Whether you're constantly around loud noises or only briefly exposed, high volumes now can lead to hearing loss later in life. This happens when brittle hairs inside the ear canal are vibrated and shatter, and also when the ear drum is blown out from loud noise. Ear plugs prevent this damage by acting as a buffer between your inner ear and dangerous noises, absorbing the sound waves with plastic, rubber or foam, snugly inserted into your ear.
Step 1
Roll the foam end of the ear plug between two fingers. This is the end that will go into your ear. This will compress the foam shrink long enough for you to insert it into your ear.
Step 2
Use your free hand to pull the top of your ear, making the ear canal more accessible.
Step 3
Insert the rolled-up foam end of the ear plug into the ear canal. Only go so far as to make it snug--do not try to push it in as far as it will go.
Step 4
Keep a finger on the end of the ear plug, holding it in place until the foam expands and takes hold in your ear.
Step 5
Repeat this process with the other ear.
Step 6
Use the set of earplugs a few times, or until wax and/or dirt accumulate on the outside, then discard and use a new pair.
Tips and Warnings
- Wash your hands before handling ear plugs.
