One of the simplest things you can do to protect your ability to hear is to use ear plugs. When these small devices are inserted into your ear canal, disruptive or dangerous sounds are blocked out. There are many types of ear plugs on the market, making shopping confusing for some people, but with a little knowledge you can find the right pair for your situation.
First of all, figure out how much noise reduction you need from your ear plugs. Every plug has a noise reduction rating (NRR) that signifies the amount of noise it cancels out, with the best quality ear plugs ranging from 21 to 33 decibels. Second, consider where and when you’ll use the ear plugs most often. If you need something to block out the noise of traffic or construction work while studying or working, a lower NRR plug will likely be sufficient. In contrast, you will need ear plugs with a higher NRR rating if your profession consistently puts you near loud equipment or music.
The composition of your ear plugs is another important factor to consider. The most basic material is foam. Foam ear plugs compress as they are pressed into the ear and expand slightly when released to plug the ear canal. Alternatively, silicone plugs are molded over the outside of the ear canal, allowing you to create a plug that fits your ear perfectly. Both silicone and foam plugs are intended to be disposed of after several uses.
Lastly, evaluate whether you’d be better served with non-disposable, custom ear plugs. While foam and silicone ear plugs are great for casual use, certain professions and situations warrant investing in specialized ear plugs. If you are a musician who is constantly exposed to loud music, you may want to look into custom-made, non-disposable earplugs. Because these plugs are custom made to fit your ear, they will block out dangerous noise while still allowing you to hear the music you are making.
A totally different use of ear plugs is to block out a partner’s snoring while sleeping. Ear plugs for sleeping are fairly advanced. They are able to block out the sounds of snoring while permitting you to hear your alarm clock or fire alarm. Try out these plugs with your head tilted to the side. This simulates the changes that take place in your ear canal while lying down, helping you determine whether the plugs will be comfortable while you are sleeping.
With a little time and consideration you should not have any difficulties finding the earplugs that are right for you.
