Top 5 Meditation Apps For Relaxing Before Bed

Looking to wind down before sleep? Discover the top 5 meditation apps that help you relax, reduce anxiety, and fall asleep naturally—perfect for your bedtime routine.

Why Use Meditation Apps Before Bed?

Many people struggle to fall asleep due to racing thoughts, stress, or overexposure to screens.

Guided meditation before bed can be a powerful tool to calm your nervous system, reduce anxiety, and help you drift off more peacefully.

Instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV late into the night, try incorporating one of these top-rated apps into your nighttime routine to improve sleep quality and mental well-being.

1. Calm – Best Overall for Sleep & Relaxation

Features:

• Guided meditations tailored for sleep

• “Sleep Stories” narrated by soothing voices (including celebrities)

• Breathing exercises, calming music, and soundscapes

• Daily Calm sessions for stress relief

Why it’s great: Calm is ideal for anyone looking to reduce anxiety and prepare the mind for deep, restful sleep.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Pricing: Free version available; Premium from $69.99/year

2. Headspace – Best for Beginners

Features:

• Sleep-specific meditations and "Sleepcasts"

• Courses on stress, anxiety, focus, and happiness

• Scientifically-backed techniques taught in an easy, friendly tone

• Wind-down tools like ambient sounds and visualizations

Why it’s great: Headspace is beginner-friendly and offers a structured path for building a meditation habit.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Pricing: Free trial; Subscription starts at $69.99/year

3. Insight Timer – Best Free Option with Huge Library

Features:

• 150,000+ free meditations and music tracks

• Dedicated sleep section with bedtime meditations, ASMR, and soundscapes

• Timer feature for silent or custom meditations

• Live sessions and community groups

Why it’s great: Insight Timer is ideal if you want high-quality sleep content without paying for a subscription.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Pricing: Mostly free; optional Member Plus at $60/year

4. Breethe – Best for Full Sleep Support

Features:

• Guided bedtime meditations and hypnotherapy

• Sleep tracks for adults and kids

• Life coaching tools, stress relief, and breathing exercises

• “Go to Sleep” feature for immediate calm

Why it’s great: Breethe goes beyond meditation, offering a holistic approach to sleep and emotional health.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Pricing: Free trial; Premium starts at $12.99/month or $89.99/year

5. Ten Percent Happier – Best for Skeptics

Features:

• Science-based meditations from renowned teachers

• Sleep meditations and “Sleep Rewinds”

• Short, practical teachings for real-life stress

• Courses from neuroscientists, psychologists, and meditation experts

Why it’s great: Ten Percent Happier is perfect if you want no-fluff guidance with a skeptical, realistic approach to mindfulness.

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web Pricing: Free content available; Full access at $99.99/year

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking to manage stress, quiet your mind, or simply sleep better, these top 5 meditation apps provide powerful tools to transform your nightly routine. Most offer free trials, so you can explore what works best for your sleep style.

Try using one for just 10 minutes before bed—and notice the difference in how you fall asleep and how rested you feel in the morning.