Is It Safe to Wear Earbuds While Sleeping?
The New York Times • • health
Key Points:
- Listening to music or white noise through earbuds at bedtime can help block out disruptive sounds and improve sleep quality, especially for those prone to sleep issues.
- Ear specialists caution that using in-ear headphones that create a seal may trap moisture in the ear canal, increasing the risk of bacterial infections.
- Showering before bed can leave extra water in the ears, so drying them carefully with a low-setting blow dryer is recommended to reduce infection risk.
- While using earbuds during sleep is generally safe, users should be mindful of hygiene and avoid prolonged moisture buildup to protect ear health.