Hearing protection

Guide to earplugs and ear protectors: types, uses and tips

Last updated on:

Reading time: 4 mins

Author: EarPros Team

Earplugs and hearing protectors are essential items to preserve our hearing in situations of exposure to noise, water or humidity. It is important to protect and care for your hearing in a comfortable and practical way. In this guide, we will explore the different types of earplugs for hearing protection available, as well as their applications and how to choose the right ones for your needs.

Types of earplugs by material

The choice of earplug material plays a crucial role in their effectiveness and comfort. Below, we will explore the different types of earplugs according to the material they are made of and the situations in which they are most suitable:

Wax earplugs

Wax earplugs, although uncommon, are noted for their versatility, comfort and low likelihood of causing allergies. These earplugs fit snugly in the ear and are ideal for prolonged use, especially during sleep, due to their ability to continuously adapt to the ear canal.

Silicone earplugs

Silicone earplugs fit easily in the ear canal and are especially recommended for use during sleep. They are easy to insert and remove, forming an airtight seal on the outside of the ear canal for efficient protection. Within the silicone earplugs category, some are more mouldable and are made of soft silicone, making them hypoallergenic. These are ideal for swimmers, as they can be immersed in water without any problems.

Foam earplugs

Most earplugs are made of foam, and their main advantage is their malleability. These earplugs are ideal for reducing the volume in everyday situations where the noise is not too loud, such as in a football stadium, or for falling asleep in noisy ambient conditions. To use them correctly, it is important to fit them properly in the ear canal. However, care should be taken, as improper fitting can cause them to protrude and not provide the necessary protection.

Custom-molded earplugs

Custom-molded earplugs represent a highly efficient and personalised solution for hearing protection. These earplugs adapt perfectly to the unique shape of your ear canal, offering an optimal fit and exceptional protection against unwanted noise. While purchasing standard earplugs is a quick and affordable process, in certain situations, such as for people with irregular ear canals or specific needs, custom earplugs are the right choice. They are ideal for musicians, hunters, swimmers and anyone who wants a hearing solution tailored to their specific needs.

Types of earplugs according to use

Earplugs are divided into different categories according to their intended use. Here, we'll explore some of the most common applications:

Disposable earplugs

Disposable earplugs are practical for situations where temporary hearing protection is needed, such as noisy events or concerts. They provide isolation and comfort for short periods of time.

Reusable earplugs

Reusable earplugs are ideal for situations where regular hearing protection is needed. They are comfortable and offer good value for money and are suitable for activities such as sleeping or working in noisy environments.

Banded earplugs

Banded earplugs are a versatile option that allow effective communication while protecting your hearing. They are ideal for workers who need to remove and insert earplugs frequently during their working day.

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Types of earplugs by purpose

Earplugs are also differentiated according to their specific hearing protection purpose. Below, we will explore some important categories:

Earplugs for sleeping and snoring

Earplugs for sleeping and snoring are essential if you have difficulty falling asleep due to noise. They provide a quiet and restful environment, ensuring optimal sleep.

They are high precision devices designed to provide a quiet and undisturbed sleep environment. Made of quality materials such as silicone or foam, they fit securely into the ear canal, providing exceptional sound insulation.

They use ergonomic design and advanced noise cancelling technology to effectively block unwanted ambient noise such as snoring. These earplugs ensure a restful and undisturbed sleep, making them the ideal solution for improving sleep quality and enjoying a noise-free environment.

Swimming earplugs

Swimming and pool earplugs are essential accessories for those who enjoy water activities. Designed specifically to protect the ears from water, earplugs for swimmers are highly effective in preventing fluid from entering the ear canal. Made of high quality waterproof materials, such as silicone, they ensure a tight seal that keeps water out, thus reducing the risk of infections and otitis externa. Swimming earplugs are the ideal choice for those who want to enjoy their favourite water activities without worrying about potential ear problems, providing reliable protection and comfort in the water.

Guide to swimming earplugs

Shooting earplugs

Shooting and hunting earplugs are an essential tool for those who participate in activities that involve shooting. These earplugs are designed with a focus on hearing protection, reducing noise levels to safe levels without compromising communication or perception of the environment. Some models are equipped with noise-cancelling technology that instantly muffles the sounds of intense gunfire, providing a more comfortable and safer experience. Hunters and shooters can choose between reusable and disposable earplugs according to their specific needs.

Shooting ear protection

Surf earplugs

Surfing earplugs are crucial elements in hearing protection for those who enjoy water sports such as surfing, kitesurfing and swimming in the sea or pool. These earplugs play an essential role in preventing ear infections and the dreaded "exostosis" or "surfer's ear", a medical condition resulting from abnormal bone growth in the ear canal due to repeated exposure to cold, salt water. This condition can lead to hearing problems and, in severe cases, even require surgery. Surf earplugs, designed specifically for this purpose, effectively protect the ear from the ingress of water, cold air, dirt and bacteria present in the water, while allowing for proper hearing and effective communication in the aquatic environment. They are comfortable, mouldable and available in a variety of styles and materials, making them a smart choice for maintaining optimal hearing health when playing water sports.

Earplugs for work

Earplugs for work are essential devices in noisy work environments where hearing protection is essential. These earplugs, also known as ear protectors or earmuffs, are specifically designed to completely isolate noise, ensuring the hearing safety of workers. Their use is mandatory in accordance with occupational safety regulations, such as Royal Decree 286/2006, which establishes preventive and control measures for the protection of the health of employees in places where daily noise levels exceed 85 dB. Work earplugs, available from various brands such as 3M, offer an effective barrier against constant noise and provide comfort during long working hours. Making the right choice from the different types of earplugs and ear protectors available on the market ensures that workers are optimally protected against the harmful effects of noise in the workplace.

Earplugs for concerts

Earplugs for concerts are an essential accessory for live music lovers. They are specifically designed to protect the hearing of people attending concerts, festivals and live music events, where sound levels can reach potentially damaging levels for the human ear. These earplugs, often made of high quality materials such as silicone or foam, are designed to attenuate the volume of sound without distorting the quality of the music. They provide a safe listening experience by reducing the risk of long-term hearing damage, such as noise-induced hearing loss. Concert earplugs allow fans to enjoy live music responsibly and without compromising the quality of their musical experience.

Earplugs for musicians

Musicians' earplugs are essential devices for those working in the music industry looking to protect their hearing while maintaining optimal sound performance. These earplugs are designed specifically for musicians and offer uniform sound attenuation, preserving the clarity and quality of live music. Unlike conventional earplugs, musicians' earplugs do not distort sound, allowing performers to accurately perceive every note and musical nuance. In addition, they are comfortable to wear for long periods of time and are available in different levels of attenuation to suit various musical situations. Musicians who wear protective earplugs, including earplugs for drummers, can enjoy their passion without putting their hearing at risk, making them an invaluable tool for preserving hearing health throughout their career.

Earplugs for babies and kids

Earplugs designed for babies and kids are essential devices for safeguarding the hearing health of young children. These earplugs, made of moulded, hypoallergenic silicone, offer effective protection for children's inner ear canal. They are especially useful in situations where children may be exposed to loud noise or risk irritation from external agents such as water, chlorine or dust. Preventing hearing problems from an early age is essential, and these earplugs provide a safe barrier against these factors. In addition, teaching children to wear earplugs during noisy activities, such as attending concerts or sporting events, helps to instil healthy habits that protect their hearing throughout their lives.

Earplugs for airplane pressure

Earplugs designed specifically for air travel are an effective solution to prevent barotrauma and protect hearing during take-off and landing. Made of flexible hypoallergenic silicone, these earplugs incorporate a pressure-regulating filter that allows a gradual exchange of air, helping the eardrum to adapt smoothly to pressure fluctuations without causing discomfort. In addition to their pressure equalisation function, these earplugs feature a special filter that attenuates unpleasant noises present during the flight, providing a more comfortable and quieter ride. Ear pressure, which can be uncomfortable during take-off and landing, is carefully controlled, thanks to the pressure equalisation filters, which reduce the noise levels of the aircraft's engine and turbine. These earplugs offer high wearing comfort and exceptional sound quality, as well as acting as an effective passive noise insulator. They are ideal for frequent flyers who want to protect their hearing and enjoy an undisturbed flight.

Diving earplugs

When it comes to water activities such as scuba diving, ear protection is essential, as water can enter and cause discomfort or even ear infections. For those who enjoy exploring the deep sea or simply swimming on the surface, earplugs designed specifically for water are a key solution. These earplugs allow for a comfortable experience by eliminating the sensation of clogged ears while preventing water from entering the ear canal. In addition, for more experienced divers who face significant pressure changes during their dives, these earplugs offer additional relief by allowing the ears to compensate naturally without putting the eardrum at risk. These earplugs are recommended by water sports doctors and help to maintain the pH balance in the ear, thus preventing possible infections.

Earplugs for autism

Earplugs for autism are specialized hearing protection devices designed to provide sensory relief and comfort to individuals on the autism spectrum who may experience heightened sensitivity to noise and auditory stimuli. These earplugs are crafted with the unique needs of autistic individuals in mind, offering a means to regulate and control their exposure to sound in various environments. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, designed to fit comfortably and securely in the ears. Earplugs for autism can be especially beneficial in situations where sensory overload can occur, such as crowded places, loud events, or during periods of heightened stress or anxiety. By offering a way to manage auditory stimuli, these earplugs can contribute to a more controlled and soothing sensory experience for individuals with autism, helping them better navigate their surroundings and improve their overall well-being.

How to choose the right earplugs

1. Level of protection needed

Determine the amount of hearing protection you need based on noise exposure. Earplugs with a high level of attenuation are ideal for very noisy environments.

2. Comfort

Comfort is critical, especially if you plan to wear your earplugs for long periods of time. Custom-made earplugs are often the most comfortable, as they fit snugly in your ear.

3. Durability

If you're looking for a long-term solution, choose durable, long-lasting earplugs. Materials such as silicone and rubber tend to be more durable than foam.

4. Intended use

Consider the context in which you will use the earplugs and choose a type that suits your specific needs, whether for swimming, sleeping, work or sports.

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How to insert ear plugs

Step by step

Putting in earplugs correctly is essential to ensure their effectiveness and comfort.

Hand washing: First, make sure your hands are clean to avoid any contamination.
Ear preparation: Next, gently pull your earlobe up and out to straighten the ear canal.
Inserting the earplug: Carefully place the earplug into the ear canal, making sure it is well sealed.
Adjust if necessary: If the earplugs are adjustable, adjust them as needed to achieve a tight seal.
Check hearing: Once they are properly fitted, you should be able to hear sounds without echoes or a feeling of blocked ears.
Avoid touching: It is essential not to touch the earplugs after inserting them, unless you need to adjust them.

By following these steps, earplugs will provide effective protection against noise or water, depending on their intended use.

How to clean earplugs

Regularly cleaning your earplugs is essential to maintain their effectiveness and prevent possible infections. To do so, follow these simple steps:

Gently remove the earplugs: Gently pull them out of your ears.
Wash with warm water and soap: Use warm water and mild soap to clean the earplugs. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the material of the earplugs.
Rinse thoroughly: Be sure to remove any soap residue by rinsing the stoppers thoroughly with warm water.
Dry thoroughly: Use a clean towel or tissue to dry the earplugs completely before putting them away again.
Store them properly: Store earplugs in a clean, dry case when not in use to avoid contamination.

By following these regular cleaning steps, your earplugs will stay in good condition and provide the protection you need for longer.

Are earplugs bad for your ears?

Earplugs themselves are not inherently bad, but improper or excessive use can have negative effects. On the one hand, earplugs are useful tools to protect the ears from excessive noise, water or wind, and are especially beneficial in noisy environments or during water activities. However, excessive or improper use can lead to problems such as earwax build-up, ear infections or injury if not applied correctly. In addition, using earplugs with the volume of music at dangerously high levels can increase the risk of hearing damage. In summary, earplugs are beneficial when used properly for their intended purpose, but it is important to follow the recommendations and guidelines to avoid potential complications.

How many decibels can earplugs block?

The extent to which earplugs can block decibels depends on various factors, including the type of earplugs, their design, and how well they fit in the ears. On average, most earplugs can provide a noise reduction of 15 to 35 decibels (dB). Foam earplugs, for instance, can offer around 30 dB of noise reduction, making them effective for reducing sound levels in everyday situations. However, custom-molded earplugs, designed to fit precisely to an individual's ear canal, can achieve even higher levels of noise reduction, often exceeding 35 dB. It's important to note that proper insertion and a secure fit play a crucial role in maximizing the effectiveness of earplugs. Additionally, the specific noise reduction rating (NRR) of earplugs should be considered, as it provides a standardized measure of their noise-blocking capabilities. Ultimately, the choice of earplugs should align with the level of noise reduction required for a given environment or activity.

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