If noisy neighbors, snoring partners or particularly loud Arvada streets keep you up at night, earplugs can be a game-changer. Let’s explore how earplugs impact your ears, the best options for sleep and tips to maximize comfort while wearing them overnight.
Earplugs and Your Ear Health
Earplugs are generally safe and can even improve sleep quality by reducing disturbances. The primary concern is earwax buildup. Normally, earwax moves out of the ear naturally, but frequent use of earplugs can push it deeper, potentially leading to blockages.
Earwax blockages can cause muffled hearing, tinnitus, discomfort and feeling of fullness in the ear.
While earwax buildup is a possibility, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your quiet sleep. By choosing the right earplugs and maintaining ear hygiene, you can enjoy silence and healthy ears.
Choosing the Best Earplugs for Sleep
Not all earplugs are created equal. If you find foam earplugs uncomfortable or ineffective, consider these alternatives:
- Custom earplugs. Specially made to fit your ears, custom earplugs provide a comfortable seal without pushing deep into the ear canal. They effectively block noise while reducing earwax buildup.
- Silicone earplugs. Smaller and softer than foam options, silicone earplugs sit at the ear’s entrance rather than deep inside. They provide moderate noise reduction and are ideal for those who find traditional earplugs uncomfortable.
- Sleep headbands. Designed for side sleepers, sleep headbands offer noise reduction that doesn’t put pressure on the ears. You can choose plain ear covers or options with built-in Bluetooth® to play white noise.
Tips for Sleeping Comfortably with Earplugs
Many people want the benefits of earplugs but have difficulty sleeping with something in their ears. If that’s the case, try these tips to sleep more comfortably with earplugs.
- Choose the right fit. Ill-fitting earplugs can cause irritation or fall out during the night. Opt for a pair designed specifically for sleep, with a soft, flexible material that adapts to your ear shape.
- Insert and remove earplugs gently. Never force earplugs deep into your ears. Roll foam plugs between your fingers before inserting them and let them expand naturally.
- Keep your earplugs clean. Wipe reusable earplugs daily with a damp cloth or mild soap solution and let them dry completely. If you use a sleep headband with Bluetooth, it likely doesn’t require much cleaning. If you do need to clean a sleep headband, check the care instructions in the product manual.
While earplugs are an excellent tool for uninterrupted sleep, monitoring your ear health is essential. If you experience frequent blockages, discomfort or changes in hearing, contact Advantage ENT & Audiology today for an ear exam with one of our specialists.