Traveler's guide to selecting the best silk sleep mask for long flights

Ah, long flights. The allure of distant destinations often comes with long stretches in tight aeroplane seats, fighting against the glare of cabin lights, the occasional snorer and the constant hum of the engines. Getting quality sleep on a flight can feel like a distant dream, but there's one small, luxurious item that can make a world of difference: a silk sleep mask.

However, not all silk sleep masks are created equal. With so many options, how do you choose the perfect one? Fear not—this guide will provide all the details you need to find the best silk sleep mask for your travel adventures and get a good night's rest on the go.

Why silk sleep masks?

Before we get into the details of selecting the best sleep mask, let's discuss why silk is the MVP of eye masks. Ultra-soft and skin-friendly, silk is a world away from cotton or synthetic fabrics. It's naturally hypoallergenic, so it's a good choice for people with sensitive skin. Plus, silk helps maintain your skin's moisture, which is a huge win, considering airplane cabins are basically deserts in disguise. No more waking up to dry, irritated eyes or creased skin! Silk sleep masks are incredibly soft, providing gentle pressure that effectively blocks unwanted light, helping to combat jet lag and ensuring sweet dreams even when you’re miles above the earth. Opt for a mask made from breathable materials to enhance your comfort throughout the flight.

How to choose the best sleep mask

Not all silk sleep masks are crafted the same. To make sure you're getting the best one, consider these key factors:

1. Material quality

The first thing you want to check is the type of silk used. Mulberry silk is considered the gold standard; it's the highest-quality silk available and is prized for its smoothness and durability. Look for an eye mask with a momme weight of 19 or higher. (Momme is the silk equivalent of thread count—the higher the number, the better the quality.)

2. Fit and comfort

You might have the world's softest silk, but if your sleep mask doesn't fit properly, it will do more harm than good. Your slip sleep mask should fit just tight enough not to feel loose around your eyes or temples. Adjustable straps are a must—they allow you to customize the fit so it's secure but not constricting. Elastic bands are common, but some people find them too tight over long periods, so consider options with velcro or sliding adjustments. Unlike other masks that may irritate or feel uncomfortable, a well-fitting eye mask provides total darkness and a super soft touch, enhancing your sleep quality by ensuring no light disrupts your rest. This perfect fit not only blocks out light effectively but also ensures comfort throughout the night, making it ideal for uninterrupted sleep.

3. Light blocking

The whole idea behind a sleep mask is to block light, so make sure it gets the job done. Look for contoured masks that wrap around your nose and prevent light exposure. Bonus points for a blackout eye mask that offers complete darkness—these are perfect for day flights or when the cabin crew flips on those harsh overhead lights mid-flight.

4. Breathability

No one wants to wake up sweating under their sleep mask. Silk is naturally breathable, but some masks have additional layers or padding that might trap heat. If you're someone who runs warm, opt for a single-layer silk mask or one specifically designed to be lightweight and cooling.

5. Portability and durability

A good travel sleep mask should be easy to pack and durable enough to withstand being tossed in your carry-on. Most silk masks include a small carrying pouch, so you can keep them clean and easier to find in your bag.

6. Extra features

Some silk sleep masks offer bonus features, like a lavender sachet for relaxing aromatherapy, memory foam that moulds to your face, or even earplugs for total sensory blackout. These add-ons aren't essential, but they can improve a good night's sleep or help you fall asleep faster.

Tips for using your sleep mask while travelling

Use your silk sleep mask effectively on your next flight with these quick, easy hacks for ultimate in-journey relaxation:

• Combine it with earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones: Block out all distractions for better sleep quality.

• Use a hydrating eye cream: Prep your skin before putting on the mask to combat the dry cabin air.

• Keep it clean: If you travel frequently, make sure you wash your Drowsy silk sleep mask regularly to avoid breakouts or irritation. Most silk masks need to be hand-washed with a gentle detergent like Drowsy's Deep Shine Silk Mask Detergent.

Top picks for travel-friendly silk sleep masks

When choosing a silk eye mask, look for high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and thoughtful design. Look for options made with 100% pure mulberry silk, which is soft and gentle against your skin. Travel sleep masks should have adjustable straps for a customizable fit around your head shape that ensures total light blockage.

Effective sleep masks like these are designed to create an optimal sleep environment by conforming closely to your face, minimizing any gaps that could let light in. The best sleep mask options will often feature an eye mask design that covers enough of your face to maintain darkness, enhancing your ability to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep longer, even when faced with the challenges of travel.

At Drowsy, we specialise in silk sleep masks designed for travellers. Our Drowsy sleep masks combine premium materials with a focus on comfort and durability, ensuring that you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go. With attention to detail and an emphasis on portability, our masks are the perfect travel companion.

Choose from a range of elegant colours to suit your style. From timeless classics like the Black Jade Silk Sleep Mask to softer looks with the Dusty Gold Silk Sleep Mask. Feeling bold? Go for a statement piece like the Purple Martini Silk Sleep Mask, which adds a pop of vibrancy to your travel essentials. Happy travels!