Mack's Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs
Earplugs that sit over your ear, not in it
Moldable silicone putty earplugs that seal the outer ear rather than going inside it. Waterproof for swimming and bathing, sold as a value pack of two 6-pair packs.
Our take
Foam earplugs block more noise. Side sleepers know the catch, though. Lie on your side and the pillow can press the plug further into your ear.
These are soft silicone putty you press over the opening of your ear instead of into the canal. Many side sleepers find that more comfortable in in a noisy hotel, a hostel dorm or an overnight train. They're waterproof too, so the same pack works for swimming. You give up two things. They block less sound than foam pushed deep in, and the putty picks up lint and hair, so each pair lasts only a few nights before it gets dirty and loses its stick.
If you sleep on your side and foam plugs bother you, get these. It's a value pack of two 6-pair packs, so you've got spares for a long trip. Check the price before you book.
Who it’s for
Side sleepers and light sleepers in noisy rooms, plus swimmers who want to keep water out of their ears.
Skip it if
Skip it if you want the most noise blocking or one pair for the whole trip. Foam earplugs block more sound and reusable earplugs last longer.
Mack's Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs: questions people ask
Are silicone or foam earplugs better for sleeping?
Foam usually blocks more noise. Silicone putty sits over the ear opening, which a lot of side sleepers find more comfortable.
Can you reuse silicone earplugs?
For a few nights, yes. Once they pick up lint or stop sticking, swap in a fresh pair.
Can silicone earplugs be used for swimming?
Yes. They're waterproof and sold for swimming and bathing as well as sleep.
Where we recommend it
More in Sleep & Comfort
Trtl Pillow
For travelers who hate bulky U-shaped pillows, but if you sleep with your head tipped forward it may not help much.
MZOO Sleep Mask
For light sleepers on planes and in bright hotel rooms, though the foam takes more space than a flat mask.
Mack's Blackout Soft Foam Earplugs, 7-pair
For anyone sleeping in a room they didn't pick, though foam plugs can feel tight if you've never worn them.
Prices change often — the price on the retailer’s page is the one you pay.