Sleep is crucial for our well-being, aiding in recovery and regeneration. It affects many aspects of our health, including cognitive function, weight and stress management, and immune system performance. Generally, adults are advised to sleep seven to nine hours per night. However, as we age, our melatonin production—which helps regulate sleep—tends to decrease, making rest more challenging.
Melatonin levels usually start to decline in our late teens and continue to drop as we age, especially for those in their 60s and 70s. During teenage years, more sleep is required, but for people over 70, six and a half to seven hours a night might still be considered normal.
For better sleep, it’s recommended to limit screen use before bed, avoid caffeine and heavy meals, stay active, and manage stress. Creating a cool, dark bedroom environment and wearing minimal clothing while sleeping can also help.
In selecting top sleep products, insights from Health’s editorial team and medical experts were considered. We extensively researched and tested over 125 products, including bedding and sleep gadgets, culminating in 36 winners for our 2023 Sleep Awards.
One highlight, the Hotel Sobella Hypoallergenic Medium Pillow, is great for side sleepers with its soft gel fiber fill and 300-thread count cotton cover. Sleeping on your side can improve breathing, particularly for those with sleep apnea.
For travelers, the Pluto Pod travel pillow offers a padded hood and built-in eye mask, providing comfort and blocking light. The Wiggle Pillow, ideal for body support, is eco-friendly, crafted from materials like eucalyptus and recycled fibers.
Another option is the Grace & Company Serafina Vegan Satin Pillowcase, which reduces friction and maintains skin hydration, also benefiting hair health. For sheet sets, the Buffy Breeze offers cooling, eco-friendly eucalyptus fabric, while Pottery Barn’s high-thread-count sateen sheets are known for quality.
To layer bedding, soft quilts and blankets, like the UnHide Marshmallow Blanket, provide warmth and can add decorative touches. The Sleep Number Horizontal Channel Coverlet Set is versatile for different seasons.
The Sleep Number p5 Smart Bed offers customizable firmness, and a slightly inclined bed can prevent airway obstruction during sleep. For mattresses, Brooklyn Bedding’s Plank Firm Luxe is favored for its support and even weight distribution. The Sealy Posturepedic Plus Satisfied II mattress provides firm comfort with a stabilizing design.
Mattress toppers like Saatva’s Down Alternative Featherbed enhance comfort for side sleepers. The Baloo Cloud Bootie keeps your feet warm, and the UGG Tazzlita booties are made with responsible materials for nighttime coziness.
Accessories like the Ostrichpillow eye mask and Drowsy silk eye mask ensure a dark sleeping environment. Skin-enhancing products like Laneige’s Water Sleeping Mask and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water offer overnight care.
Scents can also enhance relaxation; the Urban Apothecary Green Lavender Signature Diffuser blends relaxing aromas to aid sleep. Journaling in Papier’s customizable wellness journal can help unwind your mind before bed.
For those who enjoy listening to audio while falling asleep, SleepPhones feature comfortable speakers embedded in a soft headband. The Dreamland Baby Dream Sound Machine, though designed for children, is perfect for travel with its soothing sounds.
Red light options like the Helight Sleep can assist sleep, with benefits backed by studies. The Yogasleep Dohm Natural Sound Machine and Hatch Restore 2 sound machine create a calming environment with white noise and soothing lighting.
For noise reduction, Loop Earplugs provide adjustable sound settings. Technologies like the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 track sleep patterns and assist in improving sleep quality. The Skyview 2 light mimics natural daylight to regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Using a humidifier like the Hey Dewy Wellness Humidifier can prevent dryness, enhancing comfort during sleep. Ultimately, finding the right combination of sleep tools and habits can significantly improve your rest and overall health.
