low rebound soft memory foam and soft silk lining, this smart little mask is both breathable and lightweight. The contoured eye sockets allow you to blink freely in between naps and will ensure any make-up stays smudge-free.

Block out the dark completely with the broad design of this mask, which also fits most nose shapes with the hollow nose bridge. The adjustable strap has been designed with comfort in mind and is made to fit head circumferences of 20.5 to 26.5 inches. Well-designed and well-built, this is a great eye mask for those who want to sleep on the go.

• It stays securely in place and is comfortable sleeping on your side
• The headband stretches out over time

4. Give the Blue Light Theory a Go

• Sound Oasis Deluxe Glo to Sleep Natural Sleep Eye Mask

These quirky glasses promise to deliver a unique way to help ease your stress and help you sleep. The Glo to Sleep ideology works on the basis that you just have to raise your eyes and gaze on a focal point of blue lights to instantly achieve a deeply relaxed state that leads to sleep.

By slowing the frequency of the brain’s electrical activity, you can obtain a similar result to those achieved by meditation or hypnosis. An interesting concept, indeed!

With 3 auto-dim options, you can ramp down in 10, 20, or 30 minutes. As your body relaxes, you’ll gently fall into a deep, refreshing sleep, wherever you are. While the jury may still be out on the effectiveness of the blue light theory, this is a high-quality, easy-to-wear sleep mask that seems to make a difference.

• Great for getting to sleep or just relaxing
• Material is quite stiff

5. Eyelash Protecting Option for Those Who Like to Sleep in the Dark

Bucky 40 blinks comfortable, contoured, no pressure eye mask.

The 40 Blinks eye mask offers the perfect solution for anyone wanting to block out light while they travel. This ultra-lightweight, contoured eye mask is big enough to cover your eyes and peripheral vision. The lightweight design  allows you to blink freely into the contoured eye holes.

Made from latex-free molded foam, it won’t smudge your make-up or put unwanted pressure on your head while you sleep. An adjustable Velcro strap that connects in the back will keep the mask in place while you nap and the 100% polyurethane foam fabric can be washed in cold water to keep it clean and fresh for every journey.

• No eye pressure with molded eye pockets
• Fabric layers can come apart after washing

6. State of the Art Technology To Help You Snooze

Heated usb eye mask.

This sleep mask uses cutting-edge technology to help you nod off. Using a thermally-conductive material, the mask heats up quickly and can promote blood circulation to help with dry eyes and fatigue . It can also provide beauty and skincare therapy to smooth your wrinkles and eliminate dark circles while you sleep.

If you’re worried about having the heat so close to your eyes, the safe design comes with 2 heat modes and a contoured design that allows the mask to adapt to the shape of your face. The mask can be powered using any USB port and has an automatic shut-off. A unique solution to a timeless problem, this mask will help you sleep using infrared technology that’s similar to the wavelength of the body.

• The eye cover is removable and washable
• Battery only lasts 1 to 2 uses

7. Natural and Lightweight Cotton Sleep Mask

• 100% Handmade Cotton Sleep Mask Blackout

Made from high-quality, all-natural cotton, this super-wide sleep mask feels soft on your skin while keeping out unwanted light and sound to help you sleep. The “nose wing” design helps to effectively block light even from the nose area , meaning you can drift off in complete darkness.

It is so lightweight, you’ll barely notice it on your skin. It can be washed and rinsed on the go and can be folded to fit into its very own travel bag. This sleep mask can be adjusted in length to perfectly fit the size of your head without tangling your hair or feeling tight, and the natural material is breathable and won’t cause you to sweat.

• Lightweight and soft
• The Velcro strap can loosen over time

8. Affordable and Effective Silk Solution

Jersey slumber 100% silk sleep mask.

The Jersey Slumber 100% Silk Sleep Mask is an affordable and effective mask suitable for anyone who struggles to sleep with the light on. The ergonomic design nicely contours the shape of your face and eyelids, allowing you to get a great night’s sleep, wherever you may be.

Made of lightweight silk material, this eye mask is cool, comfortable, and easy to clean. The breathable, natural fibers of hypoallergenic silk are also soothing to the skin , making it a great solution for insomnia, migraine headaches, and even dry-eye conditions.

Block out the light, ease insomnia, and arrive feeling well-rested and refreshed every time you travel with this little beauty.

• No Velcro strap that can snag your hair
• Might be too large for those with smaller heads

9. Sleep Mask, Earplugs, and Carry Case — All in One Set

Sleep mask by bedtime bliss.

Designed to block out the light to help you fall asleep quickly and wake up refreshed, this is a super-effective mask that’s affordable and extremely portable . What’s more, this super-smart sleep set also comes with its very own set of Moldex earplugs to keep unwanted noise at bay while you snooze.

The contoured design allows for complete eye movement even underneath your mask, meaning your makeup won’t smudge and you won’t feel restricted, while the adjustable straps will fit all head sizes. As a well-designed set comprising earplugs, a sleep mask, and a carry bag, this is money well spent for those who like to switch off while traveling.

• Comes with a handy carry pouch and earplugs
• Can fall off with lots of movement when sleeping

10. Memory Foam Eye Mask for a Total Blackout

Mzoo contoured 3d eye mask eye.

Made from high-grade memory foam, this eye mask molds perfectly to your head, making it super easy to nod off wherever you may be. Offering total darkness, the innovative nose design with invisible foam helps to ensure that no cheeky bits of light sneak in and stop you from snoozing.

With a wider eye space and deeper design than many other masks on the market , there’s no pressure on your eyelids or uncomfortable feeling on your nose. The easy-to-adjust headband avoids the tight feeling associated with traditional straps and the anti-fade, anti-bacterial, anti-mite material is durable and easy to clean.

• No Velcro adjustable strap
• Can make your face a bit warm

11. Sleep Masks for 2

Prettycare 3d sleep mask – 2 pack.

With one for you and one for your other half, too, this is a great way to ensure that you both get a good night’s sleep while you travel. Made from opaque, high-density memory foam, these masks are super lightweight, incredibly thin, and designed to perfectly block out all of the unwanted light around you while you snooze.

With larger-than-usual eye cavities and a raised and thickened nasal bridge, these masks are designed with comfort in mind. The eye mask is also designed to fit any size head, and the new loop closure design prevents hair tugging and discomfort . With anti-fade, anti-bacterial, and anti-mite properties, these eye masks offer a practical solution that will last you the duration of your trip.

• Lightweight and slim material
• Can let in some light when lying on the strap

An eye mask can help you nod off to sleep anywhere in the world. The darker it is, the better you sleep, and these beauties can have you nodding off in no time.

Eye travel masks are affordable, lightweight, and extremely compact necessities that should be standard in everyone’s carry-on luggage .

Sleep tight!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do eye masks really work.

Eye masks are an affordable and simple solution to getting better sleep in situations where you can’t control light, such as on airplanes. Combine an eye mask with earplugs , and they really do help with sleeping in various situations.

Is it better to sleep with an eye mask?

Eye masks don’t just help you to nod off to sleep, they also improve the quality of your sleep. Scientists believe that complete darkness boosts your body’s melatonin level, which helps you to doze off faster.

What are the best eye masks for sleeping?

These are the best sleep masks that we recommend:

What to look for in a sleep mask?

Eye masks are designed to contour perfectly to your face. When you’re looking for the right eye mask, seek out ones with molded eye pockets to keep the fabric from sitting directly on your eyelids, which can be uncomfortable.

Are sleeping masks worth it?

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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5 Dreamy Blackout Sleep Masks for Travel in 2024

Last Updated on June 1, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa

Welp,  just bought my second blackout sleep mask and if you haven’t tried one, it is high time you did! It is a gamechanger in improving your quality of sleep at home or on the road.  This post is about the top blackout sleep masks for travel.

In this blog series, we’ll be diving deep into the world of sleep masks, comparing the top 6 contenders on the market. We’ll be putting them to the test for comfort, light-blocking ability, breathability, and portability – all crucial factors for a restful night’s sleep on the road.

But before we diving into the nitty-gritty of sleep masks, let’s explore the benefits of quality sleep when you’re on the road or at home:

This post contains affiliate links.  I never leave home without travel insurance- I use  World Nomads  but here’s a  trip insurance finder tool   to find a plan that matches your budget. Read more about  coverage options for U.S. travelers.

Table of Contents: 5 Dreamy Blackout Sleep Masks for Travel in 2024

• 0.1 The Importance of Quality Sleep for Travel
• 0.2 The benefits of quality sleep when traveling :
• 0.3 What to look for in an effective sleep mask for travel?
• 1.0.1 Premium sleep masks
• 1.0.2 1. Manta Sleep Mask
• 1.0.3 2. Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask
• 1.0.4 3. MZOO Sleep Eye Mask
• 1.1.1 4. SmartRest Sleep Mask
• 1.1.2 5. LKY DIGITAL Sleep Mask ( 3 Pack )

The Importance of Quality Sleep for Travel

When traveling and crossing time zones, your body’s Cicadian rhythm gets wacky and this can cause tiredness and fogginess as your body grasps to regain its day-sleep cues. When I was young, I didn’t think much about sleep as a great importance. I was able to rebound after intense physical activity. Crossing 50 changed that, because my energy level changed. Being a female solo travel vlogger and freelancing in television/film/event crew, I have to be able to recover after a long day of physical activity, so I can wake up and do it all again the next day. Whether I am on my feet catching public transportation for sightseeing or running around lugging my camera equipment , this activity is intense wear and tear on my body. My body can really feel it on some days.

Secondly,  if you’re battling physical ailments, like plantar fasciitis , lower back and neck problems or menapause fatigue like me, then this can surely upset the quality of your solo trip .

The benefits of quality sleep when traveling :

The following are some ideas mentioned by the Sleep Foundation .

• Physical Health: The number one reason for improving your quality of sleep is that it strengthens your body’s ability to fight illness and repair itself. After a long day of exploring on your feet, your body needs to recover and repair; a solid 8 hours of sleep allows that to happen.
• Mental Health & Agility: Sleep also impacts mood, regulates emotions, and improves cognitive function. I won’t go into how being a full-time content creator , woman in her 50s or woman on her period is prone to mood swings, but they can feel like a b***h!  When I don’t have sleep, I am raw, haggard, snapping at people and hanging on a hair. Not to mention, my skin looks shot and dull.
• Recover from Jetlag : Blackout masks help you get better sleep on planes, during long layovers at airports and when you’re crossing time zones. In short, it helps reset your body clock. Check out my in-flight essentials for long flights
• Memory: During sleep, your brain consolidates memories and information learned throughout the day.
• Energy Levels and Alertness: Quality sleep keeps you feeling energized, focused and alert throughout the day. As a solo traveler, you want to be street smart safe , alert to your surroundings and you cannot do that in a mental fog.
• Weight Management: Sleep helps regulate hormones that control appetite and metabolism.
• Safety and Alertness: Poor sleep quality can impair your judgment and reaction time, increasing risk of accidents and injury. Renting a motorbike in Bali , taking a scuba certification in Thailand , avoid pickpocketing … you can make wiser decisions because you’ll have better mental judgement. Incidentally, travel insurance is always a safety net you want to back yourself up when those accidents happen. Tip: Check out this free trip insurance finder tool and my top anti-theft bags for travel
• Enhanced Comfort: A well-designed sleep mask can minimize distractions and create a sense of calm, perfect for drifting off to dreamland on a noisy airplane or unfamiliar hotel room.
• Boosted Energy Levels: Catching a good night of sleep translates to waking up feeling refreshed and energized, ready to tackle your travel itinerary.

What to look for in an effective sleep mask for travel?

Blackout Effectiveness: Blocking out light helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. There are masks which act like a light blanket over the eyes, offering very little blackout, so when the sun is out, you’ll still notice it. But when you get to good masks, the blackout between something that’s 80% vs 99% is huge.

Head strap fit: A firm elastic head strap that holds the mask in place as you toss around. For side sleepers, having a strap that does not have a clasp on the side is ideal.

Comfortable eye protection: Flat masks lay Masks with a recessed eye cups are the best because they do not put pressure on the eyelids.

Portability: Most sleep masks are lightweight and compact, making them a no-brainer in-flight tool in your travel carry on or tote.

Comfortable fabric : Sleep masks are made of natural fibers, but there’s a difference between silk, felt or something synthetic with foam cups.

Washable: Machine washable or by hand

Overall comfort and ergonomic design: Eye and nose comfort, snug elastic band to keep your mask secure if you wrestle in your sleep. Some folks like to sleep on their stomach or side.

5 Top Blackout Sleep Masks for Travel

Premium sleep masks, 1. manta sleep mask.

Manta Sleep Mask was my first love that turned me onto sleep masks because it executed what a sleep mask is meant to do..  block out light and allow you a sound sleep. Fabric is natural fibers and moisture wicking which makes it snug and comfy, and it has removable eye cups that you can replace. Open nose area, the mask just its over the eye cups. Strap is adjustable and fits snug without moving.

  It’s good but if I had a hairy cat, I’d wonder if it would pick up hairs.   It makes a line of blackout masks from cooling sleep masks to reduce puffy eyes and sinus relief  to steam masks for dry eye relief.

I still prefer the original sleep mask; it is perfect for travel and comes with a storage bag for portability and washing. Con: Price-wise, it’s a bit high for a sleep mask. But it is worth it. I bought this for my sister! Get it on Amazon

2. Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask is a premium sleep mask with high ratings on Amazon. It has 3D eye cups that is comfortable for those with lash extensions and a easy-fit nose piece. The Nidra mask has mixed opinions on strap and stability but it comes in different colors.  Rated the best sleep mask on The NY Times.

Con: It kinda looks like a bra cup on your eyes, so while a lot of travelers love its performance, i’m not sure if I would personally wear it on the plane in public.  But that’s me- he he… Get it on Amazon

3. MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

The MZOO Sleep Eye Mask is another great sleep mask with very high ratings on Amazon. It’s been sold on Amazon since 2019 for its 3D blackout sleep masks.  It is held together by a heat bonding technology vs stitches that can fall apart and touts 100% blackout. It has rebounding memory foam eye cups with a cutout nose piece and it comes with a travel pouch.  Con: Hand wash only. Still a bit pricey and looks like the budget models. Get it on Amazon

Best Value Sleep Masks for Travel:

4. smartrest sleep mask.

SmartRest Sleep Mask is one of my picks for best value blackout sleep mask for travel. It really surprised me. I actually bought it because my dad wears those free airlines sleep masks a lot and sleeps during the day. I wanted an inexpensive mask because getting him an expensive mask could go to waste if he decides he doesn’t like it. This one came with two sleep masks. Rebounding memory foam. Cut-out nose piece. When I tried it, it really surprised me.

At first, I wasn’t sure I’d like the Smart Rest mask because the fabric is more on the silky smooth side and the Manta was more on the fiberous side that felt homey and warm. The blackout is 100%. I forgot to put my alarm on and if my body didn’t have a natural alarm to get up at 7a-9a, I wouldn’t have known the difference behind my eyes, because under my mask it felt like night time. It was surreal to think the blackout effectiveness fooled my mind so completely. My eyes literally did not want to wake up. My sleep felt slightly deeper with this mask

 After two weeks, I noticed a tiny gap where light peers in by my nose, making it 98% blackout. I’ve pressed it but tying my head strap tighter pressed it back into place. The verdict is still out but I’ll just say- if I lost this while traveling, I’d be out $5 but so far I’ve squeezed out four good weeks of sleep from it.  Great value: 2 for the cost of $10. Con: my sleep felt so good, I did not want to wake up. Get it on Amazon

5. LKY DIGITAL Sleep Mask ( 3 Pack )

If you said Hello to the SmartRest mask, then you might like this one even more, because it comes in a pack of three so it’s definitely the highest value mask out there at the moment. You can pass it out to family members and friends.

Since 2013, the LKY Digital Sleep mask   is one of the highest bought and rated on Amazon. I have not tried it. They look like bra cups to me. This 3D ergonomic eye mask is high rated for its blackout performance and comfort, with foam cups and cotton fiber. It works great for all sleep positions and it has ergonomic fitting on the nose and 3D eye cups to keep your makeup from smudging.

Colors come in black, blue and purple, so there’s a variety.  Con: Hand wash only. Get it on Amazon

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Blackout Memory Foam Sleep Mask

Get a great night’s sleep with our advanced sleeping mask.

• Designed to provide a full blackout experience for uninterrupted rest, ideal for travelling, frequent flyers, night-shift workers or those sensitive to the light.
• Sleep mask features 3D contoured eyecups for minimal pressure and irritation-free wear, perfect for keeping lash extensions intact!
• Super soft, breathable material to allow constant air flow to the eyes, preventing dryness or distraction from your restorative rest.
• Made using high-quality memory foam for use whenever you need it with a design that fits to the nose and face to block out light.

Every MyHalos eye mask comes with a sealable antibacterial storage pouch for easy portability, ideal for protecting your go-to relief remedy while out and about.

EAN: 5070000217239

• Free standard delivery on orders over £40UK Standard Shipping: Our standard shipping takes 3 business days and starts from £3.35.
• UK Next Day / Express Shipping: Express shipping takes 1-2 business days and starts from £3.69.
• Returns InformationIf you are not happy with your item, you can return it within 30 days of receiving it.

13 Best Sleep Masks To Help Block Out The World

If you need to travel or don't have curtains to create the blackout effect in your bedroom, these sleep masks will give you comfortable and complete darkness for better sleep.

Health & Fitness Commerce Writer

We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Just so you know, BuzzFeed may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.

Every night, as I reach that blissful moment when I strap on my sleep mask and shut out the world, it feels like a true “Hello darkness my old friend” moment. (Although maybe not with the angst Simon & Garfunkel intended but in a literal sense.)

It’s the number one thing that transitions me from wakefulness to sleep mode, and I am nothing if not someone who loves to sleep.

It’s so essential to my sleep routine that I often wonder how anyone sleeps without an eye mask, until I remember that I didn’t own one until about four years ago. I also had someone once tell me that when they used a sleep mask they would wake up with panic attacks, so clearly they’re not right for everyone.

However, since the moment I got one, an eye mask has been a constant presence on my bedside table and in my travel bag . That said, I definitely cycled through many different types of sleep masks until I found the ones that work best for me.

Why wear an eye mask for sleep?

According to Rebecca Robbins, an associate scientist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and instructor at Harvard Medical School, darkness is an important component of good sleep hygiene.

“Our eyelids are the thinnest pieces of skin on our body,” Robbins said. “Believe it or not, even a small light coming from a cable box can be enough to get into the eyelid and actually disrupt our sleep.”

If you’re sleeping in an environment where you’re not able to have that fully dark space and you’re experiencing sleep difficulties, she recommends trying an eye mask at the very least to rule out light as the issue.

A 2021 report from the Journal of Advanced Nursing evaluated the sleep quality of people in the ICU, an environment of beeping machines and annoying lights that can prevent much-needed rest. The researchers included nearly 800 patients from 13 different studies and found eye masks improved sleep quality . Earplugs plus eye masks were even better.

A 2010 study of 14 ICU patients published in the journal Critical Care found that the use of earplugs and eye masks resulted in more REM (rapid eye movement, which signals a deeper sleep stage) time, shorter REM latency (the time it takes to reach the first REM sleep stage), less arousal, and elevated melatonin levels.

While you may not be spending much time in the ICU (hopefully), there are many situations in which complete darkness is not easy to achieve. Maybe you’re a renter and you don’t want to invest in blackout curtains, or your specific bedroom windows don’t allow for full shade coverage.

Robbins specifically mentioned how useful eye masks can be for travel, considering the fact that most travel methods and hotels (even the nice ones) don’t focus on creating quiet and dark sleeping conditions.

How to choose a sleep mask

When it comes to sleep, comfort is key, as Robbins emphasized for all areas of sleep hygiene. Ideally, you would be in a quiet, dark, and cool room and feel as cozy as possible. Since being cozy looks different for everyone, it’s important to consider how you get your best sleep when choosing an eye mask.

If you sleep on your back and have trouble turning off your brain before bed, you could be a good candidate for a weighted eye mask, which is a heavier mask that’s like a weighted blanket for your face.

If you’re a side sleeper, however, a weighted eye mask may slip off your face and probably isn’t the best choice. If you appreciate silence at bedtime but don’t love earplugs, you can try a mask that also claims to be noise reducing, because that’s a thing.

Regardless of your preferred conditions, Robbins suggests testing out products whenever possible and mimicking your sleep position when you do so. For example, those who spend the most time sleeping on their stomach should try out an eye mask while lying on their stomach to make sure that it’s comfortable and stays put.

You may not always be able to try before you buy, so check the return policy to see if it’s possible to send one back or exchange it. All of the eye masks we recommend come with high praise and may do the trick if you buy the one that’s right for your sleep style.

Manta Sleep Mask

After experimenting with many a mask, this is the one I eventually landed on and use to this day. It’s not perfect, but it’s comfortable and blocks out every speck of light to create my ideal sleep environment (a cold, dark cave). The soft, deep eye cups don’t put any pressure on your lids and they individually Velcro onto the strap, meaning that not only are they adjustable to your exact eye position, but you can also swap them out with other Manta sleep cups. This past summer, I got the cooling eye cups filled with ceramic beads and kept them in my freezer to pop on before bed for a lovely, slightly weighted, perfectly dark, and cool sleep. I also convinced myself that the cooling effect helped my eye puffiness, but I have no proof of that.

Promising review: “Recommended by other emergency room doctors, this sleep mask is wonderful for those of us who do shift work. It is so comfortable and completely customizable. It blocks out ALL light. My only regret is not buying this sooner.” — Frogs

What else to consider: Some reviewers noted that this mask did in fact let light in for them, especially when they shifted to their side. Based on my experience, that’s likely because it wasn’t secured tightly enough. You definitely have to strap it on as snug as possible in order for it to stay put throughout tossing and turning in the night, and since it can only get so tight, it may not be best if you have a smaller head.

Best for: anyone who wants a soft and cozy mask with maximum blackout and zero pressure on the eyes.

You can buy the Manta Sleep Mask from Amazon for around $35.

Asutra Silk Eye Pillow

This was actually the first eye mask I ever bought, inspired by my interest in trying a weighted eye mask to help relieve anxiety, since that tends to be my greatest barrier to sleep. It’s made from 100% silk and filled with pouches of lavender and flaxseeds for added weight with a soothing scent. The elastic band is adjustable, so you can make it as large or small as you need depending on your head size and preferred tightness. You can also adjust the scent and weight to your liking. I still keep this one in my opposite bedside table for guests.

Promising review: “This is such a lovely product. You could give it as a gift. It really blocks out the light. The strap keeps it on even if your face is tilted so you can lay more comfortably, and the strap is small, light, and adjustable and does not cause me discomfort. Also, the mask is customizable. The manufacturer sends extra flaxseed and lavender so you can add more if you wish to increase the weight and/or scent. It's absolutely lovely.” — Elle W.

What else to consider: The main reason I moved on from this mask was purely due to the fact that I’m primarily a stomach/side sleeper and the weight caused it to slide off my face in those positions, which isn’t ideal if you want complete darkness at all times. Something else to note that wasn’t necessarily a deterrent for me is that the silk changed color, likely from my skincare products or natural face oils. (I wash my face before bed religiously so no, it’s not dirty.) This discoloration persisted despite repeated runs through the washing machine, but you can probably avoid that if you get a darker color.

Best for: back sleepers who may benefit from some light pressure and aromatherapy at bedtime, or yogis who want a little extra relaxation during savasana.

You can buy the Asutra Silk Eye Pillow from Amazon for around $22.

Nidra Contoured Sleep Mask

If you’re in the market for a classic, lightweight, comfortable, and contoured sleep mask, Nidra is the GOAT. It’s affordable yet quality you can trust, and the design makes it perfect to throw into any travel bag and use on the go. The deeply molded cups curve away from the eyes to avoid compressing your eyes or eyelashes but still promise to block out all light and visual stimuli that could prevent you from falling asleep.

Promising review: “This is the go-to sleep mask in our household. We've tried a number of other ones, but inevitably come back to this “Nidra” one. We have gone through quite a few of them over the last 5-6 years, so have a good idea of lifetime and what to expect from this product (see attached images). Overall, fantastic product, has been life changing. Great for achieving a true blackout sleep experience.” — coffeefiend

What else to consider: The adjustable strap is a bit of a tense elastic with a Velcro closure, which always presents the possibility of tightness and hair snags or dents. Some reviewers also noted that it did not hold up well after months of regular use.

Best for: an occasional-use mask that’s particularly lightweight, effective and ideal for travel.

You can buy the Nidra Contoured Sleep Mask from Amazon for around $18.

Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask

Lunya kills the game when it comes to fashionable sleep accessories. They’re known specifically for their washable silk pajamas, which is the same material used for this soft sleep mask. The silk is supposed to be naturally moisturizing and help reduce the appearance of fatigue and dark circles, while the wide elasticized band prevents hair creases and reduces noise (since it can cover your ears). It’s quite lightweight, but they also make a weighted version if you’d prefer some pressure, though that one is hand wash only and almost twice the price.

Promising review: “The best sleep mask I’ve had and I have tried a few! It’s full coverage means that it seems dark even when it’s not, it stays on all night, it is comfortable and the silk is so soft. I already had this mask and bought a second one so that I wouldn't have to go a night without it while it was drying after being washed! Love it.” —Kim L., via Lunya

What else to consider: This mask definitely comes at a higher price point, which is important to note depending on how much you want to invest in this kind of product. It’s also not as adjustable as some other masks, so if your head is particularly big or small, there’s a chance it won’t fit securely.

Best for: beauty sleep (literally) with a noise-reducing component.

You can buy the Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask from Lunya for around $48.

Dream Sleeper Hypoallergenic Sleep Mask

OK, so I also own this sleep mask. I understand that I have a problem, but they all serve a different purpose. The Dream Sleeper came highly recommended from my sister-in-law, who didn’t love her Manta because it slid down her face too much throughout the night. I still like my Manta better since I’ve come to prefer the contour, but since this one is lighter, more portable, and still quite comfy, it’s become my travel mask. It’s made from a washable and breathable silky satin that feels nice on my face, with extra wide straps to provide some noise reduction as well (and minimize hair denting).

Promising review: “I LOVE this mask! I confess, it’s a bit too much coverage for peak summer heat, but comfort and coverage is still PERFECT! The amount of coverage creating a warming effect is exactly what I need for the colder months of autumn, winter, and early spring. I’m very pleased with this purchase. BTW, the fabric is super soft against my skin, and the entire mask is incredibly easy to just wrap around my head and get it to stay.” — P. Lyn Matshall

What else to consider: Though his mask claims to fit all heads, the closure is not very elastic so it’s best for medium or average head sizes, similar to the Lunya option above. I only use it occasionally so I can’t speak to any wear and tear from nightly use, but I have noticed some subtle discoloration in the interior silk. Reviewers also mentioned that the wide face-hugging made them overheat.

Best for: a less expensive (though not exactly cheap) dupe for the Lunya washable silk sleep mask that still gets the job done.

You can buy the Dream Sleeper Hypoallergenic Sleep Mask from Amazon for around $23.

Nodpod Weighted Eye Mask

Another weighted eye mask that has intrigued me for a while is this uniquely shaped option by Nodpod. It features four equally weighted pods that contour to your face to help soothe migraines, relieve stress or ease you into sleep. I’m particularly drawn to the jersey fabric that lines the interior, which I know to be one of the softest fabrics on the planet, and the microfiber fleece exterior doesn’t hurt either. The highlight of this mask is the gentle, evenly distributed pressure, but that’s partially possible due to the fact that it rests on your face rather than straps on tightly with an elastic closure. There is, however, a small buttonhole to pull it through behind your head.

Promising review: “Everything about this eye mask is perfect! Not too heavy but definitely meditative, doesn’t use elastic which I always struggled to sleep with, washable (read the instructions though)… seriously such a good buy. Got one for my mom, too - she loves it! Highly recommend!!” —ilanab, via Nodpod

What else to consider: The nature of the closure means that this eye mask is not going to have a snug fit and will likely shift through the night unless you sleep like a mummy.

Best for: strictly back sleepers, or those interested more in pre-sleep meditation or occasional stress relief.

You can buy the Nodpod Weighted Eye Mask from Anthropologie for around $34.

Bewell Eye Mask

Given the significantly lower price, you’d never guess that this was such a good-quality eye mask, but reviewers are mostly in agreement that it’s pretty great. It promises total darkness without that contoured design thanks to the soft ridge at the bottom intended to block out any leaking light. The adjustable elastic band has a click-in closure, as opposed to Velcro, to avoid any snagging, and the plush, lightweight fabric is cozy yet breathable.

Promising review: “I love this eye mask! It does not let light through even if it is the middle of the day or all the lights on in the room. I can finally sleep or nap whenever and not be bothered by others who are not sleeping while I am. It has a Velcro strap in the back and my hair has never gotten caught in it. Very soft and comfortable to sleep in! I sleep only on my side and have no issues with it falling off or light seeping in.” — nmcf

What else to consider: A couple reviewers said that the elastic wears over time, so keep in mind that it could become too loose to stay secure at some point. However, it’s so affordable that I don’t think long-term wear and tear should be a deterrent. If you love it, just buy another when its time is up.

Best for: those seeking a lightweight, plush and affordable sleep mask that actually blocks out light.

You can buy the Bewell Eye Mask from Amazon for around $8.

Casper Snoozewear Sleep Mask

Another company that dominates the sleep space, Casper now offers an eye mask to help you sleep even more comfortably while submerged in their mattresses, pillows, and sheets. It has that same thick-banded design that’s supposed to help block out both light and some noise while keeping your hair crease-free. It’s made with soft, stretchy, and breathable fabric to help you stay cozy and cool. The front is more cushioned but there’s no added weight, so it shouldn’t put much pressure on your eyes. It is one of their newest products, so there aren’t any reviews yet, but knowing the Casper quality it should be safe to test out. You can also probably try one on at any Casper showroom.

What else to consider: This is a one-size-fits-all sleep mask with no adjustable closure, so the stretch is your only shot at a proper fit. That means it could be a bit tight on some heads and too loose on others.

Best for: someone looking to make more of a serious, soft cotton investment in their sleep with a multifunctional eye mask.

You can buy the Casper Snoozewear Sleep Mask from Casper for around $49.

Slip Silk Sleep Mask

Slip has a fairly particular niche — they only make silk products that somehow touch your head (face and/or hair). The company’s whole philosophy is based on the fact that cotton absorbs moisture and can dry out the skin, so it says silk is really the most gentle and delicate way to go. The pull-on sleep masks look pretty classic, with a stretchy elastic band and basic eye covering. The company says the mask reduces friction against skin to avoid creasing in the delicate area around your eyes. They also come in tons of cute colors and patterns if you’re looking to make an aesthetic statement with your eye mask.

Promising review: “After hesitantly spending $50 on this, I am happy to say that it is definitely worth the money! It comes beautifully packaged (great if you’re gifting) and it is very high quality material and construction. It is super comfortable to wear while sleeping and it doesn’t shift around or fall off at night - as a bit of a restless sleeper that is a big plus. I love the way it feels on, it almost has a slight cooling effect on your eyes. After trying this I am much more sold on the whole silk-pillowcase thing and I will be trying that next.” — Rachel I.

What else to consider: Again, this one isn’t adjustable, so you’re banking on the fact that the elastic will keep it just the right amount of snug on your head. It’s also possible that the thinner band could create a bit of a crease in hair if it’s too tight.

Best for: those who appreciate aesthetics in any product and want a silky smooth sleep mask that won’t absorb their expensive face creams.

You can buy the Slip Silk Sleep Mask from Amazon for around $50.

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask

If you’re looking for something with tons of reviews, the vast majority of which are quite positive, this is the eye mask for you. Made from layers of soft cotton, non-woven fabrics, and elastic sponge to be as cozy as possible while still breathable, the triangle wing design promises to stay put while you sleep and keep your eyes feeling free and comfortable. However, it still claims to block out all light with an adjustable cartilage nose piece that bends to your face. The elastic band is adjustable as well, so it should fit any head size.

Promising review: “This eye mask is fantastic! I love that it’s cotton, so it's very comfortable and breathable. The back strap adjusts to fit your head so it stays put when you roll around at night, and there’s a soft wire in the nose piece so that the mask can adjust to the shape of your nose to provide maximum blackout coverage. You can’t beat the price for this eye mask - great quality and super comfy.” — Paula

What else to consider: Of course, not all reviewers were satisfied. Some mentioned that the nose piece still let in a sliver of light or that they had to readjust it throughout the night, but different faces and sleep patterns may require different features. Most still found it to be effective and for under $10, it’s worth a shot.

Best for: anyone in the market for a fairly universal and affordable first sleep mask to test out.

You can buy the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask from Amazon for around $8.

Parachute Silk Eye Mask

If you hadn’t already guessed, silk is a very popular material for sleep products, and for good reason. It’s soft, lightweight, helps maintain a neutral temperature, feels luxurious, and is good for your skin, so you can’t really go wrong with silk eye masks that actually block out light. This option from Parachute, which makes just about everything you could need for a good night’s sleep, looks just like the Asutra mask but without the weight. It’s naturally hypoallergenic with an adjustable elastic band and comes with a matching silk pouch to use when you travel.

Promising review: “Love the adjustability and the fabric. Not too hot, sits cool on the face and the dark sexy color blocks out the light well. This is the best mask I have found.” —Anna G., via Parachute

What else to consider: You can machine wash this silk sleep mask, though the company recommends putting it in a mesh intimates bag if you choose to do so. Otherwise, Parachute advises handwashing. There also aren’t tons of reviews, but since Parachute has physical retail stores, you may be able to find it in person and test it out before buying.

Best for: a basic, no-frills yet still luxurious sleep mask experience.

You can buy the Parachute Silk Eye Mask from Parachute for around $16.

Ostrichpillow Eye Mask

Ostrichpillow says that their eye mask is the first designed with 3D ergonomics, meaning that it adapts to the features of your face for the perfect fit. If you’re familiar with sleep masks, you know how important it is to find the right fit, both for comfort and to ensure complete darkness. This mask somehow puts zero pressure on your eyes while also keeping all the light out, plus it’s thick, soft, breathable, and washable.

Promising review: “I love this excellent sleep mask. It’s soft, very lightweight and comfortable. It has an easy to use Velcro strap and eye socket voids for maximum comfort. If you have long eyelashes you’ll appreciate the design of this mask. Worth the high price.” — Jamie S. 

What else to consider: It’s not the most affordable eye mask on this list, but most reviewers feel that it’s worth the price for the comfort and effectiveness. 

Best for: keeping out as much light as possible, in the most comfortable way possible.

You can buy the Ostrichpillow Eye Mask from Amazon for around $45.

Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask

Another silky sleep mask option, this one from Alaska Bear is affordable and has everything you need — it’s naturally hypoallergenic mulberry silk, non-absorbent, has an adjustable band, and comes in a variety of colors. Despite the lack of a contoured shape, it promises to keep out light thanks to the extra wide design with a deeper nose cutout. 

Promising review: “I love this eye mask! It’s my second one to purchase only because I temporarily lost my first one and panicked and immediately ordered a new one. It’s very soft and lightweight and keeps out any light. I found my original one eventually and now I’m so happy that I have 2! I even travel with it!” — Amanda

What else to consider: The larger surface area of this eye mask means it may cover more of your face than other masks, but the high quality material also ensures that it won’t cause any irritation or discomfort. 

Best for: a classic and affordable silk sleep mask that gets the job done.

You can buy the Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask from Amazon for around $10.

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Best Sleep Masks of 2024

A sleep mask can offer a touch of relaxation to your bedtime routine while efficiently blocking out any light, which can be harmful to your sleep. In general, sleep masks are an affordable, portable way to get better sleep.

Sleep is incredibly important to your well-being. However, distractions like noise and light can damper the quality of your snooze. “Our eyelids are extremely thin,” says Dr. Rebecca Robbins, a sleep medicine professor at Harvard Medical School. “Even a sliver of light from under your door or through curtains can be enough to disrupt your sleep.”

Sleep masks come in different materials, shapes, and sizes. Some also have special features like small microbeads, that create a weighted sensation when placed on your face. Below, we broke down the best sleeping masks you can find on the market today.

Table of Contents

• Best Sleep Masks
• Things to Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask  »

Provides blackout effect

Has memory foam eyecups

May be too bulky for some

Elastic band may fall off during the night

We rated the Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask as our best overall pick because it comes with a variety of features all at a reasonable price point. The mask is made of memory foam and has eye contour cups which are meant to sit over the eye and help relieve pressure. The mask is also put together with a heat-bond technology that’s supposed to make it more durable, according to the manufacturer.

The Mzoo mask’s strap is adjustable to ensure that it can fit different-sized heads. It also comes in black, blue, purple, gray, and yellow. Reviewers report that the Mzoo mask is soft to sleep in and very effective at blocking out light. However, some sleepers might find the mask a bit too bulky for their liking. They might prefer a thinner silk sleep mask that doesn’t have memory foam padding.

Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask  »

Good for side sleepers, stomach, and combo sleepers

Features silk

Comes in different patterns and colors

Might not block as much light as other options

Doesn’t have eyecups

The Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask is a popular budget option for anyone looking for a silk sleep mask. The mask is made of silk, with a cotton insert, and comes with an adjustable loop that ensures you can customize the mask to your head and face shape. You can also get the mask in a few different colors and patterns, which could be a plus if you like sleeping in style.

Reviewers say the mask is especially good for side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combo sleepers because it fits snugly around your face and stays in place if you move around at night. Another plus is that the mask doesn’t have the same bulkiness as weighted masks or masks made with memory foam.

However, there are a few trade-offs. For one, reviewers mention it might not be as good as blocking out light as other masks. Its lack of eyecups means you need to keep the whole mask tight to your face, which can put pressure on your eyes.

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask  »

Lightweight

Has eyecups

Good for back sleepers

Might not be good for sleepers who toss and turn

Some reviewers find it scratchy

We picked the Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask as our best mask for travel because of its lightweight yet effective design that works well for sleeping upright, as you would when jet-setting.

The sleep mask comes in a few different colors. It has an adjustable strap and eye cups that mold around your eyes to create a strong light barrier without putting pressure directly on your eyes. Despite having these cups, reviewers say it doesn’t feel as bulky as other models made of similar materials.

A trade-off of this mask is that it might not be a good fit for side or stomach sleepers. If you move around at night, you might find that the mask is too lightweight to stay in place and may require adjusting.

Made of cooling materials

Suitable for any sleeping style

Comes in different colors

Difficult to secure properly

Not good for people with certain health conditions

The Nodpod, which comes in a slew of different colors, is our pick for the best weighted mask on the market. The idea is that similar to a weighted blanket, a weighted mask can promote relaxation and decrease anxiety. However, more research is needed to show that weighted masks are beneficial because of their weight> Even still, they can block out light just as well as other eye masks.

Made of jersey cotton and microfleece, the Nodpod is filled with four pods of microbeads, which bring the mask’s weight to 9 ounces. If you’re a hot sleeper, or like the experience of feeling like you’re at a luxury spa, you should also know that this mask is freezable.

While the mask might work for some side sleepers, it’s better for back sleepers who can experience the weight evenly across their face. Some reviewers report that the mask can be difficult to adjust to fit your head – rather than having an attached elastic band, this sleep mask wraps around your head, and you secure it by threading one end through a hole in the other end. Also, while some people benefit from the weight on their eyes, those with sensitive eyes or conditions such as glaucoma should consult their doctor.

Manta Sleep Mask  »

Good at blocking light

Machine-washable

Can be tricky to get the right fit

The Manta Sleep Mask is the best mask for sleepers who are light-sensitive on our list. As Dr. Robbins mentioned, light can make or break a good night’s sleep – and you might not even realize it. A good eye mask is effective at blocking out any light, even if it’s just a streetlight that’s peeking in through your curtains

The Manta Sleep Mask has cushioned cups made of foam to keep pressure off your eyeballs. Reviewers report that the construction of the mask makes for a blackout effect, which might be good for people who work the night shift or have a different sleeping schedule than their partner.

However, if you are looking for a stylish sleep mask to add to your bedtime routine, the Manta Sleep Mask might not be for you: it has a bulky fit that some reviewers say looks strange or other-worldly. Some users also had difficulty adjusting the mask to fit properly.

Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask  »

Made of silk

Comes in different colors and patterns

Good for all sleeping styles

Not as adjustable as other models

Not as good at blocking light completely

We picked the Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask as the best mask for hot sleepers due to its material. The mask is made of mulberry silk, which is soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, and easy on the skin. While mulberry silk is typically more expensive than other types of silk, the mask is still fairly affordable compared to the other masks on the list.

The mask comes in a few different colors and unique patterns, and since it fits snugly onto the face, it works for most sleeping styles. While reviewers say it’s good at blocking light, you might not get the same total blackout you can get from some other masks Another tradeoff is that the mask is not adjustable, which can be a nuisance if it doesn’t fit properly.

The Bottom Line

Overall, eye masks come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, but the ones on our list can be broken down into a few different categories. We feature a weighted mask, alongside structured masks and the more basic but luxurious silk masks. Each has pros and cons, depending on your needs. If you’re looking for something simple, soft, and breathable, you might prefer the Alaska Bear or Brookinen sleep mask. If you’re looking for something that’s especially efficient at blocking out light, you might like one of the options on the list that comes with cups that mold to your eyes.

Things to Consider When Buying Sleep Masks

Materials: Certain materials are more breathable than others, so you should keep that in mind when you’re shopping for a sleep mask.

Silk masks feel more luxurious and soft than masks made of other materials. They can be especially beneficial if you suffer from skin irritation or acne.

Many masks are made with cotton – which is also a breathable material. If you like the feeling of pressure on your face at night, you might like a mask made with memory foam or filled with microbeads.

Fit: Some sleep masks are more fitted, while others stay flat on your face. The more fitted masks, like the Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask, Manta Eye Mask, and Mzoo Eye Mask, can be more conforming and bulkier than other models. Most silk face masks won’t mold into your face like fitted masks will but are more likely to stay put at night.

When you’re looking at fit, you should also check a mask’s adjustability. If you like the option of loosening or tightening the straps, you should make sure the mask you’re buying allows for this. Some of the options on our list, like the Brooklinen mask, aren’t adjustable.

Cleaning: Once you invest in a sleep mask, you’ll likely be wearing it every night. This can lead to issues like acne breakouts if you don’t clean it often enough. To keep your face free of any dust and grime, you will want to make sure you’re going to sleep with a clean mask covering your eyes. While some masks on our list, like the Manta Sleep Mask, are machine washable, others, like the masks made of silk, might need to be dry cleaned or washed by hand because they are more delicate.

Check the instructions on your sleep mask before you clean it as they will have more details about what exactly our mask can and can’t handle.

How We Chose the Best Sleep Masks

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our editors consulted with a sleep medicine specialist and scoured online reviews to create this ranking of the Best Sleep Masks. (The takeaway? Sleep masks can be an affordable way to get better sleep.) We then narrowed down the selection, considering the material, price, and more. Overall, we found that there’s a sleep mask for every type of sleeper.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. Our health and wellness writer Amanda Svachula has covered sleep for U.S. News & World Report 360 Reviews since 2022. U.S. News 360 Reviews editors have used a variety of sleep masks in their personal lives and also have years of reviewing sleep products.

Sleep masks can block out any light that might be disrupting your sleep. They can be especially helpful for people who work at night and need to get sleep during the day, or sleepers who have partners with different sleep schedules. “An eye mask could be helpful to block light from a nightstand or closet that your partner may be using as they go to bed after you,” says Dr. White.

Sleep masks improve sleep quality by blocking out any light that might reach you at night. Limiting your light intake can increase your production of melatonin, a hormone that helps you get to sleep and is triggered by darkness. Wearing a sleep mask can also help increase the amount of time you spend in deep sleep, which is essential to supporting a lot of core bodily functions.

Sleep masks can help with insomnia and other sleep disorders by blocking out light. They can also be helpful to people struggling with insomnia and sleep disorders simply because they can be a comforting addition to a bedtime ritual. “A sleep mask can be part of your bedtime routine, and quite simply help with your sleep by serving as one of several activities you do before bedtime,” says Dr. White. “Bedtime routines, or the set of practices we engage in before bedtime, are powerful because our brain starts to understand that what comes after that set of activities is sleep!”

About Our Team

Amanda svachula.

Contributor

Chelsea Van Bloom

Senior Editor and Category Lead

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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THE PERFECT GIFT FOR DAD

Blackout Travel Eye & Sleep Mask

Close your eyes, relax and catch some shut-eye.

Anatomically shaped and plush with soft cushioning for a comfortable fit that snuggles smoothly against your eyes. Great for busy hotels, long layovers, long flights or anywhere natural and artificial light threaten to wreck your sleep. 

• Plush, soft cushioning
• Anatomically shaped
• Keeps out natural and artificial light

Customer Reviews

I bought these for a trip to Alaska and they worked great

it definitely keeps the light out your eyes when you need sleep

Great sleep, we used them on a long flight Extremely comfortable!!!

Exactly what I was looking for in a sleep mask. Blocks the light and really like the pouch it comes with when not using

Love these. Completely blocks out the light and it adjusts to all head shapes. I ended up getting a couple of them for family members. Highly recommended

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This tarp is exactly what i have been looking for to pair with my bivy sack on long distance hikes. Used it several times now and has exceeded my expectations. Excellent build quality, able to secure a taut pitch quickly and the cord storage pouches are a plus. Haven't had a chance to test in the rain yet but so far so good.

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Recently purchased the Grand Trunk Pivot Day Pack with drawstrings, and I love it. I chose the drawstring pack, because I feel it would contain more items than the zipper edition. Also, it would be more rugged. The first item I place in the pack is the Big Fleur hammock I purchased. Then in goes the Parasheet Beach Blanket, which I purchased many years ago. Finally, I place in it the trunk straps. There is plenty of room for a jacket or other items. The width of the pack is just wide enough to fit the hammock comfortably and easily retrieve the hammock. This is the perfect pack for carrying your hammock and trunk straps in, plus has room for more. Michael of Iowa

I love my GT hammock, but the ROVR might be my new favorite for lounging around. When I sit sideways on my hammock, it always cuts into my legs. The ROVR solved this for me. It gives the the cozy feel of a hammock, but I get to look my family, rock with my feet and no more leg discomfort! My hammock is great for resting/sleeping, ROVR is more comfortable for sitting/socializing. Glad I decided to try it out.

The $35 eye mask the multimillionaire XPrize founder swears by for better sleep

• XPrize founder Peter Diamandis wants to live as long as possible in good health.
• In addition to dieting and exercising for longevity, he prioritizes seven to eight hours of sleep a night.
• He also likes to wear a blackout eye mask called Manta. 

Peter Diamandis isn't afraid to spend some serious cash in pursuit of his own longevity.

The XPrize founder says he's jetted down to Panama City for pricey stem cell injections in his knee and his shoulder, and he uses high-end supplements for muscle-building.

He's also the driving force behind millions of dollars of investment into moonshot-style longevity projects. In 2023, he announced a $101 million XPrize competition designed to find interventions that will help people live 10 extra healthy years. And he is a cofounder of Fountain Life, a network of longevity clinics he started alongside Tony Robbins and others, which has garnered more than $46 million in VC funding.

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So it was a surprise when the multimillionaire longevity investor told Business Insider that his "favorite sleep device" is a $35 eye mask that started out as a Kickstarter in 2017.

"It basically blocks out all the light," Diamandis said of his Manta sleep mask. "I travel with it, and I love it. It's not expensive, and it's just a great asset."

Sleep masks are a booming industry

Diamandis said he has never invested in Manta; he's just a fan of the company, which has also developed something of a cult following on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram.

Demand for sleep masks is rising fast as business travelers grow increasingly aware of the benefits of a good night's rest (and a good nap in transit). Manta was one of the first sleep masks to prioritize side sleepers and include eyecups.

Decades of research have shown that the benefits of good sleep extend beyond feeling well-rested. It helps your brain encode memories and speed up learning. It also repairs the immune system, allowing the body to release essential hormones for muscle repair and relaxation. Plus, it can help control your appetite .

Of course, being rich is a great way to get good rest , because generally the less stressed you are about keeping food on the table and a roof over your head, the easier it is to nod off.

But Diamandis thinks our cultural awareness around the importance of sleep is also shifting for the better. He remembers what it was like back in the 1980s at Harvard, when operating on very little sleep was something he'd brag about.

"When I was in medical school, it was the last thing I would think about," Diamandis said. "Now, I pride myself on getting eight hours of sleep."

That usually means he's in bed by 9:30, and asleep around 10. Sleep scientists are starting to coalesce around the importance of a consistent bedtime routine, with new findings supporting the idea that maintaining a good sleep schedule may be even more important than how many hours of shut-eye a person gets.

"Even at my events where I've got hundreds or thousands of people, it's like, 'Peter, stick around!' Nope, I'm going to sleep," he said. "I'm not sure that that's the most sociable approach to life, but it's my habit."

Watch: How a Thai mask-maker is keeping a 600-year-old tradition alive

• Main content

The 16 Best Under-Eye Masks for Puffiness, Dark Circles, and Wrinkles

This is armor for your insomnia.

You should know that under-eye masks can provide temporary relief to pretty much anyone, but they won’t solve issues long-term. “Patches can offer some minimal to modest improvement, so it’s important to the right expectations,” explains dermatologist Dr. Omar Ibrahimi . “However, these are usually fairly well tolerated and come with minimal risk.” Still, they’re a fun little way to hydrate and soothe the under-eyes and a great opportunity for a cute morning selfie. You can even pop them in the fridge before use to activate their cooling effects or utilize them to prime your eyes before makeup.

Best for Quick Results

Topicals faded under-eye masks.

Best Reusable

Dieux forever eye mask.

Best Biodegradable

Live tinted rays copper eye masks.

We spoke to skin experts, combed through countless customer reviews, and spoke to ELLE beauty editors to uncover the 16 best under-eye patches to keep under-eye bags and darkness at bay. Discover them for yourself below.

You may have seen these eye patches on the coolest beauty girls and boys. There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to the Topicals Faded Under-Eye Masks; their formula features a host of healing and brightening ingredients, like caffeine, niacinamide, and kojic acid. In just 15 minutes, you’ll look like you’ve had your eight hours of sleep (even if you haven’t).

Key ingredients : Niacinamide, transexamic acid, kojic acid, caffeine, arbutin

Pairs per pack : 6

Topicals rating : 4.8/5 stars

An ELLE editor says : “When I think about buying a face mask, I tend to ask myself two questions: Are they effective? And are they cute enough to wear outside? With these, it’s a resounding yes to both. These hydrogel patches help to fade discoloration and hydrate your eye area while delivering a soothing cooling sensation. With my sensitive and dry skin, it’s really important for me to show my under-eyes some extra love, so these always come in handy. I always pop these on when I have some down time or if I’m running quick errands.” — Tasha Nicole Smith , beauty assistant

You can forget about constantly refilling your stash and opt for these delightfully reusable patches that have taken TikTok by storm. Made of soft, medical-grade silicone, they’re packed with potent ingredients, like niacinamide, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid, to visibly soothe, brighten, and plump. Bonus: They’ll also help lock in your favorite skincare products for even better results.

Key ingredients : Glycerin, peptides, niacinamide

Pairs per pack : 1

Dieux rating : 4.7/5 stars

An ELLE editor says : “The idea of a reusable eye mask is clever, but it also works. I’ve tried the Dieux eye mask (made of silicone) on top of my favorite eye cream on just one side. After a few minutes, the side with the mask was slightly brighter and less crepey-looking, which made my tired, grey eye circles on the other side stand out more. And you can keep using it—if not forever, then for a long time.” — Kathleen Hou , ELLE beauty director

Brighter under eyes are coming, especially if you try these sun-shaped masks. They’re soaked in a serum that’s packed with banana extract and hydrogel to soothe and brighten. Plenty of copper peptides, which encourage collagen production and plump skin, are in the mix too.

Key ingredients : Copper, bakuchiol

Ulta rating : 4.4/5 stars

An ELLE editor says : “These patches make it look like you have copper sun rays under your eyes. When running on minimal sleep, I put these on post-shower, and by the time I’m ready for work, it looks like I snuck in three additional hours of sleep. I love them!” — Danielle James , digital beauty director ”

Talika Eye Therapy Patch

These reusable eye patches were created to help smooth and hydrate the under-eye area. If you travel a lot or are worried about losing a pair, this set comes with extras, so you can keep some at work or let a guest borrow a set when they come to visit.

Key ingredients : Shea butter, ceramides

Target rating : 3.6/5 stars

An ELLE editor says : “Drew Barrymore loves these eye patches and I love them for the same reason. Much like the Dieux, they are also reusable but come in a set of three so that if you loose one or even two, you still always have a backup.” — Kathleen Hou

111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask

This uber-luxe under-eye mask will give even the most sensitive skin the pick-me-up that it needs. The formula contains diamond particles that exfoliate the skin, so the active ingredients can get to work and soak in for hydrating, brightening results.

Key ingredients : Diamond particles, hyaluronic acid, hexapeptide, rose hip

Pairs per pack : 8

Saks Fifth Avenue rating : 4.9/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “This is one of the most luxurious eye masks, but I really think it’s one of the best for an almost immediate result. It really feels like it forms a seal to infuse my under-eye area with moisture so that they look less dry and more plumped up. Also, it has a cooling effect. Maybe the fact that it’s black also makes me feel like it’s seriously working, or it could be its hydrating yet functional formula of retinol, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid.” — Kathleen Hou

Patchology Serve Chilled On Ice

Patchology has mastered the art of creating eye patches for any situation. The Serve Chilled On Ice version does it all: soothe, firm, tighten, and smooth. This is all made possible thanks to peptides, bakuchiol, and cloudberry oil, which is chock-full of brightening vitamin C.

Key ingredients : Cloudberry oil, bakuchiol, peptides

Pairs per pack : 5

Amazon rating : 4.4/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Coffee doesn’t do anything for me, which is why I don’t drink it often. But every time I wake up more exhausted and sluggish than usual, I wish I could indulge in a cup and have it rejuvenate me in the way it seems to do for everyone else. However, Patchology’s eye patches have become my personal wake-up trick. I slap a pair on in the morning, and I feel ten times more awake and aware of my surroundings than I did without them. They’re perfect even on busy mornings since I only need a few minutes with them to experience their effects.” — Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer

Shangpree Eye Mask

If you are someone who enjoys using eye masks often, it might be better to invest in them in bulk. For just $30, this K-beauty set comes with a whopping 30 pairs. That means you can use them liberally and not worry about running out any time soon.

Key ingredients : Marine extracts

Pairs per pack: 30

Amazon rating : 4.1/5 stars

An ELLE editor says : “Why would I want just 12 eye masks or some teeny number of them, versus 30? I like that this is literally a tub of eye masks and that it’s minimal waste, too, because they’re stacked on top of each other like cookies. My friend Alicia Yoon, founder of Peach & Lily, was the one who introduced me to Shangpree, a legendary Korean facialist purveyor whose estheticians are required to do three years of training before they’re even allowed to touch a face. Naturally, their products are made with the same level of fastidiousness.” — Kathleen Hou

Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels, 8 count

An ELLE editor favorite, these refreshing crescents are packed with an inordinate amount of moisture, softening fine lines and plumping deep sockets in 10 minutes flat. What’s most unique about these is that they feature Icelandic Complex, a proprietary blend of natural ingredients sourced from Iceland, designed to replenish nutrients that stress depletes from the skin.

Key ingredients : Proteins, peptides, antioxidants

Pairs per pack : 12

Amazon rating : 4.3/5 stars

An expert reviewer says : "I’ll be honest, I’m normally skeptical of the ‘instant plumpin’ powers of under-eye patches. But of all the versions I’ve tried that have seemed to fall flat, these luxurious Skyn masks are ones I’d actually reach for again. During WFH mornings when I’m really dragging, I’ll pop these on to help de-puff, nourish, and immediately cool my skin for a quick pick-me-up. And unlike many other designs, I like that they have a soft outer covering, so they're not as messy and easily stay put." — Sam Peters , Hearst senior commerce editor

The Hollywood Eye 24K Golden Under-Eye Mask

If you love indulging in spa nights on the regular, this pack of 24K gold- and hyaluronic acid-infused eye patches will have you covered. Amazon reviewers mention that they visibly help plump and smooth skin and are non-irritating.

Key ingredients : Collagen, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera

Pairs per pack : 16

An Amazon reviewer says : “I love using eye masks, as it makes me feel very pampered. These are inexpensive and pretty effective. I have large bags under my eyes that seem less harsh since using these twice a week. Would recommend!”

Peter Thomas Roth 24K Gold Pure Luxury Lift & Firm Hydra-Gel Eye Patches

Alexa, play “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars. These eye patches actually contain 24K gold, which has skincare benefits like firming and lifting. Meanwhile, hydrolyzed collagen helps airbrush out any fine lines, and caffeine shakes out that heavy feeling on your lids from early mornings.

Key ingredients : Collagen, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, gold

Pairs per pack : 30

An Amazon reviewer says : “These are the bomb!! Left them on for two to three hours yesterday, and the wrinkled, hollowed-out circles under my eyes were gone! (I’m 55, so these wrinkles are not a temporary situation). I’m leery of product claims in beauty items, but these suckers are worth their weight in gold! (See what I did there?).”

Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks

Look fabulous during and after an application of these gold foil eye masks. Powered by anti-inflammatory and brightening camu camu extract as well as plumping peptides, the patches erase signs of exhaustion in minutes. They come with a lot of serum, so you can apply any excess product onto your under eyes afterward for extra hydration.

Key ingredients : Hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C

Pairs per pack: 6

Nordstrom rating : 4.3/5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says : “I ordered these to use before my wedding. I tested out a pair a few weeks prior and loved how they moisturized my under eyes. They really diminished the dark circles that are a constant fixture on my grad student face.”

Yes to Cucumbers Depuffing Under-Eye Masks

You might not be at a spa with cucumber slices on your eyes, but this is the next best thing. These masks are nourishing, calming, and safe for even the most sensitive wearer. Pro tip: pop these in the freezer for extra cooling effects.

Key ingredients : Caffeine, cucumber extract, aloe vera

An Amazon reviewer says : “At 71, I’m still careful about not using oily products on my skin, which would cause a breakout. This gel is cooling, takes only a small pea-size bit patted under my eyes each morning, and has kept my eye area looking fresh.”

Pixi BeautifEYE Brightening Eye Patches

Perk up tired eyes with an energizing blend of vitamin C, licorice, and ginseng. Note that these are paraben-free and great for all skin types, too.

Key ingredients : Vitamin C, licorice, ginseng

Target rating : 4.3/5 stars

A Target reviewer says : “My eye bags constantly look like I haven’t slept in days (senior in high school things:)), but with these, my under eyes brightened after just two uses. These are now going to be a part of my daily routine, and they leave my skin super hydrated.”

Joanna Vargas Skin Care Bright Eye Firming Mask

Give your eyes a much-needed break from being strained by screens with these refreshing patches, which moisturize with a boost of hyaluronic acid and reduce puffiness, courtesy of chamomile extract. Meanwhile, the inclusion of peptides helps combat discoloration and thinning skin.

Key ingredients : Hyaluronic acid, peptides, chamomile extract

Amazon rating : 3.9/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says : “They are easy to use, feel cooling, and absorb right into your skin without any greasy residue. They produce visible results. My crows feet were much smoother after the first use, and the skin around my eyes looked refreshed and replenished.”

PÜR Mellow Eyes Hemp Infused Eye Patches

No need to stress—just throw on some of these hemp-infused eye masks and watch your worries drift away. These masks help hydrate and calm the sensitive skin near your eyes, thanks to green tea extract. The sweet kiwi smell might just trigger your cravings, too.

Key ingredients : Niacinamide, caffeine, cucumber extract

Amazon rating : 4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says : “I have very puffy eyes in the morning, and now that I’m 50, they don’t go away, even with caffeinated eye cream. I’m happy to say these eye patches actually work! I was skeptical, but they’re a new staple in my skincare regimen.”

Derma E Vitamin C Bright Eyes Hydro Gel Patches

You put vitamin C on your face to deal with hyperpigmentation and dullness, so do the same for your under eyes. Plus, a jolt of caffeine in these works to banish puffiness. If your goal is to make everyone around you think you sleep for eight hours a night, these will do the trick.

Key ingredients : Caffeine, vitamin C

Ulta rating : 4/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says : “I absolutely LOVE these gel patches! I start my morning off with these after I cleanse my skin; they feel sooo nice and are such a calming way to start your day. I leave them on for the time suggested, and the serum does make my under eyes noticeably brighter, soft, and hydrated.”

Meet the experts

Dr. Karan Lal is a celebrity dermatologist currently practicing at Schweiger Dermatology Group .

Dr. Omar Ibrahimi is a dermatologist with Connecticut Skin Institute .

What are the most common under-eye complaints?

“Dark circles are multifactorial and can be due to loss of fat from aging, veins that are creating that dark appearance under the skin, and/or hyperpigmentation from chronic rubbing,” says Dr. Lal. “After dark circles, the next big complaint is wrinkling and crepiness. This is due to skin thinning as we age. Sun damage also contributes to skin thinning.”

Can under-eye patches really help with these issues?

A good skincare routine coupled with professional treatments can bring the results you desire. “The under-eye area is an area that needs procedures,” Dr. Lal adds. “Filler, neuromodulators, fractional ablative resurfacing, and or picosecond lasers are needed to truly make your under-eye issues better.”

Are there ingredients people should look for when trying to treat puffiness or dark circles?

“Yes, there are a variety of ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, caffeine, green tea, and niacinamide,” says Dr. Ibrahimi. “Ingredients like retinol or vitamin C can also help but beware, these may be more irritating.” If you’re looking for some gold under-eye patches, beware that some people can find them sensitizing. “Gold can actually cause hyperpigmentation, and some people can be allergic to gold,” warns Dr. Lal. Gold and other heavy metals can leave a blue-gray pigment behind, but in most cases, this hyperpigmentation is reversible.

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T&C Tried & True : Why the Therabody SmartGoggles Will Change Your Stress Levels

Pop them on and let the heat and massage work their magic.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

By now, my love for wellness tech is well documented. I swear by HigherDose's sauna blanket and infrared mat . Red led light masks ? I'm game. Even better if they'll make my hair grow. Any device that can help me elevate my physical well-being, I am pretty much game to try. So of course, when the Therabody SmartGoggles launched a few years ago, I had to get my hands on a pair to test.

Therabody SmartGoggles

Having owned them for a while now, I can say that this little tool packs a serious-stress busting punch. And unlike bigger wellness all-stars that I love, the eye mask tool is compact and travel ready. I am both a person that carries a lot of eye tension from too much screen time and a person that holds a lot of stress and tension in my face. Even with that in mind, I was shocked to discover for myself what a lovely treat this tool is. The heat and vibration are both gentle, but effective, and the temple massage really does blast away that heaviness that I get in my forehead area after a hard day. It even helps ease my body out of tension before I feel a headache coming on.

What I've liked most about this device is that it monitors your heart rate, so even if you don't immediately feel the effects of the treatment, you can see how your body registers them. I have found that the device has also been effective at when I need to take a moment for myself to reset a little bit. I pop the SmartGoggles on, maybe I do a meditation or some deep breathing, and after I feel so much more chilled out. This has been especially nice during times where getting a massage or a treatment isn't in the cards. Also, they are really great to use when you are feeling restless or have woken up and are tossing and turning.

Given how minimal the time commitment to taking a moment for yourself can be with this easy to use tool, I can think of nothing more effective in terms of a small change that can make a meaningful difference in stress levels. This one is staying in my wellness gadget repertoire forever.

As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel. 

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The 8 Best COVID-19 Face Masks, Researched and Reviewed

A guide to effective protection and comfort in the evolving pandemic landscape.

Rebecca Carhart is a Senior Ecommerce Reviews Writer covering home, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products.

Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. He is a seasoned financial and technology journalist who served as editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire for nearly two decades, and is a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun. He has also been a news editor for America Online and has contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

How We Selected

The experts.

Health / Kristin Kempa

Face masks, including high-filtration N95s and KN95s, proved to be a key component in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 at the beginning of the pandemic. However, with the emergence of new COVID-19 strains and the rise of flu and RSV cases, potentially leading to a tripledemic , health officials are now once again urging the renewed use of face masks. As of May 2024, the CDC reports that a new COVID-19 variant, "FLiRT" , is the current dominant strain, accounting for 24 percent of new sequenced cases in the final two weeks of April. According to the CDC’s recent guidance, masks should be worn when there is a high level of COVID in your community .

According to Monica Gandhi , MD, MPH, Director of UCSF-Bay Area Center for AIDS Research (CFAR), masks work individually as long as the individual properly wears the face mask . Experts and the CDC recommend wearing a mask that covers your mouth and nose while fitting under your chin. The mask must be snug on your face while allowing you to breathe easily. Julie Chen , MD, an integrative medicine physician who is board-certified in internal medicine, says that masks are made of multiple layers of material that block out 95 percent of 0.3-micron particles . She adds that the Coronavirus is even smaller (0.1 microns) but is usually attached to something larger like droplets, making them 95 percent protective.

With so many masks to choose from in different shapes and sizes, many factors come into play when choosing a mask, such as when to wear one, the level of protection you want, fit, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. An allergist and immunologist on our Medical Expert Board reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy surrounding what to look for in COVID-19 face masks and their effectiveness against the virus.

Editor's Take

As the Commerce Editor for Health with a degree in biology, I know the importance of high-quality face masks. I always wear at least a medical-grade face mask when traveling or in crowded places to prevent illness, especially since I spend time with my elderly grandmother and 6-month-old nephew. Medical-grade masks, although loose-fitting and disposable, create a barrier against contaminants, suitable for daily use. 

Dr. Gandhi recommends N95, KN95, KF94, or FFP2 masks or double-masking indoors to block respiratory pathogens. N95 masks, approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), offer 95% filtration and are now more accessible to the public.

If you don't have an N95 or KN95 mask, surgical masks are the next best option. They protect against large droplets but don't filter the smallest particles and don’t fit as snugly. High-risk individuals, like the elderly or those with medical conditions, may want to wear masks in crowded places regardless of COVID levels in their community.

Wearing the right mask is a simple yet effective way to contribute to public health safety, especially when visiting vulnerable family members, spending time in crowded places, or when community transmission is high. 

- Lauren Paige Richeson , Commerce Editor

Best Overall

Demetech niosh n95 face mask, why we like it.

The DemeTECH NIOSH N95 respirator face mask has been highly rated as a protective N95 mask that can be worn daily with comfort and ease . The mask has five layers with 2 filtration layers that filter more than 98 percent of all airborne particles. The mask features double-welded head straps with an adjustable nose piece to provide a strong fit and seal against the wearer’s face.

It’s Worth Noting

This mask may not be a great option for people with small faces.

Product Details:

• Type of mask: N95
• Reusable: No
• Size of pack: 20 pack

Best Budget

Boncare kn95 face mask.

Each mask features five layers for ample protection . The outer layers are made with a non-woven material that is soft against the skin , while the three inner layers are made from hot air cotton and melt-blown fabric. They work together to block out more than 95 percent of particles. The foldable mask features a triangular design that fits snugly on the face but still leaves plenty of breathing room around the nose and mouth.

These masks are on the smaller side, so they may not be a good choice for people with large faces.

• Type of mask: Disposable mask
• Size of pack: 30

Best for Kids

Happy masks pro.

Happy Masks

With its unique “parrot-beak” design , the mask leaves space for your nose and mouth to easily breathe while still protecting you with its five layers of protection . Happy Masks come in different sizes however the adjustable nose wire and ear straps help ensure a perfect fit for various face shapes.

Happy Masks are a hit with children because they come in a variety of colors and designs. And the adjustable nose wire and ear straps help avoid irritation on kids’ sensitive skin. Parents will love that the mask has a 95 percent filtration rate and can be reused up to 50 times.

The masks are reusable but need to be hand-washed between uses.

• Type of mask: N99
• Reusable: Yes
• Size of pack: 1 mask

Best Adjustable

Enro solid tech face mask.

The Enro Solid Tech Face Mask gives a customized fit for each wearer. The masks come in six different sizes that range from XXS to XL. They also include an adjustable nose bridge and adjustable ear loops.

This face mask can also be washed up to 100 times in the washing machine, which makes it one of the most sustainable face masks. Enro masks feature a 99% virus, bacteria, and particle filtration efficiency rate . The ultra-lightweight mask also provides comfort that helps wearers breathe easier, even while running and exercising.

Sizes may run larger than the measurements indicated on the website.

• Type of mask: Cloth mask

Best for Travel

Kimberly-clark professional n95 pouch respirator.

The softer pouch style of this NIOSH-approved N95 mask provides lighter and more comfortable wear than the traditional cup-shaped N95 masks, which makes it great for traveling ; the design of the mask makes it easier to breathe while still forming a seal around the nose and mouth to help protect the wearer. The mask also features headbands that go over the head versus around the ears to add more comfort for long-term wear. Many shoppers have noted how well the mask can be molded to properly fit their faces.

It might not be suitable for smaller faces.

• Size of pack: 50 pack

Best Recyclable

Vida niosh and fda approved n95 mask.

VIDA’s N95 masks are NIOSH- and FDA-approved and are environmentally friendly. The N95 respirator mask provides a 95 percent+ filtration rate against solid and liquid aerosols. It has four protective layers, two headbands , and an adjustable nose bridge wire . The masks come in three different sizes : regular, kids XS, and kids, alongside a family pack option where both kids and regular sizes can be purchased together.

VIDA has a sustainability program to help ensure the masks get properly recycled. They provide customers with a shipping label so used masks can be returned to their facility.

VIDA masks are non-washable and should be replaced on a daily basis.

• Size of pack: Varies from 10 to 1,000 pack

Best Surgical Masks

Magicare medical grade disposable face masks.

This disposable face mask has a three-layer protection made of soft breathable material . The soft inner lining is designed for comfort and to keep your face cool and moisture-free. The strong but pliable nose wire allows this mask to contour to the face for a snug fit. The ear loop of this mask is made of a highly stretchable soft material that is latex-free. The strong ear loop won’t break as easily as other disposable face masks.

The masks are not individually wrapped, so they may be hard to carry as spares when out and about.

• Type of mask: Disposable surgical mask

Best for Glasses

3m 9205+ aura particulate n95 respirator.

The 3M Aura Particulate Respirator 9205+ N95 is another NIOSH-approved respiratory solution , particularly beneficial for individuals who wear glasses. Its thoughtful three-part design with an adjustable nose clip minimizes fogging on glasses, ensuring clear vision during use. The straps securely fasten around the back of your head, alleviating discomfort around the ears. 

Offering N95-level protection, its efficient filtration capabilities safeguard against airborne particles and enhance respiratory defense while maintaining comfort. Its contoured top section contributes to stability during conversation or daily activities, making it a practical choice for various environments. Whether you're in bustling settings or tackling everyday activities, the 3M Aura Particulate Respirator 9205+ N95 is tailored to provide reliable protection without compromising your visual clarity or overall comfort.

Some users have noted that it may feel a bit snug on the face and the staples and strong smell can potentially cause discomfort during prolonged wear.

When picking each face mask listed, we considered the experts' and CDC's recommendations.

While reviewing the various face masks on the market, we considered whether the mask is NIOSH —and FDA-approved, the level of protection, the cost-effectiveness, the comfort, and the ease of use and breathing . We offer a range of different types of face masks that fit various budgets and levels of protection.

To determine the best face masks for COVID-19 protection, we asked experts for their recommendations and why. The experts we spoke with included:

• Julie Chen, MD, an integrative medicine physician who is board-certified in internal medicine
• Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, Director of UCSF-Bay Area Center for AIDS Research (CFAR)

CDC. Covid data tracker. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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The Most Heartbreaking Deaths in Sailor Moon, Ranked

Sailor Moon tends to be a pretty lighthearted magical girl anime. There's a big focus on friendship, developing romance, personal growth, and plenty of comical moments. But though there's plenty of lively and swoon-worthy story and character beats, the series also has its fair share of tragedy and high stakes.

As powerful as Sailor Moon and her fellow Sailor Senshi are, they can still be vulnerable to grave injuries — and even death. Their enemies are just as powerful, and they cause plenty of damage. Some Sailor Moon deaths are heartbreaking because a hero sacrifices themselves for the greater good. Some of the more tragic villains finally redeem themselves only to perish later.

Sailor Moon (1992)

A group of schoolgirls discover they are incarnations of super-powered alien princesses, and use their abilities to defend the earth.

Release Date September 11, 1995

Cast Cristina Valenzuela, Amanda Cline Miller, Kate Higgins, Cherami Leigh, Rica Fukami, Emi Shinohara, Aya Hisakawa, Michie Tomizawa, Kotono Mitsuishi, Stephanie Sheh

Main Genre Anime

Genres Action, Adventure

Rating TV-PG

Creator Naoko Takeuchi

Main Characters Susan Roman, Jill Frappier, Katie Griffin

Production Company Toei Agency, Toei Animation, Toei Company

Number of Episodes 200

10 Most Obvious Death Flags in Anime

Anime deaths should make an impact, but sometimes obvious death flags kill off characters like FMAB's Maes Hughes and Vinland Saga's Thors Snorresson.

Hawk's Eye Remains Loyal to His Friends Until the End

Hawk's Eye is one of the Amazon Trio villains in the Dream arc in Sailor Moon SuperS. Hawk Eye's a rather likable villain , because he may be mischievous, but he's not completely evil. He, Fish Eye, and Tiger's Eye were all once animals before they were transformed into humanoid forms and ordered to serve Zirconia, who is truly evil.

Zirconia is the one pulling the strings behind the Amazon Trio and the Dead Moon Circus. Zirconia has no limits to villainy, and even eventually turns against the Amazon Trio, ordering their deaths. Hawk's Eye may be a henchman, but he has limits, and he cares deeply for his friends, Fish Eye and Tiger's Eye. He dies heroically, sacrificing himself to protect Fish Eye. Thankfully, Pegasus revives the entire Trio later and gives them back their animal forms.

Mimete Was Entertaining & Deserved More Time

Mimete is a minor villain who serves Professor Tomoe as a member of the Witches 5 during the Death Busters arc. She's a huge fan favorite because she has an adorable, gothic ballet-style character design and has a hilarious personality. Mimete is competitive, a little clueless, and eager to please.

It's Mimete's likable personality that ultimately contributes to her downfall. As a minor villain, she's no saint. She bickers with her cohorts, and brazenly flirts with Mamoru Chiba right in front of his future wife and child. But it's a huge sting when one of Mimete's supposed allies successfully plots her imprisonment, leading to her death when Pharaoh 90 blows up Mugen Academy.

An Died an Ironic Death

10 most misunderstood anime villains, ranked.

While there are anime villains who are only evil for the sake of being evil, there are some misunderstood and complex villains.

An is one of the villain duos in the Makai Tree arc of Sailor Moon R . She and her partner Ail are misguided and lost aliens who have no home planet anymore. They bring the last vestige of their home world, the Makai Tree, to earth and try to revive it with human energy.

An and Ail think that harvesting energy will heal the dying Makai Tree, but they couldn't be more mistaken. The Makai Tree is meant to be a life-giver, it's meant to sustain existence rather than drain it, and that warps everything. The Makai Tree arc comes to a tragic end when it impales An on its branches as she protects Ail from getting hurt. Luckily, she and the Makai Tree are given a second chance to do things right. An's reborn along with a baby Makai Tree sapling.

Nephrite Switched Sides

Nephrite is one of the more threatening generals that serve Queen Beryl and the Dark Kingdom in the very first Sailor Moon season. He is very handsome and has some interesting powers, compared to the rest of the generals. He has all the basic powers, like teleportation and energy draining, but he also consults the stars and the night guy for guidance.

When Nephrite bonds with Usagi Tsukino's best friend, Naru, Nephrite starts to reconsider things. The generals usually have no problem targeting humans and view them as collateral damage as they gather energy and try to find Sailor Moon. Naru's kindness reaches Nephrite's heart, though, and he switches sides to save her. Nephrite pays a terrible price for his redemption , and he doesn't leave the generals unscathed. He dies in Naru's arms from a youma-inflicted injury, and Naru is left utterly devastated.

Everything Fiore Did Was for Love

Fiore is an incredibly sympathetic figure from the start in Sailor Moon R: The Movie, The Promise of the Rose . His storyline helps explain some of Mamoru Chiba's mysterious past to Usagi and the rest of the Senshi. Shortly after Mamoru lost his whole family to a fatal accident as a child, he found a friend named Fiore.

Fiore was a lost and lonely youngster, too. Fiore and Mamoru were each other's safe place until Fiore had to leave. When Fiore finally makes his way back to Earth, he finds Mamoru. Sadly, the Kissenian Flower that's attached to Fiore like a parasite convinces him that Usagi wants to keep them apart. Fiore makes up for his mistakes tenfold when he offers his life force to heal Sailor Moon.

Sailor Moon R: The Promise of the Rose

A Mamoru's friend from the past arrives on Earth to wreak havoc and the heroes must stop them.

Director Kunihiko Ikuhara

Release Date December 5, 1994

Cast Vincent Corazza, Katie Griffin, Terri Hawkes, Aya Hisakawa, Tru Furuya, Kotono Mitsuishi

Rating TV-14

Runtime 1 hour 1 minute

Genres Comedy, Action, Adventure

Prince Saphir Tried to Warn His Brother

10 anime that remind us to appreciate our brothers.

Each anime brother is unique in personality and backstory, but the one thing they have in common is they have their sibling's back.

Prince Saphir is a villain in the Black Moon arc in Sailor Moon R and Sailor Moon Crystal , but he's only really a villain by default. He serves and supports his brother, Prince Demande, but though he has some powers of his own, he never uses them against the Sailor Senshi. Prince Saphir is the first of the Black Moon Clan to figure out that the true evil villain of the season, Wiseman, is manipulating him and his brother.

Once Prince Saphir puts together that Wiseman isn't truly wise, and that he's only using and manipulating them, Saphir tries to warn his brother. Prince Saphir pays the price of warning his brother with his life. Not only is his death cruel and senseless, he leaves behind more than one person who loves him dearly. He and Petz were in love, but they never got the chance to actualize it in a relationship, and Petz mourns him along with Prince Demande.

Sailor Moon Crystal

Usagi Tsukino is chosen to be a guardian of justice and is sent on a quest to locate a Silver Crystal before the Dark Kingdom invades the Earth.

Release Date 0000-00-00

Main Genre Animation

Seasons 4 Seasons

Main Characters Kotono Mitsuishi, Ry Hirohashi, Kenji Nojima

Production Company Kdansha, Toei Animation

Number of Episodes 41 Episodes

Sailor Saturn Sacrifices Herself to Beat Back Pharaoh 90

Sailor Saturn is one of the most powerful and revered Sailor Senshi. She wields the Silence Glaive and has death powers. Her gifts are what make her such a target to Pharaoh 90, who wants to use her as a conduit for evil. Sailor Saturn becomes possessed by Mistress 9, and it seems like all is lost with her corruption. Not even Mistress 9 can totally dominate Sailor Saturn, though, and she eventually gets ousted from the Senshi's body.

Sailor Saturn then turns her ire toward the Senshi's worst and most powerful villain yet . It's quite possible that without later power-ups, Sailor Moon wouldn't have been able to defeat Pharaoh 90 on her own. Sailor Saturn dives into the belly of the beast in one of the most epic Sailor Moon battles and sacrifices herself to destroy Pharaoh 90 from the inside out. Though defeating Pharaoh 90 saps all of Saturn's life force, Sailor Moon brings Sailor Saturn back, reborn as a little baby.

The Inner Senshi Get Picked Off One by One

20 anime where everybody dies.

Anime is certainly not exempt from featuring death, so which anime series have most, if not all, of their characters killed off?

The finale at the end of the Season One Dark Kingdom arc was so tragic that parts of it got censored in the first American dub. Sailor Moon and her four Inner Senshi (Sailor Mars, Sailor Venus, Sailor Jupiter, Sailor Mercury) all travel to the Dark Kingdom to have a final showdown with Queen Beryl. Before they can even get to Queen Beryl, she sends her worst youma to defeat them, the Doom and Gloom Girls.

The Doom and Gloom Girls prove to be too much for the Inner Senshi, and they kill off Sailor Mercury, Sailor Mars, Sailor Jupiter, and Sailor Venus one by one. Each one tries to console Sailor Moon as they die, giving their lives to protect her. Sailor Moon cannot believe her eyes, and her heart shatters as each friend slips through her fingers. It would have been just too heartbreaking if they weren't resurrected after Sailor Moon defeats Super Beryl by herself.

Tuxedo Mask Dies Protecting Sailor Moon

Sailor Moon crushes on Tuxedo Mask all through the first season. She's taken by his handsomeness, his kindness, and his selfless protection and encouragement. Once their memories unlock and they both realize that they were in love before in a past life, history tragically repeats itself. Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask were reborn on Earth after they were killed in the fall of the Silver Millennium on the Moon Kingdom.

Once Tuxedo Mask recovers his past life memories, he's mortally wounded and Queen Beryl abducts him and brainwashes him into fighting Sailor Moon. Tuxedo Mask fights the brainwashing valiantly, and the moment he breaks through her hold, he dies protecting Sailor Moon from Queen Beryl's fatal attack. He's resurrected along with the Inner Senshi after Sailor Moon defeats Super Beryl.

Sailor Moon Spends All Her Energy Stopping a Comet

Sailor Moon, Tuxedo Mask , and the Inner Senshi are stuck on a comet hurtling right toward Earth at the end of Sailor Moon R: The Movie, The Promise of the Rose . Sailor Moon transforms into her strongest form at the time, Princess Serenity, and wields the Silver Crystal, trying to arrest the comet. All of Princess Serenity's strength is still not enough.

Tuxedo Mask and the Inner Senshi lend their energy to Princess Serenity, bolstering her as she slowly chips away at the comet. Just as the comet starts to slow it's hurtling and Earth is safe, Princess Serenity's eyes go blank. She falls lifeless into Tuxedo Mask's arms. The Inner Senshi cry in disbelief and mourning. Fiore comes back and to make things right, he trades his life force for Sailor Moon, bringing her back to life.

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Blackout in central Moscow: ministers sit in dark during meeting with Putin

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

There has been a blackout in Moskva-City (Moscow City), a business quarter of the Russian capital; due to this, two ministers have been sitting in the dark during the meeting with Vladimir Putin , the Russian President.

Source : Kremlin-aligned news outlets RBC , RIA Novosti , and TASS

Details: As RBC states, three towers of Moskva-City have been cut off the grid, including the IQ quarter complex where three ministries are located, including the Ministry of Economic Development, Ministry of Industry and Trade, and Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media.

It was obvious that the ministries did not have electricity during the livestream of the meeting with Putin. It was clear that Maksim Reshetnikov, Minister of Economic Development, and Denis Manturov, Minister of Industry and Trade, were sitting in the dark.

Putin suggested that Reshetnikov, who was in the Moskva-City at the time, report on investments, and expressed his hope that being left without electricity would not interfere with the meeting.

However, the ministers had the power back before Reshetnikov’s report started.

photo:  RBC

According to the information provided by RIA Novosti, only one tower of the Moskva-City is still without electricity. As per the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the power in that tower is back already.

TASS reported, citing emergency services, that a power surge was the reason for the blackout in the IQ quarter; approximately 100 people have been evacuated from the building.

Previously : Russia has been aggressively destroying energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine since 10 October. Due to this, many regions have stabilisation and emergency blackouts.

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Professional Goalie Mask and Helmet Art by EYECANDYAIR

"SPARTAK" Authentic game mask commissioned and worn by HC Spartak Moscow goaltender Mike Murphy during the 2012-2013 season Custom airbrush painted by Steve Nash on a Sportmask goaliemask

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Blackout Disrupts Moscow After Fire in Old Power Station

By Erin E. Arvedlund

• May 26, 2005

MOSCOW, May 25 - The most serious blackout in recent memory struck Moscow on Wednesday, disrupting the lives of nearly two million residents in large sections of the city and outlying areas and stranding people in subways, elevators and trains. By late Wednesday evening, electricity still had not been fully restored.

The power failure struck at just after 11 a.m. amid record high pre-summer temperatures of 86 degrees. A fire in a transformer set the blackout in motion.

"There was a fire and explosion" at a local southeastern substation, Viktor Khristenko, Russia's minister of energy and industry, told news agencies. "Several transformers were destroyed."

Officials said the underlying problem was an aging, Brezhnev-era infrastructure overburdened by high demand in the early heat wave.

Russia's capital is paying a price in power failures for its booming economy and newfound prosperity. Numerous new high-rise office buildings, expansive malls and consumer goods stores, many equipped with air-conditioning -- a rarity in the Soviet era -- have gone up in recent years, heavily taxing the creaking electricity grid.

The minister noted that the substation was built in 1963, and ruled out a terrorist attack. "According to the information I have, there is no evidence of terrorism," he said. "Most likely the problem was old equipment."

President Vladimir V. Putin chided the head of the state electricity monopoly for not paying enough attention to the power grids.

But it was Anatoly B. Chubais, chief executive of Unified Energy Systems, the country's electricity giant, who came under particular scrutiny.

"Mr. Chubais is expected to be questioned on Thursday and could face criminal charges," Natalya Vishnyakova, a spokeswoman for the prosecutor's office, told the state-controlled NTV television channel. Mr. Chubais, in turn, appeared on national television to apologize to the Russian people.

• International

November 23, 2022 Russia-Ukraine news

By Kathleen Magramo , Sana Noor Haq, Aditi Sangal and Adrienne Vogt , CNN

Our live coverage of Russia's war in Ukraine has moved here.

Ukrainian President Zelensky urges UNSC to support "peace formula" following missile strikes

From CNN's Heather Law and Richard Roth  

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, urging the group to support the Ukrainian peace formula following a wave of Russian missile strikes that the president dubbed "the Russian formula of terror."

"I emphasize yet again: it is high time to support the Ukrainian formula of peace. There should be no room for terror in the world," Zelensky said. 

Zelensky emphasized the need for "modern and effective air and missile defense systems" after detailing the series of Russian air strikes that destroyed critical facilities, including energy infrastructure, residential housing, and a hospital, where a newborn baby in the hospital's maternity ward was killed. 

This large-scale assault on energy infrastructure also led to widespread energy blackouts in Ukraine and neighboring Moldova, an act Zelensky said was "analogous to using weapons of mass destruction."

"When the temperature outside drops below zero and tens of millions of people are left without electricity, heat and water as a result of Russian missiles hitting energy facilities, that is an obvious crime against humanity," Zelensky stated. 

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield was one of several representatives to reiterate their support for Ukraine, with emphasis on condemning Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. 

"Putin's motive could not be more clear and more cold-blooded. He is clearly — clearly —weaponizing winter to inflict immense suffering on the Ukrainian people. He has decided that if he can't seize Ukraine by force, he will try to freeze the country into submission," Greenfield noted.

We can't continue "counting on good luck" to avoid nuclear accident at Zaporizhzhia, IAEA director says

From CNN's Radina Gigova

Negotiations with Kyiv and Moscow on the establishment of a safety zone around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant continue — but in the meantime the director of the UN nuclear watchdog is warning about potential consequences.

"We cannot continue counting on good luck to avoid a nuclear accident," International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi told CNN on Wednesday.

Grossi said negotiations are "moving forward" but "this is an active combat zone, therefore getting to agreed parameters for this is not such an easy thing to do."

The IAEA director said he met with a Russian delegation in Turkey earlier Wednesday and spoke with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Tuesday.

"I am having consultations with both. I would not agree with the assessment that we are not making any progress, I think we are," Grossi said. "Of course, we are talking about something which is very difficult. This is war. This is real war and the protection zone that I am proposing is precisely on the front line, on the line were both adversaries are in contact."

"But we are moving forward I believe, and I hope that episodes as traumatic as the ones this past weekend may paradoxically help us move forward, in the sense that people need to realize that we cannot continue counting on good luck to avoid a nuclear accident," he said. 

When asked who is "playing with fire," referencing Grossi's own remarks from Sunday following powerful explosions that rocked the nuclear power plant Saturday and Sunday, Grossi said "it is very difficult for us to identify from inside the plant who is doing that," adding "by the way, our main goal is to get this to stop, not to get into a game of attribution." 

Later on Wednesday, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant "once again lost access to external electricity" and was instead relying on its emergency diesel generators for the power it needs for reactor cooling and other essential functions, IAEA said in a statement. 

Biden administration condemns Russian strikes on Ukraine's power infrastructure

From CNN's Betsy Klein

The Biden administration on Wednesday condemned Russian strikes on power generating infrastructure across Ukraine. 

National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement that Russia “is increasingly turning to horrific attacks against the Ukrainian people with punishing strikes damaging energy grid infrastructure, and deliberately doing so as winter approaches.”

Watson said that the strikes “do not appear aimed at any military purpose,” but “instead further the goal of the Putin regime to increase the suffering and death” of Ukrainians. 

The US also warned that the actions show “Russia is willing to increase the risk of a nuclear safety incident that could not only further harm Ukraine, but affect the entire region as well.” 

Watson’s statement touted an additional $400 million security assistance package for Ukraine announced earlier Wednesday. 

CNN’s Yulia Keseiva reported moments ago that power has been restored to almost 90% of the Ukrainian city of Lviv, officials said, following the Russian air strikes that knocked out power to much of the country.

Almost all power restored to Ukrainian city of Lviv and other regions hit by Russian strikes

From CNN’s Yulia Keseiva in Kyiv

Power has been restored to almost 90% of the Ukrainian city of Lviv, officials said Wednesday, following another barrage of Russian strikes which knocked out electricity throughout much of the country. 

In a telegram statement, Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi said that scheduled blackouts, which have become regular during the invasion, will continue due to country’s war damaged energy infrastructure, “so some houses may be without electricity.” Water and heating have also been restored and all city services are working, he added.

The situation in Odesa is similar with water and heat restored, according to Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.

“Power supply — the region is supplied, consumers are being connected,” he said. Electricity in the Zaporizhzhia region has also been restored.

According to the Ternopil region military administration, the power system there is “being stabilized” with customers “gradually being connected to the grid.”

About one third of the region has electricity with critical infrastructure facilities being connected to the power supply first.

UN nuclear watchdog: "Increasingly precarious" nuclear safety situation at Zaporizhzhia power plant

From CNN's Radina Gigova in London 

Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant lost access to external electricity again on Wednesday and is relying on emergency diesel generators, the International Atomic Energy Agency said, warning of the "increasingly precarious and challenging nuclear safety and security situation" at the plant. 

The team of IAEA experts present at the power plant said it lost off-site power at 3:30 p.m. local time Wednesday when it was fully disconnected from the grid, "following reports of widespread military action targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure," IAEA said in a statement.

"Initially all the site’s 20 diesel generators started operating automatically, and now eight of them are supplying the site with back-up electricity needed for all safety related equipment. The other 12 diesel generators are in stand-by mode," IAEA said. 

"The IAEA team also reported that the plant’s operating personnel were performing all activities according to procedures for a loss of off-site power event and that the six reactors were in a safe and stable state," IAEA said. "The two reactors that have been in a hot shutdown mode to provide the plant and the nearby town of Enerhodar with steam and heating will be prepared for cooling down. The four others remain in cold shutdown," it added.

Some context: The Zaporizhzhia plant has been disconnected from the national grid several times during the fighting in Ukraine, "most recently in early November when it took two days to restore external power supplies," the agency said.

IAEA also said it has received information from Ukraine’s national operator Energoatom that “due to a decrease in the frequency in the power system of Ukraine" all power units at two other plants — the Rivne Nuclear Power Plant and the Khmelnytskyy Nuclear Power Plants — were automatically disconnected as part of emergency protection.

"The need for secure off-site power supply from the grid for all nuclear sites is one of the seven indispensable pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during an armed conflict," IAEA said. 

At least 7 dead from Russian strikes across Kyiv region, officials say

At least seven people were killed and 36 were wounded following a fresh wave of Russian strikes across Ukraine, according to officials. 

Four died in the region of Kyiv, the head of Kyiv region military administration, Oleksii Kuleba, said in a Telegram statement . In the city of Kyiv, three people were killed Wednesday, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a post on Telegram . 

German chancellor says country's energy security for this winter is “guaranteed”

From CNN's Sugam Pokharel in London 

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Wednesday that Germany’s energy security for this winter season is “guaranteed” amid Europe’s energy crisis triggered by Russia’s war in Ukraine. 

“It is guaranteed because the German government took a courageous turn in direction and because households and companies across the country save energy,” Scholz told German lower house of parliament Bundestag in Berlin. 

“Doing nothing would come at a very high price. That’s why we are doing away with the failings of an energy and trade policy that has led us into one-sided dependence on Russia and China in particular,” he added. 

Scholz also said that he shares the goal with French President Emmanuel Macron of a geopolitical Europe that is “significantly more capable of acting.”

UN Security Council to meet about Ukraine following Zelensky request

From CNN's Richard Roth

The UN Security Council will hold an urgent meeting Wednesday on Russia's latest strikes across Ukraine on the request of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 

The meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET.

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Travel Pillows for Airplanes, FSA HSA Eligible Approved Travel Accessories for Long Flight, Car Travel Pillow for Kids, Eye Mask for Sleeping Airplane, Dark Grey

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• 【The Next Generation of Airplane Travel Pillow】 Patent authorized (U.S. Utility Patent App. No.18/381,632), this travel pillow is innovatively designed with soft padding and an effective eye mask.
• 【Firm Support & Adjustable】 The eye mask is velcro, you can adjust your height and tight to where it fits best for you. Helps maintain your head in a good posture while sleeping, reducing neck and shoulder pain, and preventing awkward bobbing or flopping.
• 【Make Sleeping More Comfortable】The pillow is designed to provide maximum comfort and support to your neck and head and features a soft cushy eye mask adding extra relaxation, making it perfect for long journeys.
• 【Small and Portable】This travel pillow's small and portable design allows for easy folding and carrying in a laptop bag or backpack, perfect for use on flights and road trips.
• 【High-Quality Material & Durable】The pillow is made of high-quality materials and is durable. Velcro material used on the outside allows you to adjust it for a good fit while the interior of it is made of smooth cooling material that gives you a wonderful sensation when it touches your head.
• 【Travel Essentials】This airplane pillow is ideal for long flights and Car, Road Trip, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and energized. For family members or friends who are avid travelers or frequently on business trips, a travel pillow makes an excellent gift choice.

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PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)

OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 requires textiles-based products to be tested against a list of 1,000+ chemicals, to limit those which may be harmful to human health. Certification focus: #ProductSafety and #ChemicalsUsed.

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