Classification of earplugs

Classified by Material

Silicone earplugs are one of the most popular types on the market. Their cost is significantly higher than that of homemade alternatives, but they offer superior comfort and durability. Before use, these earplugs should be softened with warm water to fit snugly into the ear canal. They are designed for repeated use and have a high hardness that can cause discomfort if worn for extended periods. However, their airtight and non-porous structure helps reduce noise by about 20 to 30 decibels. Despite this, some users may experience redness or pain due to the shape not fitting perfectly with their ear canal. This can lead to leaks, reducing the effectiveness of noise reduction. High-quality silicone earplugs, however, are designed to conform to the natural shape of the ear, offering both comfort and sound insulation. With proper care, they can last for years without causing any discomfort.

Sponge-type earplugs are made from low-pressure foam or high-resilient polyester materials. These earplugs are soft, comfortable, and provide good noise reduction, typically between 25dB and 40dB. They are ideal for sleep because they do not cause pain when inserted. However, they tend to rebound slowly after washing, which limits their reusability. Most sponge earplugs are disposable, but some modern versions are now available that can be washed and reused for several months.

Wax earplugs were among the earliest forms of noise protection. They can be softened by hand and molded to fit the ear canal. While they are easy to shape, they are not very hygienic. Residual wax can remain in the ear, making it difficult to clean. Long-term use may also cause discomfort or pain in the ear canal.

Classified by Shape

The most common type of earplug is the bullet-shaped head. It is widely used and often made from sponge material, offering comfort and good noise insulation. Another design is the rocket (T-shaped) style, which is easier to remove but may leave gaps in the ear canal, leading to poor noise reduction. The trumpet-shaped design is useful for inserting silicone earplugs more easily. The Christmas tree shape, usually made of silicone, provides a slight pressure sensation and is commonly used for labor protection and swimming. The pagoda-shaped design, developed by 3M, is another unique variation. Cylindrical earplugs are highly soft and can be shaped to fit the ear canal, but they may not fit as well as other shapes due to their uniform width.

Classified by Function

Labor insurance earplugs are typically made of silicone and are used in industrial environments to protect against loud noises. They offer strong noise reduction but can be quite hard, causing discomfort during long use. They often come with a cord for easy removal. Sleeping earplugs are made from softer materials, such as slow-rebound foam, and are designed for comfort during rest. Although they offer good noise reduction, they are not as waterproof as silicone, making them less suitable for use in workshops. Some models come with a string, but this can be uncomfortable during sleep. Swimming earplugs are specifically designed to keep water out of the ear canal and are usually made of silicone. However, they may cause discomfort and are not recommended for daily or sleeping use.

China Labor Insurance Network