I'll cut to the chase: the Ostrichpillow Eye Mask is the best I've tried. It's made from plush 3D moulded foam that sits flush to the contours of your face, which is both seriously comfy, and excellent at blocking all the light out. It doesn't press against your eyes to achieve that total blackout either: the eye cups are moulded outwards, so you can easily open your eyes while wearing it. Which is an entirely more pleasant situation for sleeping.
You can pick one up for GBP £38 / USD $45 / AUD $66 direct from Ostrichpillow. That slightly higher price is, in my opinion, well worth it if you're a sensitive sleeper... or need to buy a Christmas gift for someone who is.
If the name is ringing a bell, this is the same company that brought us that bizarre 'Napping Pillow' you pull over your head when you fancy a daytime doze. Honestly, weird looks aside, I'm on board with that design too.
The eye mask is going to get you fewer funny looks around the Christmas tree though, so let's get back to that. The design comprises six layers that balance thickness, density and cushiony softness to deliver a comfy, breathable, blackout experience. The moulding is designed to work for a wide variety of face shapes and sizes, and a thick, easily adjustable head strap keeps it securely in place all night. Finally, it's completely machine washable, and comes with a handy storage and transport pouch. There's a 100 day returns period and 2 year warranty for added peace of mind.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Ruth is a lifestyle journalist specialising in sleep and wellbeing. She has tested more mattresses than her small flat can handle and will talk at length about them to anyone who shows even a passing interest, and has had to implement a one-in-one-out pillow policy for fear of getting smothered in the night. As well as following all the industry trends and advancements in the mattress and bedding world, she regularly speaks to certified experts to delve into the science behind a great night's sleep, and offer you advice to help you get there. She's currently Sleep Editor on Tom's Guide and TechRadar, and prior to that ran the Outdoors and Wellness channels on T3 (now covered by Matt Kollat and Beth Girdler-Maslen respectively).
-
I added Cossack Squats to my leg workouts — and here’s why you should too
How to build unstoppable leg strength and loosen your hips with the Cossack Squat
By Lucy Miller Published
-
A Pilates instructor says this is the five-minute routine you need for your back
Tight and tense after a long day of sitting? Unwind with these five exercises
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Manta SOUND Sleep Mask review: this game-changing mask for side sleepers is my favourite gadget of 2024
Enjoy soothing sounds, total blackout, and long-lasting battery life in one very comfy package
By Joanna Ebsworth Published
-
I tried a cocooning compression experience and it’s the most relaxed I’ve ever felt
Cocooning might be my new obsession – here’s what it is and what it’s like
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
This sleep hack can cut down your nightly bathroom visits – it’s not what you’d think
Cut down your nightly bathroom trip by trying this easy sleep hack
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Nectar’s best memory foam mattress is $837 off in this Black Friday deal
Get up to 50% off mattresses and accessories in the Nectar Black Friday deals
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
I tried the TikTok-approved eye roll sleep hack and I’ve never fallen back to sleep quicker
This eye roll sleep hack could help you get back to sleep when you wake in the night
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Eating this fruit before bed can help you sleep better – but expert opinions are divided
TikTok strikes again with its avocado sleep hack – but does it actually work?
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
I tried the Therabody SleepMask and have never felt so relaxed
Therabody’s new SleepMask massages the eyes and promises better sleep
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Best Christmas gifts 2024: wellness, fragrances, grooming and more
If you're struggling to find the perfect gift, you've come to the right place
By Lizzie Wilmot Last updated