Under pillow speakers are a great way to listen to TV, music, or relaxing sounds while laying down. They are also helpful for people suffering from tinnitus. One of the questions I get all the time is whether they are safe to use. Under pillow speakers, when used appropriately, aren’t dangerous.
In this article, I will explain how to use them safely. I will also explain how using regular speakers under your pillow could be dangerous. Finally, I’ll recommend a few under pillow speakers if you are in the market for one.
Note: This article may contain affiliate links for the products mentioned
Under pillow speakers – are they safe?
Yes, under pillow speakers are safe to use, as long as you are using a specifically designed under pillow speaker. I don’t recommend using a smartphone, Bluetooth speaker, or any other type of audio device as a replacement for an under pillow speaker.
Under pillow speakers are designed specifically for use under a pillow. When you use some other type of audio device, you are potentially using it in a way that it was not designed.
Lithium ion batteries can increase your risk
One of the main risks of fire or burns, when it comes to using speakers under a pillow, is lithium ion batteries. You have probably heard the horror stories of smartphones catching fire while in people’s pockets. Lithium ion batteries are usually the culprit in these situations.
Under pillow speakers aren’t usually battery powered. If they are, the battery is contained in a separate housing away from the pillow. They are designed this way to avoid the risk from using lithium ion batteries.
Use speakers that are designed for pillows
The main reason it is not recommended to use Bluetooth speakers or smartphones under your pillow is the risk that is associated with lithium ion and other types of batteries in confined spaces. It’s important that you only use specifically designed under pillow speakers.
Most under pillow speakers will have a passive speaker that slips under your pillow. The amplifier is contained in a separate housing that rests on the nightstand. This design allows under pillow speakers to be safe. Using products that weren’t designed to be used under pillows is where you increase your risk of burns, hearing loss, or other injury.
Recommended under pillow speakers
Hopefully I’ve convinced you that the safest thing to do is to buy a specifically designed under pillow speaker, instead of using something like a smartphone under your pillow. Here are my top recommendations:
Sangean PS-300 Pillow Speaker
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One of the best traditional style under pillow speakers is the Sangean PS-300 Pillow Speaker. The PS-300 connects to any device with a standard 3.5mm headphone cable. It can be used with or without a battery. When you insert a battery and turn on the amplifier, you get more volume.
The PS-300 has an in-line volume control so you can fine tune your listening experience. The super slim speaker profile means you can easily slip it underneath your pillow, or even inside the pillowcase. The PS-300 works great even through down or memory foam pillows.
The one downside is the lack of wireless connections. The PS-300 requires a wired connection with the included 3.5mm cable. If you need Bluetooth, check out the next product below. But if you don’t mind the wired connection, the PS-300 is the best value due to it’s low price.
Drowsie Pillow Speaker
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If you want an under pillow speaker with Bluetooth and advanced features, I recommend the Drowsie Pillow Speaker. The Drowsie is a completely wireless under pillow speaker. The slim, fabric speaker slides underneath your pillow and provides great sound for TV, music, or relaxing sounds.
The battery life of the Drowsie is up to 10 hours, so you’ll be able to enjoy audio for a full nights sleep if desired. Charging is done via the included micro USB cable.
The audio connection is done with Bluetooth, so you can pair the Drowsie to any smartphone, TV, or device that supports Bluetooth connections. Volume is controlled on your audio device. This makes it a great option for those that prefer a completely wireless under pillow speaker.
Conclusion
Under pillow speakers are safe, as long as you are using a speaker specifically designed to be placed underneath a pillow. Using other devices, such as a smartphone or Bluetooth speaker, is not advised due to the risks that batteries can pose.