We all need earplugs. If we travel regularly or go to concerts we all know how useful they are in protecting our senses from screaming children or sustained loud noises. Earplugs are great but it’s not always easy to find the right earplugs for small ears.
If you have smaller than average ears, finding earplugs for small ears can be a challenge. Standard earplugs are just too big and do not fit correctly and are prone to fall out. Because of this, they won’t be comfortable to wear and won’t help to protect your ears from unwanted noise.
So, what makes the perfect earplug for smaller ears. Certainly, they need to be comfortable. To do this they need to be designed to fit a smaller ear canal.
Earplugs that are made from a soft material such as closed-cell soft foam, silicone or wax are all designed to be worn for long periods. The wearer can be mould them into the shape of the ear canal to provide a tight, soundproofed seal.
Another important factor is the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). This number gives you and indication as to the amount of sound they keep from entering your ears. The higher the rating, the better they are at blocking unwanted noise.
Earplugs for Small Ears
Slim fit earplugs are an excellent choice for many. Mack’s Slim Fit Earplugs, for example are 20% slimmer than regular earplugs. we like them as they are tapered for comfort and incorporate slow-release foam for best fit. The NRR of these earplugs is 29 decibels, making them a good choice for blocking out much high-pitched sound.
Earplugs for Ladies
Women, generally, have smaller ear canals than men. With this is mind, Mack’s have developed a soft-foam earplug that is just for female ear canals. Our customer rave about Mack’s Dreamgirl Earplugs and they are a firm favourite with many.
Women’s Earplugs Sleep Pack
Our Women’s Earplugs Sleep Pack has been designed to bring a selection of earplugs for smaller ear canals into one handy pack. This allows you to try all of our popular brands of earplug and choose one that suits you best.
How To Choose Earplugs For Smaller Ear Canals
While standard sized earplugs may be too large for some, there are many options available for those with smaller ear canals. Finding the right fit is important not only for comfort, but also for effective noise blocking. Here are some other tips for finding the perfect small-sized earplugs:
- Look for earplugs specifically marketed as “petite,” “slim,” or “women’s” sized. These are designed with smaller ears in mind. Popular brands include Howard Leight LASER Lite, 3M E-A-Rsoft Yellow Neons, and Moldex SparkPlugs.
- Try earplugs made from molded silicone or custom molded materials. These can be fitted directly to your unique ear shape for a customized, comfortable fit. Companies like Radians Custom Molded and Earasers make molded plugs for small ears.
- For children and teens, look for kid-sized earplugs from reputable brands designed just for their smaller ear canals. Mack’s Pillow Soft and Etymotic ETY-Kids are great options.
- Consider corded earplugs which may fit better and be less likely to fall out of small ears compared to loose plugs. Brands like 3M Push-Ins and Howard Leight MAX Lite have corded styles.
- Look at the dimensions and sizing charts when shopping online. Measure your ear canal opening to get an idea of what size plug will work best. Slim earplugs are usually around 19mm (.75 inch) in diameter or less.
- Try a variety pack or sampler with multiple sizes and styles to find your ideal fit through trial and error. The previously mentioned Mack’s and Howard Leight multi-packs work well.
- Visit a hearing specialist, audiologist, or ear doctor to get custom fitted earplugs made specifically for your ears for the best fit and protection.
- For activities like swimming and sleeping, moldable wax or putty earplugs may work well, as they can be shaped perfectly to your ear canal. Try Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Putty.
- The most important thing is finding comfortable earplugs that properly seal out sound without being loose or falling out. Take the time to explore different styles and sizes to discover the best earplugs for your small ears. Proper fit means better hearing protection.
If you have small ears and wear earplugs regularly, let us know. Which earplugs work best for you?
Choosing the Right Earplugs Based on Size and Fit
When it comes to earplugs, one size doesn’t fit all. Our ears come in different shapes and sizes, so finding the perfect earplugs involves considering the fit. Here are some tips to help you choose earplugs that will stay comfortably in place:
- Measure your ear canal opening with a caliper or use one of those nifty “fit kits” some companies offer. This gives you an idea of the diameter you need.
- Look at sizing charts and product dimensions. Slim or petite earplugs are usually 19mm (0.75 inches) or less in diameter.
- Try different materials like soft foam, silicone, or flanged styles which can conform better to smaller ear canals.
- Consider custom-moulded earplugs made just for your ears. An audiologist can take impressions for a perfect fit.
- For kids, look for earplugs specifically designed for smaller, growing ears from brands like Mack’s and Etymotic.
The right fit is crucial for comfort and blocking out noise effectively. Don’t settle for loose, fallen out earplugs that leave your ears unprotected.
How to Properly Insert Earplugs for Maximum Noise Blocking
Putting in earplugs correctly makes a huge difference in how well they work. You’d be surprised how many people don’t insert them properly! Here are some pro tips:
- Roll the foam earplugs into a tight cylinder before insertion. They’ll slowly expand to create a snug, noise-blocking seal.
- Pull your outer ear up and back when inserting to straighten the ear canal.
- Don’t just shove them in partway. Push the earplug in firmly until you meet the natural bend in your ear canal.
- With flanged or triple-flange earplugs, twist them gently as you insert to get a proper seal.
- For putty or wax earplugs, roll and compress the material into a tight cylinder first before moulding it into your ear.
Take the time to follow these steps each time for maximum noise reduction. Improperly inserted earplugs are practically useless!
Photo “Ear” by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Health
Zoom Health is a leading UK supplier of Home Health Tests and Earplugs
