Choosing between sleep masks and blackout curtains for better sleep

Let's be honest: getting a good night's sleep isn't always as simple as just lying down and closing your eyes. From noisy neighbours having late-night chats to that cheeky streetlamp shining directly into your window, there are plenty of obstacles that can interfere with your rest. For many of us, unwanted light can be the biggest challenge. But should you opt for a sleep mask or go all-in with blackout curtains? Let's break it down and figure out what works best for you (and your wallet).

Why darkness is crucial for sleep

Before we get into the details, it's worth understanding why darkness matters so much. Our bodies are wired to follow the sun. When it's dark, your brain produces melatonin, the hormone that says, "Hey, time to sleep!". In scientific terms, this is also known as the circadian rhythm, which controls our body's sleep cycle. But even the tiniest bit of light (like the blue light from your phone screen) can mess with this process. Here's where sleep masks and blackout curtains come in handy.

The case for sleep masks

At first glance, sleep masks might seem too simple to really do the job. In reality, they're effective and pretty underrated. Here are some reasons sleep masks are worth the hype:

• Portable: Heading on a weekend trip? Stuck on a long-haul flight? Sleep masks have your back. They're easy to throw in your bag and don't weigh you down.

• Affordable: If you're not keen on spending a small fortune to block out light, a sleep mask is the way to go. You can snag one for less than a takeaway meal.

• Customisable: Whether you like silky smooth, soft and fluffy, or even a bit of cooling gel action, there's a mask for you. Bonus: some even have fun patterns if you're feeling fancy.

• Comfortable for most sleepers: A well-designed mask can rest gently on your face without pressing too hard, making it a good option for people who toss and turn.

That being said, sleep masks are not perfect. Waking up to find your eye mask halfway across the room because you ripped it off in your sleep can be a bit annoying. Plus, if you're not into the sensation of something on your face, they might take a bit of getting used to.

The case for blackout curtains

If you're serious about creating a proper sleep sanctuary, these might be your answer. High-quality blackout curtains can totally transform your room for complete light blocking. Here are some of the benefits of blackout curtains for those having trouble sleeping:

• Full-room coverage: Not a fan of having things strapped to your face? Blackout curtains can help darken the entire room instead. It's like your bedroom gets its own night mode, blocking natural and artificial light exposure.

• Cosy vibes: Blackout curtains add a certain cosiness to your space. Some even help block out noise and keep the room temperature steady, which is a win-win.

• Perfect for families: Do you have kids who refuse to sleep because "the sun's still up"? Blackout curtains can be a lifesaver during bright summer evenings.

• Low maintenance: Blackout curtains offer complete peace of mind. Once they're up, you can pretty much forget about them. No nightly adjustments or worries—they just do their job quietly in the background.

On the downside, they're a bit of an investment, both in terms of money and effort. Installing them in your sleeping space can be more work than just throwing on a sleep mask. And let's not even start on trying to match them to your existing decor.

Sleep masks vs blackout curtains: which one's right for you

So, which should you pick? Honestly, it depends on what you're after.

Go for a sleep mask if:

• You're on a budget and want something quick and easy to fall asleep.

• You need something portable for travel.

• You don't mind wearing something on your face.

Choose blackout curtains if:

• You want a permanent solution for a darker sleep environment.

• You're sensitive to sound or heat as well as ambient light.

• You're looking to improve sleep quality for the entire family.

Can't choose? Do both! It'll be like having a sleep fortress. Blackout curtains set the stage, and a sleep mask gives you an extra layer of darkness. It's a bit of overkill, sure, but if it works, it works!

Choosing the right sleep aid for restorative sleep

At the end of the day, there's no "one-size-fits-all" answer to the sleep mask vs blackout curtain debate. It's all about finding what suits your lifestyle and makes you feel most comfortable. Whatever you choose, the goal is the same—better sleep quality in complete darkness.

If you're leaning towards a sleep mask, why not give Drowsy sleep masks a try? They're designed with luxurious materials, a snug fit, and total light-blocking in mind. Choose your favourite colour and design, like the velvety La Vie En Rouge Silk Sleep Eye Mask, the sophisticated Moonlight Shadow Silk Sleep Eye Mask, or the vibrant Summer Coral Silk Silk Sleep Eye Mask, and enjoy sweet dreams!