Fit Peoples Guide to Silicone Earplugs
October 2nd, 2011Silicone earplugs are a popular type of hearing protection due to their low cost, high efficiency, and ease of use. For the individual, the ease of use is definitely the most alluring of these earplugs’ attributes. This ease is due to using silicone itself because of its memory trait. This trait makes them simple to use and dependable in their overall performance. They also give you a cozy surface for sleeping on as well as provide a water tight seal for swimming or water sports.
There are actually a couple of forms of silicone earplugs, the most common soft style and the significantly less common hard type. This article details how to use the soft, moldable type. Some reusable earplugs are created from hard silicone and are not moldable. They’re effective earplugs, but tend not to give the same level of comfort and water protection as soft silicone earplugs do.
The following will provide you with specific instructions with regards to the use of this type of earplugs:
1) Inserting
Before inserting silicone earplugs, it is essential to clean both hands to prevent bacteria from infecting your ear. Roll one of the earplugs in your hand until it is shaped just like a fat cylinder or maybe a slight cone. Insert this earplug into your ear and hold the earplug there for 10-15 seconds. This is when the memory trait is most useful. The silicone will naturally fill your outer ear canal, blocking your inner ear from harmful sound waves and developing a water tight seal. Continue this procedure with the additional earplug in your other ear.
2) Removing
Be careful while taking out these earplugs. Though removing has a high level of safety, often times there are risks. In the event the seal created between the plug and ear canal isn’t broken before removal, damage to the inner ear may take place. Also, the plug itself may rip, leaving behind a piece in your ear canal. Before removing, pull the outer edge of the plug and pull it toward the floor or the back of your ear. This will 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 that they are thoroughly dry before reuse.
Though silicone earplugs can be easily washed, they should be replaced frequently to avoid risk of infection or discomfort in your ear. Also, due to their size, these earplugs can be very easily lost. If you’re buying them yourself, it is recommended that you buy in relative bulk.
Learn more about what makes the best earplugs by learning about types of earplugs such as earplugs for sleeping.
