Is Hostage Tape mouth taping for better sleep a scam? As a stay-at-home mom of three, I’ve reached a point in life where sleep is a survival skill.
Between late-night feedings, school runs, and trying to squeeze in a Netflix binge or two, I’ll try anything that promises to improve sleep quality.
So when I kept seeing Hostage Tape Mouth Strips popping up on social media after a recent viral Podcast clip, my curiosity got the best of me. A tape… for your mouth… while you sleep? Sounds mildly terrifying, but also kind of genius.
This is my real, neutral, and slightly sleep-deprived mom review.
Table of Contents
About Hostage Tape mouth tape
Hostage Tape is a non-invasive, adhesive mouth tape designed to gently hold your lips closed while you sleep. Why would anyone do that? The idea is that breathing through your nose is healthier and better for sleep quality, while mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth, snoring, poor sleep, and even bad breath.
It’s marketed as extra-strong and comfortable — a premium version of the sleep mouth tapes you’ll see floating around online.
Why I Bought It
Honestly? I was desperate. I’ve been waking up with a dry mouth, my husband’s snoring was driving me up the wall, and I’d read about the benefits of nasal breathing at night. I tried the cheaper mouth tape strips before and they either fell off halfway through the night or felt like a giant sticker suffocating my face.
Hostage Tape had bold claims about sticking all night without irritation, so I ordered a pack and crossed my fingers.
How to Use Hostage Mouth Tape
It’s surprisingly simple:
- Wash and dry your mouth area.
- Peel a strip off the backing.
- Close your lips naturally.
- Place the tape horizontally over your mouth.
- Sleep.
In the morning, gently peel it off. The brand suggests applying it after brushing your teeth and before bed, and to start slow if you’re new to mouth taping.
My experience using this mouth tape for better sleep
Night 1:
Okay — I was nervous. I mean, taping your mouth shut feels weird no matter how you spin it. But it was surprisingly soft and stretchy. I applied it, laid down, and aside from a minor “what am I doing” moment, it was fine.
I didn’t wake up once during the night (a miracle), and it was still on when I woke up — no dry mouth, no drool, and no drama.
Night 3:
I was getting used to it. The tape felt less weird, and I noticed I wasn’t waking up as much. The dry mouth was gone. My husband also tested it (after some convincing) and swore he felt more rested.
After a Week:
I was sold on the benefits of nasal breathing at night. My sleep felt deeper, and I didn’t wake up feeling like I’d just crossed the Sahara. The tape didn’t irritate my skin or leave any sticky residue.
BUT…… It’s true it does help, but a year supply is $200 and 3M micropore tape is an extremely effective method for a small fraction of the price.
Pros
✔️ Super strong adhesive that stays on all night
✔️ Comfortable, flexible, and breathable material
✔️ No skin irritation or sticky aftermath
✔️ Helps prevent dry mouth and may reduce snoring
Cons
❌ More expensive than generic mouth tapes
❌ Not ideal for people with nasal congestion or breathing issues
❌ Single-use (wish they were a tad more eco-friendly)
Alternatives
If you’re curious but not ready to splurge, here are a few cheaper alternatives:
- 3M Micropore Tape (medical tape hack) – Affordable DIY option, though not as sleek
FAQ
Q: Is it safe to tape your mouth shut while sleeping?
A: For most healthy adults, yes — but it’s not recommended if you have breathing problems, severe nasal congestion, or certain medical conditions. Always check with your doctor if unsure.
Q: Does it hurt to take off?
A: Not at all. It peels off easily in the morning without pulling at your skin.
Q: Can you reuse a Hostage Tape strip?
A: No — it’s meant for single use only.
Q: Will it stop snoring completely?
A: It can help reduce snoring caused by mouth breathing but won’t help if the snoring is due to other issues like sleep apnea.
Final Thoughts
Hostage Tape Mouth tape genuinely impressed me. I was skeptical about sticking anything to my face overnight, but they were comfortable, stayed put, and actually improved my sleep experience.
Is it a miracle product? No. Is it a solid, premium option for people curious about mouth taping and better sleep? Absolutely.
If you’re ready to dip your toes into nasal breathing or looking for a snoring solution that doesn’t involve weird devices or sleep divorce, Hostage Tape is worth a try.