What are Earplugs?
Earplugs are small but mighty devices that help block noise, protect ears from water (depending on the type of earplug), and ease discomfort caused by air pressure changes. They’re used in many situations, whether you’re trying to sleep, swim, concentrate, or work in a noisy space. For air travelers, earplugs can be a game-changer, reducing cabin noise and preventing the dreaded ear pain caused by altitude shifts.
When it comes to earplugs, silicone earplugs are a top choice for their comfort and flexibility. Unlike foam or wax options, silicone earplugs are moldable, shaping perfectly to your ears for a snug fit. This makes them ideal for people with sensitive ears or those who find traditional earplugs uncomfortable.
Silicone earplugs are especially useful on planes. They help prevent airplane ear, a common issue caused by rapid pressure changes during takeoff and landing, which can lead to pain or temporary hearing loss. Some silicone earplugs are designed specifically to regulate pressure gradually, making flights even more comfortable. Their noise-blocking abilities also help drown out engine sounds, chatty passengers, and crying babies, helping you rest and relax.
Another big plus? They’re reusable. Unlike foam earplugs, which wear out quickly, silicone earplugs can be cleaned and reused multiple times, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective option.
Do earplugs on a plane help?
Absolutely! Earplugs can make a big difference when flying, helping with both noise reduction and ear pressure regulation. If you’ve ever felt discomfort or pain in your ears during takeoff or landing, it’s due to rapid air pressure changes.
Some earplugs are specially designed to slow down this pressure shift, giving your ears more time to adjust and reducing the risk of airplane ear, a common issue that can cause pain, muffled hearing, or even temporary hearing loss.
Beyond pressure relief, earplugs are a lifesaver for blocking out unwanted noise. Airplanes can be loud, with constant engine hum, in-flight announcements, and noisy passengers. Whether you’re trying to sleep, focus, or simply enjoy a peaceful flight, earplugs help create a quieter, more relaxing environment.
Our Eventus Earplugs are becoming a popular favorite among travelers, especially on airplanes.
How do earplugs help with airplane pressure?
Airplane pressure changes can cause discomfort because the air pressure in the cabin shifts faster than your ears can naturally adjust. This creates an imbalance between the pressure inside your ear and the external environment, leading to that clogged or painful sensation, often called airplane ear.
Specialised pressure-regulating earplugs are designed to slow down this rapid change. They feature small filters or vents that control the rate at which air enters and exits the ear canal. This allows your eustachian tubes, the small passages connecting your middle ear to your throat to gradually equalise pressure, reducing discomfort.
These earplugs work best when inserted before takeoff and landing, the two points in a flight when pressure shifts the most. They don’t completely block sound, so you can still hear important announcements, but they significantly reduce the discomfort associated with altitude changes.
Is it bad to wear earplugs on a plane for a long time?
Wearing earplugs during a long flight can be helpful for reducing noise and managing pressure changes, but it's important to use them properly to avoid any potential issues.
-
Ear Health: If earplugs are too tight or uncomfortable, they may cause irritation or pain in your ear canal over time. Choose earplugs that fit well and are made of soft materials like silicone.
-
Air Circulation: Continuous use of earplugs can block air circulation, leading to moisture or earwax buildup. Take short breaks and remove the earplugs every few hours.
-
Earwax Buildup: Frequent use of earplugs can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, leading to discomfort or blockages. Clean your ears regularly and use earplugs designed to minimise this risk.
-
Hearing Safety: If using earplugs to block out all sound, be mindful of missing important announcements or emergency instructions. Consider noise-filtering earplugs that allow essential sounds.
Earplugs vs. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Both earplugs and noise-canceling headphones are popular choices for reducing noise on a plane, but each has its pros and cons.
Earplugs: Small, lightweight, and portable, they effectively reduce ambient noise and help with pressure regulation. Silicone earplugs are reusable and budget-friendly but don’t provide the same level of sound blocking as noise-canceling headphones.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: These electronically cancel out low-frequency sounds like engine hum and provide high-quality audio for music or podcasts. However, they are bulkier, more expensive, and require battery power.
Sleep Better on Flights
Getting quality sleep on a plane can be challenging, but earplugs can help. By blocking out engine hum, chatty passengers, and in-flight announcements, earplugs create a quieter environment ideal for rest.
Silicone earplugs are a top choice for air travel because they mold to your ear shape, offering a snug and comfortable fit. Unlike foam earplugs, they’re reusable and easy to clean, making them practical for frequent flyers.
While earplugs won’t block out all noise completely, they significantly reduce it, making for a calmer, more sleep-friendly flight. For even better results, pair earplugs with an eye mask to block out light.
