Travel & Lifestyle: The NodPod Weighted Sleep Mask Helped Me Fall Asleep Faster

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You’ve most likely heard of weighted blankets and their anxiety-reducing, sleep-improving potential. Unsurprisingly, that same gentle-pressure logic applies to sleep masks, which I decided to try out for myself when I purchased the Nodpod — a truly comforting sleep essential that’s very unlike other sleep masks you may have already tried.

I’m a side sleeper, which means traditional sleep masks, though helpful for blocking out light, have always felt too restrictive or have interfered with my face pressed against the pillow. I also found that one move too many, and my mask would shift off one eye while the other side drooped awkwardly down my cheek. The Nodpod, on the other hand, is thoughtfully designed to accommodate all sleep positions and stay in place all night long.

This calming mask is made up of four individual pods filled with microbeads to target key stress points on the face and offer relaxing pressure, while also contouring to your face shape, whether you’re lying on your side, back or any way in between. The bead-filled design also helps to block light more effectively compared with other masks since it naturally fills in those awkward spaces around the eyes and along the bridge of the nose.

And because it’s fully flexible and completely free of any straps or fasteners, it’s so nice to just be able to lay the Nodpod over your face, tuck it around your head, or rest it in any way that’s most comfortable for you in the moment. Reviewers note that if you place the remaining pods over your ears, they can add a noise-muffling effect — an observation I concur with.

If you’re someone who likes the more conventional design of a sleep mask that fits snugly around the head, don’t worry because that’s also an option with the Nodpod. At the tail end of the mask is a small notch that the other end of the mask can be pulled through so you instantly have a fully adjustable sleep mask that also doesn’t feel as if anything is pushing against the back of your head. I like to do this on planes or when I’m sitting in a more upright position, and I find that it really does help keep me asleep.

Available in four colors, the original Nodpod is covered in supremely soft microfleece on one side and premium jersey cotton on the other. More recently, the brand launched a silk-sided model, which features the same microfleece on one side and high-grade 22-momme silk on the other. I splurged a little and opted for the latter option due to evidence that sleeping on silk can help prevent the formation of facial wrinkles, be more hydrating for the skin and keep you cool while you sleep. No matter which version you go with, however, both are completely machine washable.

I also find myself using the Nodpod for purposes other than sleep, like lying it across my shoulders while I’m working to help prevent me from hunching, or even across my chest when I’m having anxiety. The brand additionally suggests popping the mask in the freezer before placing it over your eyes to reduce facial puffiness or provide relief from headaches.

I’m not entirely sure if its the weight against my face or the mimicking of the sensation of snuggling with a blanket, but the Nodpod has genuinely helped me fall asleep significantly faster (I’m talking in minutes) and stay asleep the entire night — something I’ve never been accustomed to as someone who typically wakes up several times throughout the night.

It’s also not just me who attributes greater and better sleep to the Nodpod. In fact, some proud pod owners say they “no longer want to sleep without it.” Read these and other endorsements just ahead or buy one for yourself from any of the featured links.

Promising Amazon reviews:

“I’ve had this Nodpod weighted eye mask for about two and a half months now and I no longer want to sleep without it. It’s so comfortable. I was nervous that it wouldn’t stay on, but the back strap closure is sturdy without being lumpy or hard to sleep on. It stays on well and is very adjustable. It’s so relaxing and blocks light, but it’s just weighted enough to soothe my eyes. I actually love how it has four weighted pouches. I strap it on centered and two side pouches sit over my ears and help muffle sounds as well as block light. There is also the option of a warmer and fuzzier side and a smoother cooler side. I put them on and I fall asleep within about 5 minutes. My boyfriend can’t believe how fast I fall asleep now. I also find that they help me stay asleep. 10/10 would recommend.” — Eoin M.

“Bought one on a whim after my eye doctor ‘prescribed’ using a weighted mask twice daily. (Along with eye drops to alleviate dry eye) Made one out of a sock and rice, and it was fine, but this one is really well designed and more functional. I love that I don’t have to strap it to my head but it stays in place. I switch between side sleeping and sleeping on my back, and this mask stays put either way. Just drape it the right way and you’re good to go. A nice bonus is that it blocks the light really well. ( I know, that’s probably it’s main purpose, but since I was talking about the weighted aspect, wanted to get that point in there, too…)
Some people wrote they were worried about too much weight on their eyes, but I haven’t found that to be the case at all. The pressure is gentle and comforting, not oppressive.
Bought some for gifts for sisters and friends. Hope they’ll enjoy them as much I do mine.” — Erin Felvey

“I LOVE this sleep mask! I normally never write reviews but I was so happy with this purchase I had to. I have a very hard time falling asleep and staying asleep. I also like it as dark as possible when I sleep. This eye mask has helped me fall asleep faster and is so comfortable to wear. It blocks all the light and the added weight is perfect. I love that I can sleep on my side too without it being uncomfortable. It’s truly changed my sleeping life. I will never not own one of these. 10/10 recommend!” — Amber

“I love Nod Pod Because you can sleep in any position without feeling constricted. Nothing to pull on your hair. And if you have a big head like me, it’s a perfect fit. No headaches. Just total blackout in the form of a versatile, soft and light weight blanket for your eyes. One thing I really like is that you can adjust your sleep position without having to worry that it will fall off. I like to sleep on my side, and it’s easy– you just shift the position of the pods to counterbalance the other pods and it rests effortlessly in place. The color is beautiful and the fabric is soft and soothing. It doesn’t come with a chemical smell like some products do. Adding some essential oils is a nice finishing touch. I’ve never tried to wash mine so I can’t speak to that, but I’ve had more than one Nod Pod and they have always held up very well. Very well made product.” — Megan L.

If the Nodpod doesn’t meet your needs, here are a few other weighted sleep masks that can give you a relaxing night’s rest: