If you want to know how to stop snoring but are not ready for medical intervention, snoring aids might offer some relief. However, most of these aids take time to work, so patience has to be exercised. Some popular snoring aids available over-the-counter include mouth sprays, nasal strips and ergonomically designed pillows, all aimed at reducing nasal or throat congestion or aligning your upper airways and vertebra to relieve pressure and promote smooth air flow.

Other sufferers prefer using an external snoring aid instead of one placed in the mouth. Chin Straps and Jaw Supporting Chin Straps are a popular range of devices that gently keep the mouth closed and airways open. Some opt for Chin Cushions that rest under the chin as the name suggests and keep the mouth shut while sleeping, or Chin-Up Strips. All these snoring aids prevent the tongue from falling back into the throat obstructing breathing.

Nasal snoring aids are devised to keep nostrils clear. Their premise is that stuffy or blocked noses make it harder to breathe and cause snoring.  Popular nasal snoring aids include Nasal Strips that advocate using a plastic piece over the nose to keep nostrils open; Nasal Braces that are inserted in the nostrils to prop them open; Nasal Clips that pinch the nostrils; and decongestants to clear stuffiness. However, many decongestants can cause reverse stuffiness when their effect wears off.

Some oral snoring aids include snoring pills and mouth sprays that claim to reduce mucous secretions and swelling and inflammation in nostrils and upper airways, making breathing easier. ‘Continuous Positive Airway Pressure’ or CPAP is a medically-advised snoring aid that ensures a steady stream of air into the throat and prevents airways from collapsing. It is effective for sleep apnea sufferers.

There is a plethora of snoring aids for occasional sufferers. These include ear plugs that are actually meant for others sleeping nearby. Bio Feedback watches is another device that is strapped on the wrist by the snorer and emits a mild pulse whenever the wearer snores, forcing him or her to change position. Orthopedic pillows and mattresses are also popular snoring aids. 

Passive snoring aids have their own advocates. Hypnosis is one such therapy that claims to cure the problem by making positive suggestions to the subconscious mind.  Some believe that a white noise generator can also help and others swear by the healing powers of Olbas oil.