Earmuffs
How to Insert Earplugs Correctly
Roll and compress
Roll the foam earplug between your fingers into a tight, thin cylinder for maximum noise reduction.
Reach over your head
Use your opposite hand to pull your ear up and back to straighten the ear canal for optimal noise reduction earplug insertion.
Insert gently
Insert the rolled earplug into your ear canal while it is still compressed.
Hold in place
Hold the earplug in place for 10-15 seconds while it expands to fill your ear canal.
Check the seal
The earplug should feel snug and comfortable, with most of it inside the ear canal. Our top pick: Macks Snore Blockers NRR 32 — Australia's highest-rated foam earplug for sleeping. Also available: Macks Slim Fit for smaller ear canals and Macks Dreamgirl for women.
Clean and dry your ears
Ensure your ears are completely dry before inserting silicone earplugs for swimming or sleeping.
Warm and shape
Roll the putty between your hands to warm and soften it into a ball.
Cover the ear opening
Flatten the ball slightly and press the mouldable earplugs over the ear opening, not into the canal.
Seal the edges
Gently press around the edges to create a watertight seal.
Avoid pushing too deep
Do not push the putty into the ear canal; it should sit over the opening only. Our top pick: Macks Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs — waterproof, comfortable, and ideal for sleeping or swimming.
Hold the stem
Grip the stem of the reusable earplug, not the flanges, for easy insertion and removal.
Pull your ear up and back
Use your opposite hand to pull your ear up and back to straighten the ear canal for washable earplugs.
Insert gently
Gently insert the earplug into the ear canal with a slight twisting motion.
Ensure a snug fit
The flanges should create a seal inside the ear canal without causing discomfort.
Adjust if needed
If the fit feels loose, remove and reinsert with a slight twist for a better seal. Our top pick: Alpine Sleep Deep — designed specifically for side sleepers and nightly use.
Good Fit vs Not a Good Fit
Good Fit
- Comfortable and snug without pain
- Significant noise reduction
- Stays in place during sleep or movement
- No pressure or discomfort after extended wear
Not a Good Fit
- Earplug falls out easily
- Minimal or no noise reduction
- Pain, pressure, or irritation
- Earplug sits outside the ear canal
