What Are Sleeper Earrings? (And Why Jewellers Still Recommend Them)

If you’ve ever wondered what sleeper earrings are — often referred to simply as sleepers or sleeper hoops — their defining feature is simple: they are small hoop earrings designed to be comfortable enough to wear all the time, including while sleeping.

Traditionally made in hypoallergenic precious metals such as gold or sterling silver, and now also available in titanium or surgical steel, sleeper earrings have long been recommended by jewellers for new piercings, sensitive ears, and everyday wear.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what sleeper earrings are, why they remain bestsellers in our jewellers, and why they are still considered the most practical earrings you can own.

---

What Are Sleeper Earrings?

Sleeper earrings are small, lightweight hoop earrings that sit close to the ear. Their smooth, continuous shape means there are no sharp posts or fiddly backs, making them exceptionally comfortable.

Because of this design, sleepers can be worn:

• Day and night

• While sleeping

• During daily activities without catching

They are most commonly worn as first earrings after ear piercing, but are also popular as everyday earrings for all ages.

---

Why Sleeper Earrings Are Ideal for First Piercings

For decades, sleeper earrings were the standard choice for newly pierced ears — and for good reason.

New piercings need:

• Constant wear to prevent the hole closing

• Minimal movement and irritation

• Easy cleaning without excessive handling

Small sleeper hoops meet all of these needs. Their shape allows them to be gently turned and cleaned without touching the skin unnecessarily, helping to keep piercings clean while they heal.

Gold sleeper earrings — usually 9ct or 14ct — are traditionally recommended for first piercings. Once healing is established, sterling silver can also be worn comfortably by many people.

---

Can You Sleep in Sleeper Earrings?

Yes — sleeper earrings are the only earrings we recommend wearing while sleeping.

Their small diameter and lightweight design mean:

• They don’t press into the ear

• There are no posts to dig into the skin

• There are no backs to loosen or lose overnight

This makes them ideal not only for sleep, but also for continuous wear during the healing stage of a new piercing.

---

Sleeper Earrings for Sensitive or Irritated Ears

If you have sensitive ears — or notice irritation after wearing costume or plated earrings — sleeper earrings can be incredibly soothing.

Solid precious metals and hypoallergenic materials are far less likely to cause itching, redness, or soreness. Many customers find that switching back to sleeper earrings allows their ears to calm and recover quickly.

They are also an excellent “recovery” earring after wearing cheaper earrings for short periods.

---

Best Metals for Sleeper Earrings

Sleeper earrings are available in a range of skin-friendly materials:

• Gold (9ct or 14ct): A classic choice for first piercings and sensitive ears

• Sterling Silver: Suitable once piercings are healed

• Titanium: Extremely inert and ideal for very sensitive skin

• Surgical Steel: Affordable, durable, and widely used in body jewellery

Some people find they react even to silver or gold — in these cases, titanium or surgical steel can be an excellent alternative.

---

What Size Sleeper Earrings Should You Choose?

Most sleeper earrings are sold in small diameters, typically:

• 8mm

• 10mm

• 12mm

These sizes sit close to the ear and are unlikely to catch, even during sleep.

Larger hoop earrings — from around 15mm upwards — are generally not recommended for sleeping, as they are more likely to snag. At larger sizes, they are usually referred to simply as hoop earrings rather than sleepers.

👉 You may find our Hoop Size Guide helpful when choosing the right diameter.

---

Are Sleeper Earrings Safe for Children?

Sleeper earrings are widely considered the safest earrings for children.

Because they:

• Sit close to the ear

• Are lightweight

• Have no loose backs

• Are made from skin-friendly materials

They are unlikely to catch or be pulled. This makes them ideal for young ears, particularly when worn in solid gold.

They are also useful as “nap earrings” for children who need to remove earrings during school hours but want to prevent their piercings from closing.

---

Sleeper Earrings for Everyday Wear (All Ages & Genders)

Sleeper earrings suit everyone with pierced ears — from babies to older adults.

Many customers with arthritic fingers find sleepers especially helpful, as there are no small backs to manage. Once fitted, they can be left in place and cleaned gently during bathing.

They are also completely unisex, looking equally natural on men and women.

---

Styles of Sleeper Earrings

While classic sleepers are plain polished hoops, there are many styles available:

• Plain metal sleepers in yellow gold, white gold, rose gold or silver

• Faceted or diamond-cut sleepers, which sparkle without raised stones

• Stone-set sleepers, including diamond or cubic zirconia designs

Faceted sleepers are particularly popular, as they add subtle sparkle while remaining comfortable enough for continuous wear.

---

How Do Sleeper Earrings Fasten?

Sleeper earrings are available with several different closure styles, from traditional endless hoops to modern hinged “clicker” fittings.

Each type has its own advantages depending on comfort, dexterity and ease of use.

👉 You can read our full Guide to Types of Hoop Earring Closures and Fittings here.

---

At a glance: why sleeper earrings remain a jeweller’s essential.