FAQ
Got questions? Good. Here are the ones we get most often.
Frequently asked questions
Safety & Suitability
Is mouth tape safe to use while sleeping?
Yes. Sticky Mate mouth tape is made with a gentle, medical-grade adhesive that’s designed specifically for overnight use on skin. It holds your lips comfortably closed to encourage nasal breathing, but you can open your mouth if you need to, you’re never sealed shut.
That said, mouth tape isn’t for everyone. If you have a diagnosed breathing disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea, severe nasal obstruction, or any condition that affects your ability to breathe through your nose, please consult your doctor before using mouth tape. Your safety always comes first.
Can I still breathe if I need to open my mouth?
Yes, absolutely. Our mouth tape is designed to gently keep your lips together, not lock them shut. If you need to open your mouth during the night - to cough, yawn, or take a breath - you can. The adhesive allows you to part your lips when needed. Think of it as a gentle reminder to breathe through your nose, not a restraint.
Who should NOT use mouth tape?
Mouth tape is not suitable for everyone. You should not use it if you:
- Have obstructive sleep apnea (unless your doctor specifically approves it)
- Have a severely blocked nose that prevents you from breathing through your nostrils
- Are under the influence of alcohol or sedatives that impair your ability to wake up
- Are under 18 years old
If you’re unsure whether mouth tape is right for you, check with your healthcare provider first. We’d rather you be safe than sorry.
Is your mouth tape safe for sensitive skin?
We’ve designed our adhesive to be gentle on skin. It’s hypoallergenic and latex-free, which means it’s suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
If you’re prone to skin reactions, we recommend doing a small test first: apply a piece of tape to the inside of your wrist for 30 minutes and check for any irritation. If everything looks good, you’re ready to use it on your lips.
What is your mouth tape made of?
Our mouth tape is made with a soft, breathable material and a medical-grade, hypoallergenic adhesive. It’s latex-free and free from harsh chemicals. We chose these materials specifically because the tape goes on your face, comfort and skin safety are non-negotiable for us.
Should I talk to my doctor before using mouth tape?
If you’re generally healthy and can breathe comfortably through your nose, you can start using mouth tape without a medical consultation. However, if you have any diagnosed sleep disorders (especially sleep apnea), chronic nasal congestion, or respiratory conditions, we strongly recommend talking to your doctor first.
Mouth Tape
How does mouth tape work?
It’s simple: you place a single strip of tape across your lips before bed. The tape gently holds your mouth closed during sleep, which encourages your body to breathe through your nose instead.
Nasal breathing filters, warms, and humidifies the air you breathe. It also helps reduce snoring, improves oxygen uptake, and supports deeper, more restorative sleep. The tape does the nudging, your body does the rest.
How do I apply and remove mouth tape?
Applying: Make sure your lips are clean and dry. Peel off one strip and place it gently across your closed lips. That’s it, no special technique needed.
Removing: In the morning, slowly peel the tape from one corner. It comes off easily without pulling or irritation. If you want an even gentler removal, a splash of warm water on the tape loosens the adhesive instantly.
Does mouth tape work with a beard?
It can, but it depends on your beard length and thickness. On stubble and short beards, the tape generally sticks well enough to stay in place overnight. On longer or thicker beards, adhesion can be reduced.
Tip: apply the tape more to the skin of your lips than to the hair around them. Some bearded customers also find that a slightly smaller strip positioned right on the lip area works best. It may take a night or two to find your ideal placement.
What if my nose is blocked or congested?
If your nose is partially congested, try using a nasal strip alongside your mouth tape. The nasal strip opens your airways from the outside, making it much easier to breathe through your nose even when you’re a bit stuffy. This is exactly why we offer bundles with both products.
If your nose is completely blocked and you can’t breathe through it at all, skip the mouth tape until your congestion clears. Never use mouth tape if you can’t breathe comfortably through your nose.
How long does it take to get used to mouth tape?
Most people adjust within 1–3 nights. The first night might feel a little unusual, that’s completely normal. Your body just isn’t used to keeping its mouth closed during sleep yet.
If the first night feels too unfamiliar, try wearing the tape for an hour before bed while you’re still awake (reading, watching TV) to get comfortable with the sensation. By night two or three, most customers say they barely notice it.
Will mouth tape completely stop my snoring?
Mouth tape encourages nasal breathing, which can significantly reduce snoring caused by mouth breathing. Many of our customers report a noticeable improvement from the first night.
However, snoring can have multiple causes (nasal obstruction, sleep position, weight, sleep apnea), so we can’t guarantee it will eliminate snoring for everyone. If your snoring is severe or you suspect sleep apnea, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional.
Nasal Strips
How do nasal strips work?
Each nasal strip contains a flexible, spring-like band. When you apply the strip across the bridge of your nose, this band gently lifts and widens your nasal passages from the outside. The result is immediate: more airflow, easier breathing, and less resistance through your nose.
No drugs, no chemicals, no waiting time. You feel the difference the moment you put one on.
Where exactly should I place the nasal strip?
Place the strip across the middle of your nose, right on the area where your nostrils naturally flare. The strip should sit below the bony bridge of your nose and above the fleshy tip, this is where it can lift your nasal passages most effectively.
Make sure your nose is clean and dry before applying. Press the strip down firmly along the edges and hold for a few seconds to secure the adhesive.
Do nasal strips help with snoring?
They can, yes. If your snoring is related to restricted nasal airflow (which is one of the most common causes), nasal strips can make a real difference by opening up your nasal passages and reducing the resistance that contributes to snoring.
For the best results, many of our customers combine nasal strips with mouth tape. The strips open the airway; the tape keeps the mouth closed. Together, they create ideal conditions for quiet, nasal breathing throughout the night.
Can I use nasal strips during exercise or sports?
Absolutely. Nasal strips aren’t just for sleep. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts use them during training, running, cycling, or gym sessions to improve airflow and make breathing easier during intense activity. They stay on securely even during sweat and movement.
How long can I wear nasal strips?
Our nasal strips are designed for up to 12 hours of comfortable wear. Most customers wear them overnight (7–9 hours) with no issues. If you’re using them during the day for sports or congestion relief, the same timeframe applies. We recommend removing and replacing with a fresh strip after 12 hours.
Are nasal strips reusable?
No. Each strip is single-use. Once removed, the adhesive won’t stick effectively a second time, and reusing strips can compromise hygiene. For the best performance and comfort, use a fresh strip each time.
Using Both / Bundles
Should I use mouth tape, nasal strips, or both?
It depends on what you’re looking for, but honestly? Using both gives you the best results.
Here’s why: mouth tape keeps your mouth closed so you breathe through your nose. Nasal strips open your nasal passages so that nose breathing is easy and comfortable. Together, they create the ideal setup for uninterrupted nasal breathing all night long.
If you’re new to this, you can start with just one product and add the other later. But most of our returning customers end up using the combination.
Why should I buy a bundle instead of individual products?
Two reasons: better results and better value.
Our bundles include both mouth tape and nasal strips so you have the complete breathing setup from night one. And you’ll save compared to buying each product separately. It’s the easiest way to get started with everything you need.
Can I use mouth tape and nasal strips at the same time?
Yes, that’s actually how they work best. Apply the nasal strip to your nose first, then place the mouth tape across your lips. The nasal strip opens your airway, the mouth tape encourages you to use it. They’re designed to complement each other.
Ordering & Shipping
Where do you ship to?
We ship across Australia. Whether you’re in the Perth, Melbourne, or Sydney, we can get The Sticky Mate to your door. Shipping options and delivery times vary by destination.
How long does delivery take?
Within Australia, you can typically expect delivery within 5–7 business days. Depending on your location and local customs processing.
You’ll receive a tracking link once your order has shipped, so you can follow your package every step of the way.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping costs are free on all orders.
Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major payment methods including credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shopify Pay. You can see all available options at checkout.
Returns & Guarantees
What if the product doesn’t work for me?
We want you to be happy with your purchase. If our products aren’t right for you, contact us within 30 days of delivery and we’ll work with you to make it right. We believe in our products, and we want you to be able to try them without risk.
What is your return policy?
You have 30 days from the date of delivery to request a return. If you’re not satisfied with your order, reach out to our team via email or our contact page and we’ll guide you through the process. We aim to make returns as easy as the ordering experience.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us via email or through our contact page. We’re available Monday to Friday, 9:00–17:00, and we aim to respond within 24 hours on business days. We’re real people, and we’re happy to help with any question you have.