How to insert different kinds of earplugs

How to Insert Earplugs - Different Types of Earplugs

If you're interested in wearing earplugs to protect your hearing, then you'll want to know how to properly insert them.  If they're not inserted correctly, then they won't be effective. 

There are actually several different styles of earplugs to choose from, so you'll want to learn about each type of earplug and how to insert them correctly for proper hearing protection in the future. 

Another important reason to know how to properly insert earplugs is the fact that you could damage your eardrum when removing the earplug, if you do it incorrectly.  So, there is actually a little bit to learn just to be 100% sure that you're doing this properly. 

It's not as complicated as it might sound, but it's also not as easy. Once you learn, then it'll be easy.  Then you can decide which earplug would be right for you. 

You want to choose an earplug that is both comfortable and will offer you the right amount of protection, depending on what you plan on using them for.

How to Insert Different Types of Earplugs

Please Note:  The very first thing that you'll want to do before inserting any type of earplug is to wash your hands.

Disposable Foam Earplugs:  Grab the earplug by the larger end, holding the earplug between your thumb and forefinger.  Roll and squeeze the earplug until it's flat and crease-free.  With your free hand, grab the outer ear of the ear you plan on inserting the earplug in first and lift and pull the ear back.  Doing this opens up the ear canal. 

Next, you'll insert the earplug and if you have pulled your ear to the right angle it should slide in easily and after about 30 seconds or so, you'll know if it is snug enough or not.  And don't forget to dispose of them when you're finished using them. This type is not reusable. (All foam earplugs)

Moldable Wax Earplugs:  These earplugs are a great choice for sleep and snoring, blocking out noise and for swimming.  They are extremely comfortable and mold within any ear shape, guaranteeing a snug fit.To insert wax earplugs, you mash the earplugs between your thumb and forefinger until soft and pliable.

Then squash the earplug against your ear canal and push down to form a seal. (Note: Do not insert into the ear canal just squash against the ear canal) You'll want to pull your hair back and be careful with these earplugs, because they're tacky. 

Moldable Silicone Putty:  Putty earplugs are easy to use and are great for both swimming, sleeping and snoring.  To insert putty earplugs first mash the earplugs between your thumb and forefinger until soft and pliable. Then squash the earplug against your ear canal and push down to form a seal. (Note: Do not insert into the ear canal just squash against the ear canal) You'll want to pull your hair back and be careful with these earplugs, because they're tacky. 

Plastic Earplugs:  To insert a plastic earplug, hold the earplug by the stem and then insert the earplug very carefully into your ear canal.  You should feel a pressurized seal.  Do not force the ear plug and if you feel any discomfort, then you're doing it wrong, so please stop immediately.  You should not have to force the earplug for a comfy fit. 

Silicone Plugs:  Silicone earplugs are easy to insert because they come in various sizes and don't need to be rolled or molded.  They're a comfy fit and easy to insert.  Simply buy the size of your choice and slide them into your ears.

How to Know if You Inserted Your Earplugs Properly or Not

You can test the fit of your earplugs by testing them out in a noisy environment.  You can do this by cupping your hands over your ears.  If the earplugs fit properly, you should not notice a difference in the noise level.  If the noise level is less with your hands cupped over your ears, you might want to try again. Earplugs should never fall out by themselves so if they do you've put them in wrong and need to practice your technique. They should sit snugly in or against the ear canal.

Removal of Earplugs

This is a very important step!  It's a simple step but very important, so you'll want to do it right to not damage your eardrum. To remove any earplug grab the earplug and pull down very slowly and gently to break the seal before pulling the plug out. Do this slowly to break the seal so as to not damage your eardrum. Pulling earplugs out quickly without breaking the seal can damage the eardrum.  

And that's about it when it comes to properly inserting earplugs.  Follow these simple steps and rules and you'll be good to go and on your way to protecting your ears and your hearing to avoid future problems later in life.