RestoreAdults
5 Best Sleep Products for College Students in 2025
Ashley Abramson
Sleep is one of the most underrated success tools in college — but getting good Zzzs can feel as challenging as writing a ten-page paper the night before it’s due. Irregular schedules, noisy college housing, late-night cram sessions can all stand in the way of quality sleep, making it hard to feel rested and ready to take on the day.
While it may not be realistic to log a solid eight hours every night in college, there are a few simple-but-effective steps you can take to prioritize your rest. Below, learn how sleep tools, including Hatch Restore, can support your college sleep routine.
Why Sleep Matters in College
While it’s tempting to pull all-nighters or trade rest for social time, consistent, quality sleep is essential for mental and physical function (not to sound like your biology professor).
During sleep, the brain consolidates what you’ve learned, so hitting the pillow after studying can actually help you retain information better. Sleep also sharpens attention, supporting productivity and academic performance. But it’s not just about academics: Poor sleep can also increase the effects of stress and anxiety — and college is stressful enough as it is.
A regular sleep routine is one of the best ways to get better sleep. Struggling to get the rest you need? Incorporating these sleep products into your routine can help prepare your mind and body for rest.
1. Sunrise Alarm
No matter what’s standing between you and restful sleep, Hatch Restore is an ideal sleep solution for college life. Its gentle sunrise alarm wakes you gradually — without disturbing your roommates — while white noise and relaxing audio can help block out distracting noise and ease your mind at night. With guided routines and phone-free controls, Restore supports consistent, restful sleep at school.
2. Reading Light
A dedicated reading light can be a game-changer for late-night study sessions — no need for overhead light that can interrupt your circadian rhythm or be harsh on tired eyes. The Vekkia dual‑head rechargeable book light delivers flicker‑free, warm LED glow across two adjustable heads, illuminating pages without straining your eyes or disturbing roommates.
Buy Vekkia rechargeable book light
3. Smart Sleep Mask
For college students, blocking out light can be key to better sleep, especially in shared sleep spaces with roommates, screens, and hallway lights. The Therabody Sleep Mask offers full blackout coverage and gentle vibrations to calm your mind. This high-tech, portable option is a bit of an investment, but it can help support deeper rest during busy college days and nights.
4. Black-Out Curtains
For college students, a dark sleep space can make a big difference — especially in college housing or shared apartments with unpredictable lighting. Blackout curtains help block streetlights, hallway glare, or early sunrises, allowing your brain to produce melatonin naturally. These IKEA curtains are a smart, wallet-friendly choice, offering effective light blocking and dorm‑room style without breaking your budget.
Buy IKEA ROSENMANDEL blackout curtains
5. Cooling Bedding
A cool sleeping space can help support better rest, but if you share a sleep space with someone else, or you live in college housing, you may not have control over the temperature. That’s where cooling sheets come in. Breathable and lightweight yet sturdy, this L.L. Bean set is highly rated by Wirecutter and beloved by customer reviewers. It comes in five different sizes and nine different colors.
Buy: L.L. Bean Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set
Prioritizing rest might not always feel urgent, but it can be the difference between surviving the semester and thriving as a student. College sleep tools can help support a healthy sleep routine, making it easier for you to fall and stay asleep — even when your roommate has the lights on or your next door neighbors are partying until 1 AM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it so hard to sleep in college?
Sleep can be tough in college due to irregular schedules, late-night studying, screen time, stress, and noisy dorms. Social plans, caffeine, and early classes also disrupt sleep routines. Without structure or a calming environment, it’s harder for the brain to wind down and get consistent, quality rest.
What is the ideal sleep for college students?
College students ideally need 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to support memory, focus, mood, and overall health. Consistent sleep and wake times, plus a calming bedtime routine, can improve energy, academic performance, and mental health.
What is the best night routine for a student?
The best night routine for a student includes winding down before bed with calming activities like reading, stretching, or listening to soothing music. Avoid screens for an hour or two before bed when possible to keep your circadian rhythm in check. Keep the lights dim, follow a consistent bedtime, and create a dark, quiet space to support deeper sleep.
