How to Use Silicone Earplugs Properly



by Ned Howland


Silicone earplugs are a widely used type of hearing protection due to their low cost, high efficiency, and ease of use. For the consumer, the ease of use could be the most alluring of these earplugs' features. This ease is a result of the use of silicone itself because of its memory characteristic. This particular trait makes them easy to use and reliable in their overall performance. They even make a cozy surface for sleeping on as well as provide a water tight seal for swimming or water sports.

There are 2 varieties of silicone earplugs, the most common soft form and the significantly less common hard type. This article talks about how you can use the soft, moldable type. Some reusable earplugs are created from hard silicone and are not moldable. These are effective earplugs, but tend not to provide you with the same level of comfort and water protection as soft silicone earplugs can.

The following will provide you with specific instructions in regards to the use of this type of earplugs:

1) Inserting

Before inserting silicone earplugs, it is important to clean both hands to prevent harmful bacteria from infecting your ear. Roll one of the earplugs with your hands up to the point it is shaped like a fat cylinder or perhaps slight cone. Insert the earplug inside your ear and hold the earplug there for 10-15 seconds. This is exactly where the memory trait is most useful. The silicone will by natural means fill your outer ear canal, blocking your inner ear from harmful sound waves and developing a water tight seal. Repeat this procedure with the other earplug in your other ear.

2) Removing

Use caution while removing these earplugs. Though removal is known for a high level of safety, there are some risks. If the seal made between the plug and ear canal is not broken before removal, damage to the inner ear may occur. Also, the plug itself may rip, leaving a portion inside the ear canal. Before removing, pull the outer edge of the plug and pull it towards the ground or the back of your ear. That should break the seal. You can then pull the plug out of your ear canal.

3) Cleaning

Silicone earplugs are reusable, but ensure that you wash them frequently. The easiest way to clean these earplugs is to use soap and warm water. Ensure they are thoroughly dry before reuse.

Though silicone earplugs can be easily cleaned, they should be replaced frequently to avoid risk of an infection or discomfort in your ear. Also, due to their size, these earplugs can be easily lost. If you are purchasing them yourself, it is certainly smart to buy in relative bulk.




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