Ready to give mouth taping a try to stop snoring or encourage better sleep breathing?
Applying mouth tape properly is key to maximizing comfort and benefits.
Follow this beginner’s guide for your first time trying this unusual but effective sleep technique.
Why Proper Technique Matters
Mouth taping involves placing a porous tape over the lips before sleep to keep the mouth closed. Done correctly, it can promote nasal breathing. But proper technique is everything for success and comfort.
Using the right tape, carefully applying it to clean, dry lips, and gently removing it in the morning prevents irritation, discomfort, and other issues. Rushing or slopping random tape haphazardly over your mouth will likely lead to a poor experience.
Let’s look at the step-by-step process for flawless execution.
How to Use Mouth Tape For Sleep
Supplies Needed:
- Porous paper medical tape like SomaBody Mouthtape
- Lip balm (non-petroleum based)
Step 1 - Acquire Tape
Acquire your mouth tape from our SomaBody website or buy Medical Grade Gentle Paper Tape.
Step 2 - Cut Strips (If using a tape roll)
Cut a small strip of tape enough to cover the entire mouth and lips. Make sure it is long enough to cover the corners of your lips.
Step 3 - Wash Face
Wash your face as normal before bed to remove oils and dirt so tape adheres properly.
Step 4 - Dry Face and Lips
Gently dab lips with a towel to remove any remaining moisture before applying tape.
Step 5 - Apply Tape
First gently but completely close your mouth and have your lips touching together. Take the tape strip and apply it completely over your mouth and lips. Press the entire tape against your mouth with your fingers.
Step 6 - Check Seal
Run finger along tape edges to ensure they’re stuck properly. Give an experimental inhale to confirm you can breathe just through your nose.
Step 7 - Sleep!
Get into your normal sleep position and let the mouth tape work its magic overnight!
Tips for Mouth Taping Success
Here are some additional pointers for an optimal first time:
- Adjust tape position if lips feel any pulling or pinching
- Make sure your lips are touching - this will prevent saliva seeping out to make the tape less adhesive over night
- Initially just try taping during daytime naps to acclimate
- Apply a layer of balm over lips to increase comfort
What to Expect After Taping
It takes most people 1-2 weeks of consistent use to adjust to the feeling of mouth taping. You may take it off in your sleep as you get used to the practice. In a small number of cases, temporary lip dryness or minor irritation can occur but should subside quickly.
Be patient through the initial adjustment period. Soon mouth taping will feel totally normal and comfortable all night. Then you can enjoy the full restorative benefits for sleep quality and breathing!
With this handy step-by-step guide, you’re ready to tape your mouth properly and easily. Stick to the techniques outlined here for smooth, painless mouth taping right off the bat. Sweet dreams!
