Universal earplugs: the differences
A lot of people would like to experience hearing protection first and choose universal earplugs to start with. Universal earplugs are cheaper than the custom made earplugs and suitable as a ‘starter’ earplug.
So, you’ve made the choice to get universal earplugs. But there are so many different types! Foam earplugs, wax earplugs, earmuffs or filter plugs… every type has its own pros and cons. We’ll list the different types of earplugs for you!
Foam earplugs
Let’s start with maybe the most well-known type of earplug: the foam plug. These earplugs are made for single use. You roll the earplug between your fingers to make it as small as possible before inserting it into your ear. The foam will then shape itself to your ear canal.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
- Cheap |
- Single use |
Wax earplugs
Wax earplugs are moldable earplugs, especially used when sleeping. The wax earplugs can be molded to the desired shape of your ear and they are made from e.g. Vaseline and paraffin.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
- High attenuation |
- Single use |
Earmuffs
You’ll see this kind of hearing protection mostly in construction work or at industrial companies. Earmuffs have high attenuation values and are also available in electronic version to improve communication.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
- High attenuation |
- Can cause sweating (especially in heat) |
Filtered earplugs
Earplugs with a filter, often adjusted to specific situations. The filters attenuate harmful noise while keeping communication possible. These earplugs often have the shape of a small tree. They are often made from hypoallergenic material, like silicone. Initially they are a more expensive buy, but because they are reusable, cheaper in the end.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
- High wearing comfort |
- When worn for long periods of time they can cause some itching |
Pluggerz earplugs Uni-Fit
Pluggerz universal hearing protection is made from antiallergic silicone material and is reusable over 100 times. Not all situations have need of the same earplugs, that is why Pluggerz are available in different types for different situations: from festivals and motorcycling to sleeping and in the workplace. Every category has its own filter, adjusted to the most common sound levels. After use you can store the earplugs in the handy storage case (or pouch in case of our Pro earplugs).
The next step
Do you use earplugs more often? Then Custom-Fit hearing protection could be a good solution. It’s a bigger investment, but custom made earplugs normally last for about 5 years. On top of that, you have the most optimal attenuation and, because it’s custom made, the perfect fit. Custom-Fit hearing protection is fully customisable: you choose the material (acrylate or silicone), the filter and different options (like a grip or cord).