Forget expensive sleepbuds. Buy this pillow instead - The Verge

What the report says

The Verge’s Thomas Ricker reviewed an inexpensive alternative for side-sleepers who want to wear earbuds in bed: a “piercing pillow” with ear cutouts. The article argues that instead of buying dedicated sleep earbuds from companies such as Anker or Ozlo for more than $200, some users may be able to use earbuds they already own with a pillow designed to reduce pressure on freshly pierced ears.

Ricker tested the $55 Blissbury Ear Pillow, which includes two ear openings, a washable cover and a removable foam insert that adjusts its thickness from about 4 to 5 inches. He reported that the cutouts lined up well with his ears in common side-sleeping positions and made it easier to use bulkier earbuds such as AirPods, Galaxy Buds or Pixel Buds without pressing them uncomfortably into the ear.

The review notes that dedicated sleepbuds may still be useful in some cases, particularly for people trying to mask a partner’s snoring. Ricker cited Anker’s Soundcore Sleep A30 as effective for light to moderate snoring, while also noting the limits of tiny battery-powered earbuds compared with full-size wireless earbuds a user may already own.

The piece matters for consumers because it frames a low-tech accessory as a cheaper and potentially longer-lasting solution to a problem often addressed with specialized electronics. The Verge also disclosed that Vox Media may earn a commission from purchases made through its links.