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Mar 24, 2024

28 Things For Anyone Who's Still Awake At 3 A.M. Chanting "Go To Sleep"

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

If you've ever checked the time on your phone and started to cry in frustration...this list is for you.

BuzzFeed Staff

They dim 50-80% of the light, so you can still tell that your devices are still actually *on* and functioning. You can always double them up to completely block out the light source if you'd like (many reviewers do this) or buy the stronger **full black-out** edition!

Promising review: "This is the best thing you never knew you needed. I own a digital clock with the numbers displayed in red LED light, and every night I've blocked the light with a cover so it doesn't shine in my eyes as I sleep. Silly I know, but I like my room pitch black and cave-like. On a whim I bought this product. OH MY GOD! Game-changer!! For the first night EVER I didn't have to cover the clock display before I went to bed!! I had no idea how big a difference this little dimmer could make, but I'm more than pleased with the result. I can still see the time display just fine, but now my room is a happy cave! Some commenters argue you could get the same effect using electrical tape, regular tape covered in Sharpie, etc., but true to the name of these products if you're looking for something to DIM, then this is for you. Also the product is easy to remove and doesn't leave a sticky residue at all, which can't be said for most tapes. I did notice a slight lag in response when I covered my TV LED sensor, so if you're trying to block something that actually senses inputs I would maybe not suggest this. Other than that, excellent product!" —Amazon Customer

Get a sheet of over 100 dimming stickers (in multiple sizes and shapes) from Amazon for $4.49.

It's available in three sizes and and 10 weights, so whether you're looking for one for a kid, for yourself, or to use in a king or queen–sized bed with your partner, there's an option for you!

Promising review: "This is the BEST purchase I have ever made. I have been an insomniac for years and have never successfully been treated. Even with many doctors' appointments and medications — NOTHING worked! On top of that I have RLS (Restless Leg Syndrome). I thought I would give this blanket a try. This product is not advertised for RLS but it absolutely should be! I have had my blanket for three days and I have been basically sleeping in a coma-like state!!! It is the soundest and best sleep I have ever had in my life. And the comforting weight on my legs and boy just eases those RLS symptoms and drifts me off to a sound sleep!!! It is so hard to describe the feeling of peace and comfort the minute you lay it on your body. I actually ordered the 15-pound blanket for my weight and height because I wanted the extra weight just in case. I decided to go ahead an order a second one if I have an emergency situation and need even more weight on my legs. This product is phenomenal to say the least!!!" —DeAnn Barksdale

Get it from Amazon for $29.90+ (available in 24 colors and prints).

If you're really worried about overheating, it also comes in a cooling version made out of Tencel.

I have this in the cooling version (in the color "avocado") and let's just say I've used it quite a bit in recent times. The large knit style is super chic, and the organic cotton is breathable (and there's nothing in it to create the weight *other* than cotton, so no uncomfy glass beads). I *love* it, and it's actually extremely cute, looking like a regular old fancy blanket! It's heavy, but still I take it from bed to couch and back to bed all the time as I WFH. It doesn't overheat on the couch (thanks to the fabric and the "holes" in the large knit), but provides a pleasant weight as I watch TV or work. And when it's layered over my duvet, it keeps me extra cozy and warm.

Promising review: "I love this napper a little too much. I carry it up and down stairs all day as I move between the bed and couch for crafting, reading, etc. I like to grasp onto something when I sleep (usually the edge of the pillowcase), so the loops are awesome for tucking in my fingers and toes. Unlike another weighted blanket I own, the napper is stylish so I don't mind if it's out in the living room, and I can wash it, a huge deal given how often it's used. It's a bit of a pain to dry (it took three cycles in the dryer, so next time I am going to hand dry). The weight is very comforting, and I don't have an issue with overheating, even using it in the middle of summer in a muggy climate." —Madeline B.

Promising review: "Oh man I love it... It feels like a hug. I bought the 10lb Cotton Napper though I wish I could do the 15lb Tree Napper because I like the colors better but it would be too heavy for me as I am quite small. I'm sleeping better, feel more relaxed at night and my naps are more refreshing. Also I find myself falling asleep faster." —Natasha S.

Get it from Bearaby for $199+ (available in four weights and six colors).

Promising review: "I have an anxiety disorder that has kept me from sleeping normally for over 10 years. This weighted blanket has made a huge difference. The luxurious feel of the faux fur plus the comfort of the weight allow me to feel secure and pampered at the same time. The color is also gorgeous. I highly recommend getting this weighted blanket!" —Holly

Get it from Comma Home for $85+ (originally $169+; available in 15 and 20 lb. weights, and in grey and brown).

Comma Home is a small business based in Ocean Side, New York making home goods. They also donate 10% of sales to local organizations that help the homeless.

Promising review: "After suffering with menopause night sweats waking up several times a night in a pool of sweat, these PJs were recommended to me. The PJs fit loosely. The material instantly cooled my body. At night it pulled the sweat from my body allowing me to have a good rest. I don't know where the fluid went but my sheets were not wet. I will be buying several more pairs." —jcwg

Get them from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in women's sizes S–4X and 12 colors).

And if you're looking for other styles, this brand makes tons in the same moisture-wicking bamboo fabric — you can shop them all on their Amazon storefront!

Mechanical white noise means NO LOOPING! You can just twist to adjust the volume and tone. It's simple, and that's what reviewers *love* about it.

Promising review: "I love how simple this machine is. It's not a speaker type of sound machine. It makes an air/fan sound. There is only one on/off button. The sound level is adjusted by turning the top portion of the unit. It effectively and gently drowns out house noises when you need quiet sleep conditions. We previously used desk top fans and an air purifier machine. We found the fans didn't hold up well to year-around use and the air purifier often needed a new ($10-$12) filter. There is no maintenance required for this sleep machine." —Pam M.

Get it from Amazon for $29.59+ (available in three colors).

It has 32 volume levels so you can find the perfect balance and continuous play or an auto-off timer to shut off after 1, 2, or 3 hours. And the memory function automatically stores your previous volume, sound and timer options so you don't have to reset it!

Promising review: "I read tons of reviews before settling on this one. I almost didn’t buy it because of its small size and I figured it would be a cheap piece of junk but I was very wrong. Don’t judge a book by its cover! This small box has excellent sound and is easy to operate. So far I’ve noticed no loop signs so it’s as if you’re listening to the real thing. My wife is sleeping better and to me that’s priceless. High quality and excellent performance earned this little gem a 5 star rating." —Steve Leach

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two styles).

In the morning, it has 20 brightness settings that slowly increase over 30 minutes so you rise ~with the sun~, feeling energized and ready for the day. Once it's at full brightness, only *then* will the alarm sound go off.

Promising review: "This has really made a big difference in how I wake up every morning. On these short winter days, I always have to wake up before sunrise, and that's...challenging. I found myself hitting the snooze button at least three times, leaving very little time for me to get ready and to work on time. Having the sunrise simulation wakes me up gradually and completely. I almost always wake up fully before the music starts and I have not needed the snooze function yet. All of the wake up sounds were pleasant. I especially like the birdsong with flute music, as it reminds me of being in a spa. I like the dusk option for going to sleep. I set it for 30-60 minutes and read until it's too dark and I drop off to sleep. An additional bonus is that since I'm no longer using my cellphone as my alarm clock, I practice better sleep hygiene and keep my cellphone out of the bedroom. It is a significant investment but it has been worth it." —MsEdinger

Get it from Amazon for $98.52.

Check out a BuzzFeed's sunrise lamp review (#11 in the post) for a first-hand account on how it can make mornings easier.

I use my Kindle Paperwhite (a previous generation) before bed every night, and after reading for awhile, I turn down the brightness to a low level just slightly dimmer than I'd want — after a page or two, my brain goes "Nope!" and shuts off to sleep. AND it helps me not even start thinking the anxious or negative thoughts that *usually* keep me up at night.

Promising review: "I love reading in bed on something other than my phone or iPad. This is so helpful when I need to unwind and sleep. Love the dark mode!" —Rachel Dietrich

Get it from Amazon for $89.99 (available with or without screen ads, in two storage capacities, and in three colors).

Check out the Harvard Health for more: The artificial blue light delays your circadian rhythm and suppresses the release of melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep.

Promising review: "I am a full time medical student. I spend long hours on my laptop. This has resulted in my vision getting bad, and my eyes getting tired and sore, headaches, and poor sleep. Since I received these glasses, all of that has improved! My eyes feel better, I can work for longer on the laptop without getting tired, and I sleep better at night even when I am on the laptop until late. I was skeptical that these would help, in fact, I waited a long time to purchase because I was concerned they would be a waste of money, but I was wrong! I should have ordered them when I first found them! They have been so helpful and I cannot recommend them enough. They are lightweight and comfortable. I have to be very picky about glasses, including sun glasses, because they hurt my head and my ears very quickly, giving me a bad headache, but I can wear these all day and they do not bother me. I forget I am even wearing them." —LisaP

Get a two-pack from Amazon for $12.78 (available in 12 color sets, and with tinted frames for gaming and night vision).

Their mattresses are designed to keep you from sinking in too far and "sleeping hot" — giving just enough support and cushion for a solid night's sleep. Oh, and it ships right to you in a box!

Promising review: "I've had this mattress now for a week. I gotta say at first I was a little bit uneasy about buying a mattress online. I'm a very picky sleeper and I suffer from bad insomnia. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with this mattress and they way it adjusts to my body weight. After so many months of looking and trying out mattress I'm so happy I took a chance and bought this one. Best purchase I've made. It's comfortable and it doesn't get hot during hot summer nights in Florida." —Florangel

Get it from Amazon for $521.50+ (available in sizes twin–California king).

Learn more about the Tuft & Needle mattress in our deeper dive.

Promising review: "My husband and I have a memory foam mattress, and everything was fine for quite a while. Recently I started having a horrible time sleeping, and I didn’t feel comfortable on our mattress. My husband started researching mattress toppers, and everywhere he read, this one was suppose to be the best. I do not disagree!! I have been sleeping well, I feel cooler at night, and it feels so amazing soft. I am so happy with this purchase. It is so worth it -I highly recommend! I can sleep again!" —Natalie L.

Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in sizes twin–California king).

It's made with all natural essential oils that'll help you feel calm and relaxed as you breathe it in. Spray it on blankets, pillows, clothes — you can even spray it on yourself!

Promising review: "This product is great. I spray it on my pillow at night and it helps me relax into sleep rather than toss and turn. It is also a nice fragrance around the house. So happy that I tried this. I am very pleased!" —Martha N.

Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in other scent blends, like ~energy boost~ and ~focus~, and in multipacks).

Asutra is a woman-owned company (partially owned by Venus Williams!!) carrying products for self-care. Nothing is tested on animals or contains parabens, phthalates, or petroleum.

Reviewers also use the brand's Travelers Spray (in the same listing) for their face masks!

Promising review: "I had cystic acne and was dealing with horrible flare ups. I got this spray, and also was using other topical treatments, and my acne is now barely there. I spray this on my pillow and face every night. I noticed a huge difference in my skin and sleep." —MP15

Promising review: "Product smells great. Definitely noticed a difference in less breakouts and helps soothe you to sleep. I use a silk pillowcase and has not damaged or stained it in anyway. I recommend you try this product." —Lizz

Get it from Amazon for $8.63.

Diva Stuff is a family-run and woman-owned business based in Florida.

Promising review: "This tea has been in my night routine for years. I have noticed a difference on the quality of my sleep when I drinking it versus when I skip. A grateful customer indeed!" —Montana Sunshine

Get a jumbo pack of six boxes of 40 tea bags from Amazon for $27.96 (also available in a 20-pack).

Promising review: "I've purchased several different sleep eye masks over the years. Some have been better than others with the fit, comfort and durability. With my previous pair finally breaking down, I decided to splurge for a nicer pair that included form-fitting padding integrated into the contoured mask. I was a little concerned the mask might warm up, as with some foam pillow. To my delight, this mask is exceptional. No only does it fit very comfortably, the foam padding around the edge creates a nice cushion when sleeping on side or stomach. Unlike other masks that press into your eyes if you sleep with your face partially on the pillow, the foam cushion provides a very comfortable and contoured fit around your eyes. The mask also provides a very good seal for blocking light. Overall, an outstanding design for a very reasonable price!" —Doug

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in seven colors).

You can also freeze it for headache relief! You can either just let the sides hang, or tuck them together so it doesn't move in the night.

Promising review: "There's something about placing this weighted thing on my eyes when I'm tossing and turning that lulls me back to sleep. The shape of it is a bit weird--it's not a typical eye mask, it's much bulkier and doesn't fasten on in the same way--but once you get beyond that, this can really be a beautiful thing. I keep it on my bedside table and use it if I wake up in the middle of the night and can't go back to sleep (which happens often) or once the sun rises and I want to sleep in a little more. If you have sleep issues I'd recommend trying this novel product." —Veronicam

Get it from Amazon for $27.20 (available in six colors).

Nodpod is a female-founded small brand making just, well, NodPods.

Promising review: "Just received these headphones, used them last night, and I am quite pleased -- pleased with the sound, pleased with the comfort. I bought a pair for my husband as well, as he listens to podcasts to drift off to sleep, I listen to music and meditations all thru the night, and comfort is extremely important. These are. They are lightweight, didn't know I had them on, and the sound is clear and clean without noise or interference. I look forward to using them. They're perfect for our needs. Can't ask for more! Thank you." —Marilyn

Get them from Amazon for $13.99 each (available in three colors and in seriously adorable animal versions for kids!).

There are different light options, it automatically shuts off when dry (it has a nine-hour water capacity!), and it has four timer options so you can set it to turn off once you're sound asleep.

Promising review: "Since quarantine hit, I have really been missing my diffuser I had in my office at work, so I got this one for at home, and it fits perfectly where I have it on my desk. I love the different time settings and it lasts a lot longer if you set it on auto. The colors are super pretty to cycle through, but I love that I can select a specific color if I want to. Perfect size without being obnoxious. Highly recommended." —caffeinatedpenguin

Get it from Amazon for $24.79+ (also available in a glowing stone-like designs).

It ships in a compact box and requires no extra tool for assembly. You'll be snoozing in minutes upon arrival.

Promising review: "Well this exactly what I was looking for. I bought a platform bed with headboard, footboard, and side rails. Not too long after we bought it the center support broke and slate started to crack and we kept dipping into the middle. Looked for 'heavy duty bed frame' and that’s exactly what this is. The 2” recessed edges make it so it fits inside of the side rails. It took about 10 minutes to set up, no tool required and was quiet, not a squeak at night. We are newlyweds, so we have really put it to the squeak test and it’s quiet as be. Extremely happy with our purchase. These are probably going to go in all our rooms because I know it will be no problem to get years' of use out of these." —Ryan Hughes

Get a queen size from Amazon for $65.59 (available in sizes narrow twin–California king, both standard and heavy duty).

Promising review: "Best blackout curtains ever for the price. I've shopped all over and these are truly what they are advertised. I didn't think I would need blackouts, but I work nights and sleep till noon and these are absolutely perfect. The color is a rich navy which are difficult to find in store. Trust me when I say, I went everywhere: Lowes, Home Depot & Home Goods, Tuesday morning, Ross, TJ Maxx, Walmart, Target. No place had them in this color for this price. I love, love, love, Amazon Prime because I wasn't sure if these were going to work out, but they are above and beyond what I expected." —Josie Holdridge

Get two panels from Amazon for $19.66+ (available in multiple length/width combos and 42 colors).

Promising review: "Finally, I’ve found the perfect pillow! Supportive and cool. I have spent so many years and so much money trying every type of pillow. I am a side sleeper who desires a great deal of support. I even tried expensive memory foam pillows, but they just condensed, providing no support. They also became very warm. I was constantly rearranging and flipping my pillow every which way. Because this pillow has pieces of memory foam, instead of a solid piece, it does not condense and it is airy, providing air flow, keeping it cool. In addition, included with the pillow is a bag of additional filling. Therefore, this pillow is customizable. Add more, take some out. You decide. Personally, I filled mine up making it very big and firm. Now I sleep through the night, cool and comfortably. Finally." —Jujubees

Get them from Amazon for $57.60 each (also available in king-size and two additional styles).

Was this originally designed for pregnant people? Yes. Will everyone feel the benefits? Also yes. It also has a removable cover you can toss right in the wash for easy cleaning!

Promising review: "This pillow saved me! I was not sleeping AT ALL. Tossing, turning couldn't get comfortable. I am not pregnant, I just needed additional support for my back which this provides and has helped ease hip and leg aches. It also keeps me in one spot so I don't wake myself up constantly moving around, but allows me to easily maneuver if I need too and I fall right back to sleep. My dogs love it too. I will often find them snuggled up in the middle of it under the blanket. Have no issue with the fluff. I throw it in the dryer every other time I wash the cover and flip it over often sleeping on both sides." —Karen

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in four sizes and 11 colors).

Remember that thing you did in third grade? You know how you stayed up half the night last week thinking about it? That's over now.

Promising review: "Although I usually have no trouble falling asleep at night, lately I've found myself staying awake later — sometimes anxious about all of the things I have to do the next day, and sometimes just with too many thoughts occupying my head. I like using this journal to learn more about myself and what my thoughts actually mean. I've found that some of my most cyclical and reoccurring thoughts are outlining fears I've been too hesitant to confront, and this journal is helping me to recalibrate them into more helpful thoughts." —Trevor Burbank

Get it from Amazon for $16.

It also has a built-in alarm clock so you can easily check what time it is in the middle of the night without checking your phone. And speaking of your phone, it also has a built-in wireless charging base!

Promising review: "This will be perfect to use if I ever have to study at night. It’s really cute and the fact that i can change the light to warm or bright is awesome. Works really well, easy to program. LED lamp with three different temperatures and different levels of intensity." —Daisy

Get it from Amazon for $23.44+ (available in four colors).

Promising review: "I have insomnia and this is exactly what the packaging says: 'an adult security blanket.' It keeps you warm without getting too hot and it’s light and fluffy."—Alby Yasmeen Sumague

Get a queen size from Amazon for $37.38 (available in sizes twin–oversized king and six colors and styles).

Promising review: "I have to admit, I was skeptical that this blanket would be enough to keep us warm at night, in the winter...and when I first saw it/held it, I was even more doubtful. But after one night it was clear that even though it feels light, this blanket is COZY! I haven’t woken up too hot or too cold since it arrived. I love how soft and luxurious it is. Absolutely worth every penny!" —Muslin Comfort Reviewer

Get it from Muslin Comfort for $199.99+ (available in sizes oversized twin–oversized king and 12 colors).

Muslin Comfort is a woman-owned small business based in California making muslin bedding and towels.

Promising review: "I suffer from bad sciatica. I asked my doctor about a pillow, and he said not to get it because it may or may not help and he didn't want me to waste my money. Well after a couple of weeks I got desperate. I read all these reviews and ordered the cushion with the best ratings (within my budget). I was disappointed. My knees/ legs were barely apart. They were pretty much still touching. I saved the packaging so I could send it back. That night I tried it again just to give it a fair shot. THAT NIGHT WAS THE FIRST NIGHT I SLEPT THROUGH THE ENTIRE NIGHT IN SIX WEEKS!!! and it wasn't a fluke. A week later and I'm still sleeping through the night. My hips are no longer sore in the morning and it's not excruciating pain when I sit up in the morning. Don't get me wrong, I am still in pain especially when bending or stooping but the all-day 'just for no reason' pain has gotten a lot better. I have no idea how but this thing works. I won't even lay on the couch without it now." —Stacey Johnson

Get it from Amazon for $21.95.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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