I Wasn’t a Sleep Mask Person — But This Pillow-Soft One Changed Everything

As a card-carrying sleepyhead, I don’t usually rely on reinforcements to fall asleep (humble brag). Even still, I value my non-waking hours so much that I love experimenting with new ways to optimize the experience. I hadn’t tried a sleep mask before, so I leapt at the chance to try Illo’s Wearable Pillow Sleep Mask. It claims to be a blackout sleep mask and cushiony travel pillow in one, and it actually ended up being so much more. Keep reading to learn why I won’t go to bed without it. 

It’s a plush, lightly weighted mask that slips on to block out light, muffle sound, and soothe pressure points — paving the way for high-quality rest. It won’t replace a regular sleeping pillow, but the squishy, multilayered design is a snuggly boost. And because it’s cushioned all the way around, it’s great for naps on planes, trains, and automobiles (it comes with a travel bag, too). Wear the mask over your eyes as intended, or put it around your neck, behind your head, or cradle it in your arms for soothing, on-the-go cuddles. 

The one-size-fits-most mask features a stretchy nylon-spandex blend exterior and is lined with a modal-mulberry silk blend for next-level softness and breathability. It comes in three colors: Bedtime Blue, Midnight Blue, and Violet Dream. (I opted for the Midnight Blue.) 

I already love getting my nine to 10 hours, but the Illo Wearable Pillow Sleep Mask makes me love it even more. The oversized, pillowy soft design gives me the perfect level of cushion. And it doesn’t matter which position I sleep in (I cycle through them all) — it helps keep me comfortable in every one of them. 

When it comes to fit, it’s not too big or too tight. In fact, it’s lightly compressive, almost like a weighted blanket for my head and eyes — it’s the emotional support sleep mask I didn’t know I needed. It’s so comforting, I’ve been wearing it on my head before going to sleep at night too. The all-over padding allows me to lean my head comfortably against my flat wood headboard while reading. When I’m ready to hit the hay, I slip it down over my eyes, and I’m asleep in no time. 

The mask’s multilayered design blocks out all light — even with my bedroom’s overhead light on. Its plush sides provide some light noise dampening, too; street sounds and even my husband’s snoring (sorry!) aren’t as disruptive as they were before, which is a nice bonus. However, it does sometimes slip down around my neck during the night as I toss and turn. It hasn’t woken me up — it feels like a comfy neck pillow — but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re a really light sleeper. 

Another unexpected pro is that the sleep mask is so massive, it smooths my hair and keeps it from tangling through the night. The silky-soft lining helps tame some of my frizz, too. So, naturally, I refuse to sleep or travel without it now. 

Buy: Illo Wearable Pillow Sleep Mask, $40