Specialized ear plugs are emerging as practical and affordable hearing protection because people are realizing that the dangers of everyday or occupational noise on their hearing can lead to irreversible hearing loss.

According to the World Health Organization, harmful noise poses health risks, annoyance, sleep disturbance, increases stress, affects the immune system, and has implications on the cardiovascular system.  These alarming findings ushered in noise cancellation technology and the creation of noise canceling or reducing devices for different purposes and individual needs.

Ear plugs were once exclusively used for water sports to prevent ear infections caused by water trapped in the inner ear, but are now designed for noise prevention for everyday use.  When used, these reduce noise levels by 26 to 35 decibels.

Noise Cancellation Solutions

Noise cancellation technology provides a low-cost and practical remedy for the reduction of excess noise.  There are various noise elimination solutions with different Noise Reduction Rates (NRR) developed to reduce the high pitched and loud harmful sounds in the environment.  But this technology is still being perfected. In the meantime, ear plugs provide an alternative to diminish dangerous sound levels.

People can prevent hearing problems and gradual hearing loss by avoiding daily exposure to noise and wearing ear protection against noise.  There are different noise reducing solutions for different purposes - air travel, auto races, firearms, music, sleep, and study.  These noise reduction plugs, are made with soft moldable silicone or disposable foam and there are sizes to outfit children and pets.

When Do You Need Noise Cancellation Solutions?

Noise is everywhere. Whether at home or at play, there’s always the noisy lawn mower, the consistent whir of the fans, and the noise of the washing machine and TV may seem harmless.  But prolonged exposure without any protection against hearing damage can be fatal to one's hearing.  At work, unwanted noise is always present too.  The din of traffic and of nearby ongoing construction can also damage your hearing slowly.

When should you use ear plugs and what type should you use?

• MusicSafe Pro – This is best for DJs and musicians because this does not muffle the music so it still sounds natural.  Two types of attenuation filters can be used with this.  For concerts, the silver filter is recommended.  For the pub environment, the white filter is best. Using these during rock concerts and similar activities can diminish or prevent tinnitus or ringing in the ears.


• Pillow Soft Earplugs – This has dual purposes, it perfectly seals out water when swimming and eliminates noise that disturbs sleep and is best for air travel because it reduces noise by 22 decibels with proper use.


• SleepSoft – This reduces noise significantly but does not fully block out background noise.  This is perfect for a user who wants to get some rest yet needs to hear alerts for emergencies.


• Alpine MotoSafe – This reduces the harmful noise from motorcycles and shooting ranges.  These can be also custom-fitted for different ear impressions.


• Moldex Spark Plugs – With an NRR of 35 decibels, this is highly recommended for industrial use.


• Kilnoise foam plugs - should be worn for noisy sports events, sleeping while traveling, and for activities that require concentrated focus.

These earplugs are specifically designed for a certain reason. It would not be wise to just stick to one kind of ear plug for various situations.