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Unplug Before Bed With These Non-Blue Light Products

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In the most simple terms, blue light — the luminescence emitted from tech screens — tricks the brain into thinking it is daytime. William T. Reynolds, OD, president of the American Optometric Association, tells Refinery29 it can cause "eye strain, fatigue, and headaches." This might explain why accidentally seeing the sun rise behind your latest Netflix binge is a modern day universal experience. It also accounts for why, according to Sleep Health, 70% of American adults suck at falling asleep. So, to chip away that high percentage, we hunted and gathered 10 non-blue light products to keep you entertained yet totally relaxed before bed. We were, full transparency, were a tad clueless about what could possibly replace a successful Candy Crush level or quell the desire to doom scroll our way to not-so-sweet dreams — but, we scrounged up a few options. Soothing meditation mugs, classic Moleskine journals, innovative brain teasers, and more gizmos are eager to lull our tired and wired noggins to sleep. Scroll on for our full list of amusing-yet-snoozy non-blue light products, below.
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The Loftie is high in price but extremely high in reward. If you’re not looking to 100% unplug, but lock your smart phone away for good then this gadget’s dimmable display, soft night light, gentle two-phase alarm, and amalgamation of soothing sleep sounds are worthy swaps for iPhone ringtones and Instagram scrolls. Even without the brand's free shipping, one year warranty, and free returns, the oh so chic battery-operated Loftie is an all around fab phone replacement (funny enough, it’ll charge your cellular device for when you turn it back on in the AM.)
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We didn't think such a perfect product for phone- and tablet-free sleeps existed — not until we came across Uncommon Goods' mind-silencing Unplugged Sleep Helper. So, what is it? This bonafide doohickey is a "screenless meditation device" that lulls listeners to sleep via eight sound themes — nature sounds, breathing, body scans (?), etc. Whether you're using it to slip into peaceful slumbers or simply calming any rampant inner thoughts, just eight to 20 minutes with the Sleep Helper should slow your heart rate down in no time.
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This coloring book is a sleepy hidden gem — first, complete one of the 38 included drink recipes, then sip on your fancy beverage whilst coloring in the oodles of alcohol-themed Zentangles, and eventually conk out peacefully in sheer non-blue light bliss. But of course, please drink responsibly.
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Breathe in, hold for three — and breathe out as you trace the soothing embossed print on Uncommon Goods' meditation mug. It seems simple, but that combination of silence, serenity, and centered-focus is enough to make any wired person slow down, if not completely doze off into a rejuvenating eight hours. Uncommon Goods reviewer, Paula, adores "sitting in [her] comfy chair with tea [or] coffee and tracing the [impression] with [her] finger;" reviewer Bon-bon finds themselves following the calming lines "even when the mug is empty." And, if you like to go big when it comes to liquids, you're in luck — the mug can carry up to 16 oz. of your favorite bev (and of course the occasional cup ramen).
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A product that needs little to no introduction: the classic Moleskin journal. Now, you may roll your eyes at this "basic" suggestion, but oldies are famously goodies — and jotting down your thoughts before bed is equally useful for weighing down eyelids. Moleskine journals, specifically, fly off the shelves for their reliable practicality and simple design. This three pack features cardboard covers, visible spine stitching, 16 detachable sheets for note sharing, and ivory acid-free pages.
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Another classic: knitting. We went for finger-knitting in particular because the small, circular looms are easily transferrable to nightstands, beginner-friendly, and simple enough to trigger relaxation as opposed to frustration. This kit is your ticket to three easy-peasy (made for ages eight and up) crafting and provides you with all the necessities for three scarves, one pair of boot cuffs, one cowl neck warmer, and even a cute headband.
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At a glance, these wooden knick-knacks are mere additions to the average person's junk drawer. But, we dug a little deeper and discovered that this brain teaser set is in fact inspired by the innovations of five global civilizations — Chinese tea mysteries, Grecian water mills, Egyptian pi puzzles, Roman keys, and Aztec passion flowers. Uncommon Goods' product description encourages customers to place these atop coffee tables, but we think they'd look fab decorating a nightstand or two.
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When in doubt; squeeze, squish, and smush the frustrations of the day out with some calming dough (specifically modeled after art therapist clay). Not are these three malleable pots perfect for physical touch, they also adhere to sense of smell with three infused essential oils: eucalyptus, lavender, and sweet orange.
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Sleep and mental health go hand-in-hand, so it's no surprise here that this embroidery kit is a superb wind-down activity. Similar to finger knitting, embroidery is fairly portable and helps focus the mind stitch by stitch. Uncommon Good's kit includes everything except the scissors — for $38 you get a guide booklet, an embroidery needle, a thread card with colorful string, pre-printed cotton twill fabric, and a wooden six inch embroidery hoop.
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Therapy dough not your ... vibe? When in doubt, rub one out! IFYKYK, the winks caught post-petit mort constitute some of the best sleep you can get, and Maude's Vibe does a damn good job. The gender-neutral toy can be found dripping with rave reviews at retailers across the web — we assume thanks to the juxtaposition of sleek, unassuming design and orgasmic technology. One review from verified Maude buyer Katia O. says it all: "Small, discreet, and does the job ... well."
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Yawn! Welcome to Sleep Week, a seven-day stretch where we source you the best buys in the Zzz-catching business—from editor-vetted bedtime rituals to exclusive mattress deals and more of the internet’s most slumber-worthy scores. Go ahead, hit snooze with us.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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