Silicone earplugs are a popular type of hearing protection due to their low cost, high efficiency, and simplicity of use. For the consumer, the ease of use is definitely the most alluring of these earplugs’ characteristics. This ease is because of the usage of silicone itself because of its memory characteristic. This trait makes them simple to insert and reliable in their effectiveness. They even provide a cozy surface for sleeping on as well as provide a water tight seal for swimming or water sports.
There are actually two forms of silicone earplugs, the most common soft type and the significantly less common hard type. This article describes tips on how to use the soft, moldable type. Some reusable earplugs are made from hard silicone and are not moldable. These are effective earplugs, but do not provide you with the same level of comfort and water protection as soft silicone earplugs can.
The following will provide you with specific recommendations regarding the use of this type of earplugs:
1) Inserting
Before inserting silicone earplugs, it is important to clean both hands to prevent unhealthy bacteria from infecting your ear. Roll one of the earplugs in your hands up to the point it’s shaped as a fat cylinder or a slight cone. Insert this earplug in to your ear and hold the earplug there for 10-15 seconds. This is exactly where the memory trait is most useful. The silicone will in a natural way fill your outer ear canal, blocking your inner ear from harmful sound waves and building a water-tight seal. Do this process with the additional earplug in your other ear.
2) Removing
Be careful while taking out these earplugs. Though removal has a high rate of safety, often times there are risks. If the seal established between the plug and ear canal isn’t broken before removal, damage to the inner ear may happen. Also, the plug itself may tear, leaving a portion inside the ear canal. Before removing, pull the outside edge of the plug and pull it toward the ground or the back of the ear. That should break the seal. You can then pull the plug out of your ear canal.
3) Cleaning
Silicone earplugs are reusable, however do not forget to wash them regularly. The easiest way to clean these earplugs is by using soap and warm water. Be sure they are thoroughly dry before reuse.
Though silicone earplugs can be easily washed, they should be replaced frequently to avoid risk of an infection or irritation in your ear. Also, due to their size, these earplugs can be very easily lost. If you’re purchasing them yourself, it is smart to buy in relative bulk.
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