5 Tips on How to Insert Earplugs Properly
Earplugs are an easy solution to reduce noise and protect your ears from damage. However, improperly inserting or removing them can cause discomfort or, worse, harm your hearing. Here are some tips on how to use earplugs correctly:
Clean Your Hands and Ears
Before inserting earplugs, make sure your hands and ears are clean, dry, and free of earwax. This will help prevent infections, and earwax buildup can interfere with a proper fit. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and gently clean the outside of your ears with a warm, damp towel.
Roll and Shape the Earplug
Earplugs come in different shapes and sizes, so it’s essential to find the right one for your ears. To insert them correctly, roll and shape them into a small cylinder between your fingers. Pull your ear up and out to straighten the ear canal, and insert the rolled-up earplug until it fits snugly, but not too deep, into your ear canal.
Check for Proper Fit and Comfort
The goal is to get a comfortable and secure fit that blocks noise but doesn’t cause discomfort or pain. When you remove your finger from the earplug, it should expand and fill most of the ear canal. Gently tug and twist the earplug to ensure it’s securely in place but not too far into your ear. If it hurts, you might have inserted it too far or not rolled it correctly, so start again.
Remove Earplugs Carefully
When removing the earplugs, avoid pulling them out suddenly, which could damage your eardrum or cause discomfort. Instead, slowly and gently pull them out with a twisting motion. It’s best to use one hand to pull your ear up and out while using the other to remove the earplug so that it doesn’t get stuck.
Keep Earplugs Clean and Dispose of Them Properly
Earplugs can accumulate dirt, sweat, and earwax over time, so it’s crucial to clean and sanitize them for reuse. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, or use a mild soap and warm water to clean them thoroughly. If they look discolored or damaged, it’s time to replace them. Dispose of them properly by putting them in the trash and not flushing them.
