Earplugs

The best earplugs are those we have readily available, find comfortable, and actually wear when needed.

Earplugs are a simple, effective way to reduce noise exposure and protect hearing. There are so many styles and types available, at various price points, and with many reusable. So just like we may have many pairs of sunglasses ready to use, let’s keep a pair or two everywhere we might need them—in our bag, on our key chain, in our glove compartment.

Earplugs are inserted into the ear canal and can help prevent hearing loss and tinnitus from loud noises. A 2016 study showed that when used correctly earplugs had a noise reduction rate of 18 decibels and were effective in preventing premature hearing loss and ringing in the ears.

According to the Hearing Professionals of Illinois, ear protection needs to be worn when you are at risk of being exposed to loud noises. This includes at concerts or when playing music, when using power tools like lawn mowers, and when living or working in a noisy area, like near a construction site or busy traffic areas.

Earplugs 101

The “NRR” number on a package of earplugs indicates the noise reduction rating. The higher the number, the more decibels it reduces. But if the NRR is too high for your sound environment, we’re more likely to take the earplugs out (and maybe lose them in a dark nightclub!), so try out a few and see what works for different settings.