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Best Sleep Mask for Shift Workers in 2026? Let’s Find Out!
Best Sleep Mask for Shift Workers in 2026? Let’s Find Out!
Writtten and Edited by: Benjamin White
March 10, 2025
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If you’re a shift worker, you don’t always get to sleep when it’s dark outside. Sometimes you’re trying to sneak a quick nap in your car… but daylight is blasting through the windows. Maybe you find a quiet chair somewhere to rest, but the lights in the room make it almost impossible to fall asleep. And even when you finally get home, the sun is still shining through the window, keeping your brain wide awake.
That’s where a sleep mask might help.
So I picked up two popular sleep masks online that claim to completely block out light, stay comfortable even for side sleepers, and help you sleep anywhere. I tested them in several real-life situations to see which one actually performs the best.
Let’s get into it.
If you want to see the full video of me testing these sleep masks, check out the video here:
First up is the FreshMe Cotton Sleep Mask, which costs $24.49 on Amazon at the time of filming.
It’s made from premium grey cotton and features an ergonomic design around the nose that’s meant to help block out light. The mask uses an adjustable Velcro strap, allowing you to customize the fit for comfort.
FreshMe also includes a pair of earplugs, which can help block out ambient noise if you’re trying to sleep in a noisy environment.
The company claims this mask is perfect for side sleepers, so that’s something I made sure to test.
Next up is the Drowsy Sleep Mask, which costs $79 on Amazon at the time of filming.
This mask is made from 100% pure mulberry silk and has large, cloud-like padding that gives it a much thicker feel compared to the FreshMe mask.
It also features a wide Velcro strap so it can be adjusted for different head sizes. Like the FreshMe mask, Drowsy claims their mask provides 100% light blockage, which we’ll also be putting to the test.
Bed Test (Natural Light)
First, I tested the masks in my bedroom with natural light coming through the window. This is probably the most common situation where someone would use a sleep mask.
FreshMe Sleep Mask
When I first put the FreshMe mask on, I had it a little too tight around my forehead. After loosening it slightly, it became very comfortable. It almost felt like it was just resting on my face.
As far as light blocking goes, it did a pretty good job, but I could still see some light coming through around the nose area. So it wasn’t completely black.
Comfort: 5/5
Light Blockage: 4/5
Drowsy Sleep Mask
The Drowsy mask had a similar experience when putting it on. At first, it felt tight around my temples. Once I loosened it, the fit improved.
The material feels extremely soft to the touch, but on my face it didn’t feel quite as comfortable as the FreshMe mask. The padding is thicker and more “poofy,” which some people may like, but it felt a little bulky to me.
Where it really stood out was light blocking. This mask blocked the light extremely well.
Comfort: 3/5
Light Blockage: 5/5
Side Sleeping Test
Next, I tested both masks while sleeping on my side, since many reviewers mention that masks tend to shift or ride up in that position.
FreshMe Sleep Mask
The FreshMe mask stayed very comfortable while lying on my side. It also did a better job blocking out light in this position compared to when I was laying on my back.
Comfort: 5/5
Light Blockage: 5/5
Drowsy Sleep Mask
With the Drowsy mask, when I placed my arm under my head, the nose section of the mask would lift slightly.
After tightening the strap so the mask fit more snugly, it stayed in place and blocked out the light effectively.
Car Test
Next, I tested both masks inside a car during the daytime, since sometimes people try to take quick naps in their car during breaks or long drives.
FreshMe Sleep Mask
Leaning back in the seat, the mask was still comfortable to wear. It also blocked out light fairly well, though there was still a small amount of light coming from the bottom of the mask.
Light Blockage: 4.5/5
Drowsy Sleep Mask
When positioned correctly with the nose section lined up properly, the Drowsy mask did an excellent job blocking out light.
It was completely black, even with daylight coming through the windows.
Light Blockage: 5/5
Office Test
Finally, I tested the masks in an office environment, since sometimes people try to sneak a quick nap in a quiet room or office chair.
FreshMe Sleep Mask
Leaning back in an office chair, the FreshMe mask still allowed a small but noticeable amount of light coming from the bottom.
Light Blockage: 4/5
Drowsy Sleep Mask
The Drowsy mask performed extremely well here. On the first try, without needing to adjust it, it blocked out almost all the light.
There was only a very tiny sliver of light near the bottom, but it wasn’t noticeable enough to be distracting.
Light Blockage: 5/5
Final Results
Overall, I’d say the FreshMe Sleep Mask was the best value.
It’s very comfortable, stays in place even when side sleeping, and does a solid job blocking out light. Considering the price, it’s hard to beat.
The Drowsy Sleep Mask also performed well, especially when it comes to blocking light. But for someone with a bigger head like me, it can be tricky to find the perfect fit. When it’s snug enough to block light completely, it can feel a little tight around the temples. When it’s looser, some light can sneak in.
Still, if your main priority is maximum darkness, the Drowsy mask definitely delivers.
✅ Best Overall Value: FreshMe Cotton Sleep Mask
🌑 Best for Maximum Light Blocking: Drowsy Sleep Mask
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Masks
Do sleep masks actually help you sleep better?
Yes, sleep masks can help improve sleep by blocking out light, which signals to your brain that it’s time to rest. Light exposure — even small amounts — can interfere with melatonin production, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. A good sleep mask creates a darker environment so your body can relax and fall asleep more easily.
Are sleep masks safe to wear all night?
For most people, yes. Sleep masks are generally safe to wear throughout the night as long as they fit comfortably and don’t put pressure on your eyes. Many people use them regularly when traveling, working night shifts, or sleeping during the day.
If you’re a side sleeper, choosing a mask that stays in place without pressing too hard on your face can make a big difference in comfort.
What should you look for in a good sleep mask?
There are a few things that make a sleep mask work well:
- Light blocking ability – The mask should block light around the nose and edges.
- Comfort – Soft materials and a proper fit make it easier to wear for long periods.
- Adjustable strap – Helps you get the right fit without being too tight.
- Side sleeper compatibility – Some masks shift when you lie on your side.
The best sleep mask is one that stays comfortable and blocks light consistently in different sleeping positions.
