Hearing protection: how to protect your ears

Noise can damage hearing faster than you think. A loud concert, a day on a construction site, or even repeated exposure to lawn equipment can add up. This page gives clear, real-world tips so you can choose and use protection that actually works.

When you need protection and why it matters

Any sound at or above 85 dB is risky if you’re exposed for hours. A simple rule: each 3 dB increase halves the safe exposure time. That means 88 dB is twice as harmful as 85 dB. OSHA and NIOSH set exposure limits to help workplaces, but you can use the same ideas at concerts, on the farm, or in your garage. If you notice ringing (tinnitus) or muffled hearing after noise, that’s a sign you weren’t protected enough.

How to pick the right protector

There are three common choices: disposable foam earplugs, reusable silicone or molded plugs, and over‑the‑ear earmuffs. Check the NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) on the package. NRR tells you the maximum lab-tested reduction, not the real-world drop. A quick way to estimate real benefit: subtract 7 from the NRR, then divide by 2. For example, an NRR 30 might give around 11–12 dB in everyday use.

Pick foam plugs for one-off noisy events and short jobs. They’re cheap and effective when inserted right: roll thin, pull your ear up and back, push the plug in, and hold for 20–30 seconds while it expands. Reusable plugs or molded custom plugs fit better and are more comfortable if you need protection every day. Earmuffs are easy to put on and work well with glasses. For very loud, short blasts (like shooting), use double protection—plugs plus muffs.

For musicians, choose musician-specific plugs that lower volume evenly so music sounds natural. For sleeping, try low-profile silicone plugs designed for comfort. Kids need smaller sizes — don’t force adult plugs into a child’s ear.

Care and common mistakes: foam plugs are one-time use; toss them when dirty or misshapen. Wash reusable plugs with mild soap and dry them. Replace earmuff pads when they crack or lose their seal. The biggest mistake is poor fit — a loose plug or a gap around a muff cuts protection dramatically.

When to see a pro: if you work around noise daily, get a baseline hearing test and repeat it yearly. If you wake up with ringing, sudden hearing change, or ongoing muffled sound, contact an audiologist. Early action preserves options.

Practical takeaway: know the noise level, choose a protector with a realistic NRR, fit it correctly, and keep gear clean. Small habits — wearing plugs at concerts or using earmuffs for yard work — prevent a lifetime of hearing loss. If you’re unsure which option fits your routine, a local audiologist can show you proper fit and recommend gear that suits your needs.