What Types of Hearing Protection are Available?

When one thinks of “hearing protection,” it is hard to know what someone thinks of. After all, there are many types of hearing protection available on the market (some are even fashionable). The type of hearing protection one may purchase to help prevent temporary or permanent sensorineural hearing loss caused by noise exposure depends on the type of activity he or she is engaged in.

Earplugs as hearing protection

One type of hearing protection that is fairly universal for all activities, are earplugs. Earplugs can either be made of soft foam or hard plastic. Earplugs insert directly into the ear canal. They are easy to carry around in a purse, backpack or pocket. Some types even come with a neck strap so they are easier to find, should one fall out.

Foam earplugs require a bit of manipulation to ensure a tight fit. Foam earplugs are rolled into thin cylindrical shape and placed halfway into the ear canal. For smaller ears, the individual may have to roll the earplugs more than others to ensure they fit comfortably. Foam earplugs will take shape again, filling the ear canal snugly to block out excess noise.

Premolded or hard plastic earplugs are easier to insert into the ear canal. They are typically made from plastic, but can also be made with rubber or silicone. Their shape is similar to an ice cream cone and come in different sizes.

Earmuffs as hearing protection

Earmuffs are another type of hearing protection available today. Earmuffs are capable of reducing noise by as much as 15-30 decibels.  Earmuffs look like wireless headphone that fits over the ear. Earmuffs tend to be more costly than earplugs, but tend to be easier to fit, especially for children. To ensure a proper earmuffs fit, make sure the earmuffs do not fit too loosely around the head.

Canal cap and hearing protection

A third type of protection is a canal cap. A canal cap caps off the ear canal at its opening, Typically, canal caps provide less protection that earmuffs or earplugs. As such, they are not typically recommended.

For additional help on choosing the right type and fit of hearing protection for your favorite noisy activity, whether its attending a concert, riding a dirt bike or mowing the lawn, contact your hearing healthcare professional for advice.