{"id":22877,"date":"2023-10-04T12:36:03","date_gmt":"2023-10-04T18:36:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/?p=22877"},"modified":"2024-01-16T11:24:09","modified_gmt":"2024-01-16T18:24:09","slug":"your-guide-to-finding-the-best-earplugs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/blog\/captioncall\/your-guide-to-finding-the-best-earplugs\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Guide to Finding the Best Earplugs\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"22877\" class=\"elementor elementor-22877\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-810c436 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"810c436\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4beec58 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"4beec58\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/01-EarplugShoppingVariety-of-Earplugs-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23102\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/01-EarplugShoppingVariety-of-Earplugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/01-EarplugShoppingVariety-of-Earplugs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/01-EarplugShoppingVariety-of-Earplugs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/01-EarplugShoppingVariety-of-Earplugs-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/01-EarplugShoppingVariety-of-Earplugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-967dc36 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"967dc36\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a667819 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a667819\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Your Guide to Finding the Best Earplugs (for Sleeping, Concerts, Shooting, Sensory Overload\u2026) <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5add7f2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-jet-listing-dynamic-meta\" data-id=\"5add7f2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"jet-listing-dynamic-meta.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"jet-listing jet-listing-dynamic-meta meta-layout-inline\"><div class=\"jet-listing-dynamic-meta__author jet-listing-dynamic-meta__item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/author\/oalvarez\/\" class=\"jet-listing-dynamic-meta__item-val\">Olivia Alvarez<\/a><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-baaad66 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"baaad66\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2837851 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2837851\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>There\u2019s a wide variety of earplugs on the market these days: different sizes, shapes, materials, and designs to suit a range of needs and situations. Some options are downright fashionable, as much accessories as they are functional. The broad selection means you can find earplugs to meet your specific needs, whether that\u2019s hearing protection or simply some peace and quiet.<\/p><p>The options can be overwhelming, so we\u2019ve broken it down and solicited a few audiologists\u2019 advice to simplify your decision. We\u2019ll cover considerations like:<\/p><ul><li><a href=\"#decibels\">using earplugs for hearing protection<\/a>\u00a0<\/li><li><a href=\"#nrr\">what is NRR?<\/a>\u00a0<\/li><li><a href=\"#types\">types of earplugs<\/a>\u00a0<\/li><li><a href=\"#usecases\">use cases:<\/a> earplugs for swimming, music, movies, shooting, swimming, and sensory overload<\/li><li><a href=\"#fitcomfort\">earplug fit and comfort<\/a>\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4337b8e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4337b8e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"decibels\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 aria-level=\"2\">Decibels and Hearing Damage: What Decibel Level is Harmful?\u00a0<\/h2><p>Let\u2019s start with the most obvious reason you\u2019d use earplugs: to protect your hearing in noisy environments.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>We measure noise in decibels (dB); the higher the decibels, the louder the noise. For example, a still winter day in the woods would probably register 10 \u2013 20 decibels. Compare that to a firetruck siren at 110 \u2013 130 decibels.\u00a0<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\" aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">dB vs dBA<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559738&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you start digging into the science of noise, you\u2019ll come across both dB and dBA. Without geeking out too hard, dB is a measurement of decibels that includes frequencies humans don\u2019t hear. To more accurately gauge the impact on our hearing, dBA is a weighted measurement of noise only in the range that humans can hear. That means the same sound can have a different dB and dBA.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3>What is Noise-induced Hearing Loss\u00a0<\/h3><p>As a general rule, anything below 70 decibels won\u2019t damage your hearing.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>Exposure to noise levels above that, however, can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. It\u2019s called noise-induced hearing loss, and it can result from exposure to a single loud noise or prolonged exposure to noise that damages the sensitive parts of your inner ear that process and transmit sound waves. \u00a0<\/p><p>Exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. <a href=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/blog\/captioncall\/hearing-loss-in-the-workplace\/#hhstatistics\">About 19% of the world\u2019s population has some degree of hearing loss<\/a>, and those numbers are rising. Researchers estimate as much as 24% of American adults and 17% of teenagers have some degree of noise-induced hearing loss.\u00a0<\/p><p>The higher the decibels, the shorter duration of exposure before you can damage your hearing. The following chart is a guideline for how long it takes for common noise levels to potentially cause hearing loss:\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-abb296e elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"abb296e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"694\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/02-EarplugShoppingChart-1024x888.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23104\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/02-EarplugShoppingChart-1024x888.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/02-EarplugShoppingChart-300x260.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/02-EarplugShoppingChart-768x666.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/02-EarplugShoppingChart-1536x1332.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/02-EarplugShoppingChart.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dfdd7f2 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"dfdd7f2\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b6da40f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b6da40f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"level\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The good news is hearing loss from noise exposure is 100% preventable, and even if you already have some noise-induced hearing loss, you can prevent further damage by using hearing protection, like earplugs.\u00a0<\/p><h2>At What Decibel Level is Hearing Protection Required?\u00a0<\/h2><p>You can gauge from the table above what decibel (dB) level is harmful. To avoid noise-induced hearing loss, you should use hearing protection for prolonged exposure to noise above 70 dB or even a short time in a very loud environment, like near a jackhammer.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>Of course, it\u2019s not realistic that you\u2019ll know exactly how loud your surroundings are all the time\u2026though, if you\u2019re interested, you can get decibel meter or sound level meter apps for your smartphone. SoundPrint \u2014 which is also on <a href=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/blog\/olelo\/best-hearing-loss-apps\/#soundprint8\/\">our list of best hearing loss app<\/a>s\u00a0\u2014 is one example which not only includes a decibel meter, but allows users to submit the noise level of different locations to help others find quiet locations.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9ca4e39 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"9ca4e39\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Do people with hearing loss need to wear earplugs? <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3e819c7 elementor-blockquote--skin-border elementor-widget elementor-widget-blockquote\" data-id=\"3e819c7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"blockquote.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote class=\"elementor-blockquote\">\n\t\t\t<p class=\"elementor-blockquote__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\u201cVolume never seems too loud to me. I have a hard time hearing as it is. Do I still need earplugs?\u201d  \t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/blockquote>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-40268ce elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"40268ce\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Yes. If you have hearing loss, wearing high-fidelity earplugs in noisy places can actually help reduce background noise to allow you to better hear your conversation or music. And wearing any variety of earplug will help prevent further hearing loss.\u00a0<\/p><p>If you\u2019re concerned about using earplugs for hearing protection because of your existing hearing loss, custom hearing protection from a hearing healthcare provider\/audiologist will be especially beneficial, and you may consider captioning as well. Live transcription apps for smartphones are also among <a href=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/blog\/olelo\/best-hearing-loss-apps\/\">our favorite hearing loss apps.<\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-be537b6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"be537b6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"nrr\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 aria-level=\"2\">Understanding Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)\u00a0<\/h2><p>An obvious place to start in choosing the right earplugs is with Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). It&#8217;s going to be essential to your decision, whether you\u2019re looking for earplugs for sleep, focus, or dangerous noise levels.\u00a0<\/p><h3>What is NRR?\u00a0<\/h3><p>Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a standardized measurement of the maximum amount a hearing protection device can reduce the intensity of noise (<a href=\"#fitcomfort\">when used correctly<\/a>), based on lab tests that factor in type of noise, frequency, and duration of exposure.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>Conveniently, you\u2019ll typically see NRR in decibels, so you can gauge whether an earplug will provide adequate noise reduction by subtracting its NRR from the noise level of your intended activity. For example:\u00a0<\/p><ul><li>If you&#8217;re on a motorcycle, with a noise level around 100 dB, and you&#8217;re wearing earplugs with an NRR of 30 dB, your noise exposure works out to 70 dB. That puts your exposure at a safe level even for prolonged riding.\u00a0<\/li><li>If you share a bedroom with a loud snorer who\u2019s sawing logs at 60 dB, and you\u2019re using earplugs with an NRR of 20 dB, that reduces your noise exposure to the equivalent of the soft hum of a refrigerator.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p>When your goal in using earplugs is hearing protection, you should aim for an NRR that will reduce your noise exposure to a safe level, ideally 70 dB or lower.\u00a0<\/p><h3>Maximum Possible NRR\u00a0<\/h3><p>If you\u2019re looking for earplugs with the highest NRR out there, you\u2019re going to top out around 33 dB. For most use cases, that\u2019s enough, but it won\u2019t reduce very loud noise \u2014 like gunfire, heavy machinery, or explosions \u2014 to safe exposure levels. But you have a couple options to better protect your hearing in very noisy environments.\u00a0<\/p><h3>Dual Hearing Protection\u00a0<\/h3><p>You can achieve an NRR above 33 decibels by combining two types of hearing protection. Most often, wearing foam earplugs and ear muffs together. However, when you double up on hearing protection, you don\u2019t double your NRR. Using a second type of hearing protection will add roughly 5 dB of additional NRR. So if you add ear muffs while wearing earplugs with an NRR of 33 dB, you could get up to 38 decibels of total noise reduction.\u00a0<\/p><h3>Limit Duration of Noise Exposure\u00a0<\/h3><p>If you can\u2019t reduce your noise exposure to safe levels, reduce your length of exposure. When the noise in your environment averages above 70 dB, try to limit the time you spend around it.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>For example, if you\u2019re on your laptop and a construction crew is working nearby, making a lot of noise, move to another location where the noise is lower. Another example from Sorenson\u2019s own audiologist Stephen DeMari: avoid positioning yourself right next to speakers at a concert; even with earplugs, that can be unpleasant.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7fcda6b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7fcda6b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"types\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 aria-level=\"2\">Types of Earplugs\u00a0<\/h2><p>Deciding on a type of earplug can be daunting. There are significant differences in NRR, comfort, and cost. To narrow down the selection, audiologist MarieAnn Z tells us her guidance is simple:\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5d8234e elementor-blockquote--skin-border elementor-widget elementor-widget-blockquote\" data-id=\"5d8234e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"blockquote.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote class=\"elementor-blockquote\">\n\t\t\t<p class=\"elementor-blockquote__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\u201cConsider the situation you will be using the hearing protection, your expectations for hearing in noise (like a concert versus a work environment).\u202fIs this something you will use daily, weekly, monthly?\u201d \t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/blockquote>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3e2f6b8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3e2f6b8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181656900 BCX0\">While you have dozens of options <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181656900 BCX0\">varying in style, material, and cost, they <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181656900 BCX0\">boil down to a few<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181656900 BCX0\"> basic categories:<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-152cdd4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"152cdd4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/03-EarplugShoppingFoam-Earplugs-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23106\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/03-EarplugShoppingFoam-Earplugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/03-EarplugShoppingFoam-Earplugs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/03-EarplugShoppingFoam-Earplugs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/03-EarplugShoppingFoam-Earplugs-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/03-EarplugShoppingFoam-Earplugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c6615ec elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c6615ec\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Foam earplugs\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Low tech, low cost, and effective. These soft foam cylinders are readily available over-the-counter and have some of the highest noise reduction ratings (NRR) of any earplugs out there. You tightly roll the squishy foam before inserting and let them expand in your ear canal. These don\u2019t play favorites with which sounds they block, so they make it difficult to hear speech (including your own) or music.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>NRR: up to 33 decibels\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p><strong>Pros:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"2\">excellent noise reduction ratings\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"2\">affordable and widely available over-the-counter\u00a0<\/li><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"2\">comfortable for extended use\u00a0<\/li><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"2\">available in disposable or reusable options\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cons:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\">some users experience discomfort or ear pressure\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\">may not fit perfectly in all ear canals\u00a0<\/li><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"6\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:1440,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\">not as \u201cgreen\u201d an option as long-term reusable varieties\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cost:<\/strong> typically $0.10 \u2013 $0.50 per pair for disposable options or $2 \u2013 $15 for a reusable pair, depending on the brand and features\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>NRR:<\/strong> 20 \u2013 33 dB when properly inserted\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f7d3773 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f7d3773\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/04-EarplugShoppingpre-molded-ear-plugs-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23108\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/04-EarplugShoppingpre-molded-ear-plugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/04-EarplugShoppingpre-molded-ear-plugs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/04-EarplugShoppingpre-molded-ear-plugs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/04-EarplugShoppingpre-molded-ear-plugs-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/04-EarplugShoppingpre-molded-ear-plugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1fdb189 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1fdb189\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Pre-molded earplugs\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>These reusable earplugs come in a variety of materials \u2014 plastic, rubber, or silicone \u2014 as well as several sizes and designs, including fashionable styles. They\u2019re easy to put in, with no rolling required, and may create less sensation of pressure in your ear than expanding foam.\u00a0<\/p><p>This category can include high-fidelity (hi-fi) earplugs, also called uniform-attenuation earplugs. They have the same effect as turning down the volume on a stereo: the sound intensity decreases evenly across different pitches, so it\u2019s not distorted. You might find high-fidelity earplugs especially helpful at movies or concerts so you can appreciate audio quality and speech.\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>Pros:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\">selection of sizes to better fit your ear canal\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\">reusable and easy to clean\u00a0<\/li><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\">some create a watertight seal, making them suitable for swimming\u00a0<\/li><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\">high-fidelity options\u00a0<\/li><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"7\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\">range of aesthetic options, including color and shape\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<strong>Cons:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>may be more expensive than other non-custom earplugs\u00a0<\/li><li>less noise reduction for extremely noisy environments\u00a0<\/li><li>some users find them less comfortable for extended wear\u00a0<\/li><li>it\u2019s possible for varieties <a href=\"https:\/\/www.consumerreports.org\/electronics-computers\/headphones\/how-to-remove-an-earbud-tip-stuck-in-your-ear-a2795490750\/\">with silicone tips to come loose and get stuck in your ear<\/a><\/li><\/ul><p>\u00a0<strong>Cost:<\/strong> may range from as low as $10 for basic options to as much as $50 for specialized and high-fidelity\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>NRR: 15 \u2013 25 dB\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e028c12 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e028c12\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/05-EarplugShoppingcanal-caps-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23110\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/05-EarplugShoppingcanal-caps-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/05-EarplugShoppingcanal-caps-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/05-EarplugShoppingcanal-caps-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/05-EarplugShoppingcanal-caps-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/05-EarplugShoppingcanal-caps.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-65bb9a7 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"65bb9a7\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-29d7515 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"29d7515\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Canal caps\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Canal caps come in both pre-molded and formable varieties. You can even get custom-made canal caps as well as over-the-counter. Their distinguishing features is a stiff band that applies light pressure to hold the earplugs in place while inserted, and when not in use can hang around your neck. That makes them a popular choice among users who alternate between needing hearing protection in noisy environments and needing to hear clearly.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>Because canal caps can include both off-the-shelf or custom options as well as formable or molded earplugs, cost and NRR will vary.\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>Pros:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>a snug and secure fit\u00a0<\/li><li>multiple options for different use cases\u00a0<\/li><li>custom and off-the-shelf varieties available\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cons:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>may be more expensive than basic foam earplugs\u00a0<\/li><li>limited size and shape options mean some users find them less comfortable for extended wear\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cost:<\/strong> a wide cost range, depending on features, intended use, and whether you opt for custom canal caps. Off-the-shelf, you may find a pair for as little as $5, while custom options may cost up $100 \u2013 $500.\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>NRR:<\/strong> varies by fit and material\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-67fd2c1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"67fd2c1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/06-EarplugShoppingwax-ear-plugs-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23112\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/06-EarplugShoppingwax-ear-plugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/06-EarplugShoppingwax-ear-plugs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/06-EarplugShoppingwax-ear-plugs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/06-EarplugShoppingwax-ear-plugs-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/06-EarplugShoppingwax-ear-plugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7577cad e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"7577cad\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-af7d6b1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"af7d6b1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Wax or silicone putty earplugs\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Wax or silicone putty earplugs are the most pliable variety of hearing protection, allowing you to shape them to your ears for a comfortable fit and a tight seal. However, wax or silicone isn\u2019t the best material to insert into your ear canal, which limits the effectiveness of this type of earplug for noise reduction. Audiologist Stephen DeMari points out they\u2019re still a better option than no hearing protection at all or shoving cotton or tissue in your ears.\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>Pros:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>mold to the shape of your ear, so you can adjust fit\u00a0<\/li><li>can create a watertight seal for swimming and water-related activities\u00a0<\/li><li>soft for comfortable use while sleeping\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cons:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>less effective in very noisy environments\u00a0<\/li><li>some risk of melting in ear canal\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cost:<\/strong> typically $2 \u2013 $10\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>NRR:<\/strong> 20-25 dB\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-95cb036 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"95cb036\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/07-EarplugShoppingCustom-earplugs-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23115\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/07-EarplugShoppingCustom-earplugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/07-EarplugShoppingCustom-earplugs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/07-EarplugShoppingCustom-earplugs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/07-EarplugShoppingCustom-earplugs-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/07-EarplugShoppingCustom-earplugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7fcedab e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"7fcedab\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-48cf233 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"48cf233\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Custom molded earplugs\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Custom earplugs from a hearing health professional are the top-tier option for hearing protection and comfort. The provider will take a mold of your ears to create a perfect fit for your ears specifically. You can also tailor the design, NRR, and noise filtering for your intended usage \u2014 for everything from sleep to construction work. Custom fit earplugs also typically allow you to choose their color, even including options like glitter, glow-in-the-dark, or marbling effects.\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>Pros:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>ideal fit for maximum comfort\u00a0<\/li><li>fully customizable to your intended use and NRR needs\u00a0<\/li><li>high-fidelity options\u00a0<\/li><li>lower risk of getting stuck in ears\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cons:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>more expensive than most off-the-shelf options\u00a0<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cost:<\/strong> $100 \u2013 $300+\u00a0<\/p><p><strong>NRR:<\/strong> 15 \u2013 33 dB\u00a0<\/p><p>If you consult a hearing health professional for custom hearing protection, you may also want to take the opportunity to test your hearing. If you already have some degree of hearing loss, an audiologist can recommend a holistic plan to protect you from further hearing loss and improve your day-to-day hearing as well.\u00a0<\/p><p>If you have hearing loss that\u2019s affecting your ability to use the phone and you need captions for your calls, your hearing health provider may suggest you sign up for no-cost phone call captioning using the <a href=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/captioned-calls\/captioncall-mobile\/\">CaptionCall Mobile app by Sorenson<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/captioned-calls\/captioncall\/\">CaptionCall by Sorenson for home phone.<\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8b94e53 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"8b94e53\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/08-EarplugShoppingnoise-canceling-earplugs-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-23117\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/08-EarplugShoppingnoise-canceling-earplugs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/08-EarplugShoppingnoise-canceling-earplugs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/08-EarplugShoppingnoise-canceling-earplugs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/08-EarplugShoppingnoise-canceling-earplugs-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/08-EarplugShoppingnoise-canceling-earplugs.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bea24d2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bea24d2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Noise cancelling earplugs\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>In addition to conventional earplugs that physically block noise (noise reducing earplugs), you also have the option to tap into digital technology in the form of noise cancelling earbuds. These electronically cancel out specific frequencies, like the hum of an airplane engine or the hubbub of a busy location. Because they can connect to your devices, noise cancelling earplugs will also allow you to listen to audio through them while they remove background noise around you <span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u2014 earplug headphones.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><strong>Pros:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>counteracts bothersome frequencies<\/li><li>double as earphones for listening to audio<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cons:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><ul><li>cost is higher than many other off-the-shelf earplugs and may be more expensive even than custom earplugs<\/li><li>don\u2019t protect hearing from sudden loud noises<\/li><li>require batteries or charging<\/li><li>limited size and shape options mean some users find them less comfortable for extended wear<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Cost:<\/strong> can range from $50 to $300+, depending on brand and features<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-795b997 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"795b997\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"usecase\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 aria-level=\"2\">Choosing the Right Earplugs for Specific Use Cases<\/h2><p><strong>Earplugs for Sleeping\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Comfort is critical when choosing earplugs for sleeping, and comfort will come down to a <a href=\"#fitcomfort\">combination of material and fit<\/a>. You\u2019re likely to have the best luck with a soft material: foam, silicone, or wax.<\/p><p>Audiologist Marnie R. recommends that if you\u2019re using earplugs primary for sleeping, size and shape are also worth considering:<\/p><p>\u201cSleeping plugs are most comfortable if they are made CIC style, just in the canal. The material should be somewhat softer than a standard earplug, so as not to cause discomfort if you are a side sleeper.\u201d<\/p><p>To decide on an NRR, consider whether you want near-silence or need to be able to hear some sounds. For example, if you want to be able to hear a crying baby or are worried you won\u2019t wake up to your alarm, you might choose an NRR in the mid to upper teens versus an NRR of 25 or above if you\u2019re a light sleeper trying to drown out city noise or you share a room with someone who snores.<\/p><p>You can also try noise canceling earplugs for sleeping, but the firmer material may not be comfortable for side sleepers.<\/p><p><strong>Earplugs for Concerts, Musicians, and Movie Theaters\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>High-fidelity (hi-fi), or uniform attenuation, earplugs are going to be your best bet when you want to clearly hear audio while lowering the noise level. Pre-molded or custom fit earplugs offer this option, using filters to preserve sound quality and still lowering your noise exposure to prevent hearing damage.<\/p><p>For musicians or people who frequently attend concerts or movies, custom earplugs may be worth the investment for a perfect fit plus the ability to tailor them to your specifications for sound filtering.<\/p><p>As far as the NRR of earplugs for concerts, the decibel level of indoor live music can easily be more than 100 decibels, so you won\u2019t regret an NRR of 25 of higher.<\/p><p><strong>Earplugs for Shooting\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>When you\u2019re looking for earplugs for the shooting range,<a href=\"#nrr\"> go for maximum NRR<\/a>. Either foam earplugs or custom earplugs with an NRR of 30+ are a must, and earmuffs on top of them is a good idea.<\/p><p>For hunting, it\u2019s still important to protect your ears from the damaging decibel levels of gunfire, but it\u2019s understandable you do want to be able to hear other sounds around you. Some companies make specialized electronic earplugs that can activate noise suppression when they detect loud noise, but amplify ambient sound when it\u2019s quiet so you can hear what you need to.<\/p><p><strong>Earplugs for Focus, Sensory Overload, and Audio Sensitivity (Hyperacusis and Misophonia)<\/strong><\/p><p>Individuals with sensory sensitivities, hyperacusis, or misophonia \u2014 including some people with autism or ADHD \u2014 notice significant benefit from using earplugs to reduce sensory overload or improve focus by blocking distracting noise.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\" aria-level=\"4\"><strong><i>What is Hyperacusis? What is Misophonia? And What\u2019s the Difference?<\/i>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hyperacusis is a heightened sensitivity to even everyday sounds that makes them seem louder to you than to everyone else, even to the point of hurting your ears.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:1440}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Misophonia is an extreme dislike of certain noises, even at a normal volume, to the point that hearing them makes you agitated or downright angry. For example, hearing other people chew.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:1440}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you deal with hyperacusis or misophonia earplugs can stifle offending noises and offer a little peace.<\/span><\/p><p>Because you\u2019re likely to wear these regularly and potentially for extended periods, comfort is likely to be a priority. Your most comfortable option is custom earplugs.<\/p><p>For a less expensive choice, foam, wax, or silicone putty earplugs are soft and bendable to the shape of your ear. These will block or muffle all noise, which may be exactly what you want.<\/p><p>You may prefer to block distracting or overstimulating ambient noise while still being able to clearly hear music or someone speaking to you, making high-fidelity custom or pre-molded varieties your best choice.<\/p><p>If your intended use is noise sensitivity and not hearing protection, noise cancelling earplugs may also work well for you.<\/p><p><strong>Earplugs for Swimming\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Swimming earplugs have one job: create a watertight seal to keep water out of your ears. But that doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t put them to work on two fronts. The best earplugs for swimming can also offer hearing protection to extend their usefulness.<\/p><p>Custom earplugs, wax, or well-fitting pre-molded earplugs can all seal off your ear canal from water. The custom or pre-molded route are reusable and can also offer hearing protection, so they\u2019re an investment you\u2019ll get double use of.<\/p><p>Just a one-off need because you forgot your molded earplugs? Wax or silicone putty are affordable and can do the job. Avoid foam earplugs for swimming because they\u2019ll act like a sponge in the water.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5437975 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5437975\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"fitcomfort\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 aria-level=\"2\">Earplug Fit and Comfort\u00a0<\/h2><p>Remember that the effectiveness of earplugs also depends on proper fit and usage. No matter how much you spend on a set of earplugs or how high the NRR, they\u2019re not going to give you the results you want if the fit isn\u2019t right or you don\u2019t have them inserted correctly.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p><p>Audiologist Marnie R. says nothing is more important than getting the right fit on your earplugs for comfort and effectiveness:\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a709b89 elementor-blockquote--skin-border elementor-widget elementor-widget-blockquote\" data-id=\"a709b89\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"blockquote.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<blockquote class=\"elementor-blockquote\">\n\t\t\t<p class=\"elementor-blockquote__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\u201cI work with an office that does almost as much hearing protection as we do hearing aids. What we have found is that for those wanting hearing protection for hunting\/concerts\/construction...etc, the fit is extremely important\u2026Custom built hearing protection works so much better than foam earplugs.\u201d \n\n \t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/blockquote>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b337179 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b337179\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Without investing in custom hearing protection, you can opt for foam earplugs or wax\/silicone putty for their ability to form to the shape of your ear. The softness of the material means nearly anyone can squish the material to fit their ears.<\/p><p>With any earplugs, proper insertion will make or break their noise reduction and comfort. With foam plugs in particular, it\u2019s important to follow the instructions, twisting them down to the narrow width you can fit in your ear canal and then letting them expand in your ear. Earplugs that comfortably fit deep in your ear canal will provide the most sound reduction.<\/p><p>DeMari suggests looking in a mirror or asking someone to look at you straight on. If your earplugs are visibly sticking out, they\u2019re not in correctly.<\/p><p>Even in the case of fashionable pre-molded earplugs designed to be visible, they shouldn\u2019t be hanging out of your ears. If you can\u2019t wear them securely without discomfort, they\u2019re not a good fit. Because no two people\u2019s ears are quite the same size and shape, a molded earplug that comfortably fits someone else won\u2019t necessarily fit you.<\/p><p><span lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\">Material makes a difference not only in fit and use case, but also if you have allergies to plastics, silicone, or latex. If you have allergies to these common earplugs materials, you can ask a doctor or audiologist about alternative options.<\/span><\/p><p><strong>Where to Get Earplugs\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p>Ultimately, the best choice of where to buy earplugs is going to come down to how you plan to use them.<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><strong>From a hearing health provider<\/strong><\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">All of the audiologists we talked to agree that custom molded earplugs from a hearing health professional will give you the best fit for comfort and effective noise reduction. So for regular use \u2014 or if you struggle with earplugs that don\u2019t fit your ears \u2014 they may be worth the investment.<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">To find a hearing health care provider, you can search through your health insurance directory, especially if you want to establish a relationship for hearing health care.<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">You can also look for providers in your area using an online directory like the one through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthyhearing.com\/hearing-aids\">Healthy Hearing to browse thousands of hearing health clinics<\/a>.<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\" aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Off-the-shelf\u00a0<\/strong><\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">However, off-the-shelf options are perfectly acceptable for one-time or occasional use. You can find foam earplugs at a wide variety of retailers: hardware stores, pharmacies, department store chains, even some convenience stores carry them.<\/p><p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">There\u2019s a large selection of pre-molded earplugs and noise canceling earplugs online, but you can also find options from big box retail stores and specialty music stores.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your Guide to Finding the Best Earplugs (for Sleeping, Concerts, Shooting, Sensory Overload\u2026) Olivia Alvarez There\u2019s a wide variety of earplugs on the market these days: different sizes, shapes, materials, and designs to suit a range of needs and situations. Some options are downright fashionable, as much accessories as they are functional. The broad selection [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":23694,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jet_sm_ready_style":"","_jet_sm_style":"","_jet_sm_controls_values":"","_jet_sm_fonts_collection":"","_jet_sm_fonts_links":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[213],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-22877","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-captioncall"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22877","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22877"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22877\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23694"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22877"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22877"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/es.sorenson.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22877"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}