Excessively exposing your ears to water, such as when swimming, can lead to infections, commonly called swimmer's ear. Choosing appropriate earplugs is the first line of defense against these painful infections. There are a variety of commercially produced earplugs. But only those made of certain materials are truly effective at preventing water buildup in your ears. No two ears are the same, so experiment with the various types to determine the ones that provide the most comfortable and waterproof fit for your needs.
Flanged Earplugs
Flanged earplugs are typically made of a soft silicone material and best suited for short periods of use. This kind of earplug, which has flanges at the end of a small flexible stem, keeps water from entering the ear. It's easy to insert, and for this reason it's a popular choice for children. Most flanged earplugs are reusable and can be washed with a simple saline solution, which makes them an economical solution for those who need to wear earplugs on a regular basis. Flanged earplugs are available at pharmacies and online specialty stores.
Cotton Wool and Paraffin Jelly
According to a 2007 study in "The Journal of Laryngology & Otology," cotton wool -- available at pharmacies -- combined with paraffin jelly is the most effective way to protect your ears when you're swimming. While this method is cost effective and does work, it can be both messy and time consuming. Begin by sizing a small amount of wool to fit into the inner canal of your ear. Apply a thin coating of paraffin jelly to the wool, and place it in the ear canal. Cotton wool earplugs should be worn only once.
Silicone Earplugs
Silicone earplugs are 100 percent waterproof and offer a custom fit at a reasonable price, compared with professionally fitted earplugs. Silicone's flexible nature allows it to conform to the contours of your ear, which makes it a comfortable choice for extended wear. Do not reuse silicone earplugs, as they cannot be washed between uses and may trigger an ear infection if they're worn more than once.
Custom Earplugs
If neither flanged nor silicone earplugs can provide the protection you need, custom-fit earplugs may be your only option. Custom earplugs are made by inserting silicone into a cast that is formed from the inner section of your ear. They are generally more comfortable than other options and can be worn for longer periods of time. Custom-fit earplugs are available only from ear, nose and throat specialists, and though they are reusable, they are quite expensive, ranging in price from $160 to $250 per pair.
Earplug Tips
If you are going to wear earplugs for extended periods of time, irrigate your ear canal regularly with saline solution to prevent wax buildup and lessen your chances of getting an infection. Also avoid using earplugs when you have a cold or are suffering from allergies, as sinus drainage can cause water to build up in your ear canal, and earplugs may keep the moisture from drying thoroughly.
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