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How to Use Ear Plugs When Swimming?

time2023/07/31

In order to prevent your ears from being hurt while swimming, you should consider wearing swimming earplugs. Below we introduce related matters about swimming earplugs to help you use them better.
swimming ear plugs
swimming ear plugs
Don't let your day at the beach or pool be ruined because the water keeps clogging your ears. Not only is the water full of bacteria, but if the water isn't completely dry it can lead to an ear infection called swimmer's ear that can really ruin your week. To prevent this, you should consider wearing swimming earplugs to make your water activities more enjoyable.

The earplugs are simple to use - you just plug them into your ears, making sure they stay securely in the ear canal without pinching the eardrum. These earplugs are waterproof and will not cause discomfort to your ears. The swimming earplugs are portable and compact, and can fully fit into the ear canal. You can even wear them under a swim cap or headband for a second layer of ear protection.

In this article, Eastragon's hearing protection experts sort out some benefits of swimming with earplugs, how to choose earplugs that suit you, and tips for correct insertion and care to help you choose swimming ear plugs better.

Benefits of Wearing Ear Plugs When Swimming

Protect Swimmer's Ear

When you swim, water can get into your ears and bacteria can thrive in this wet environment. The water that goes deep into the ear canal cannot be completely wiped dry. This can lead to a condition called otitis externa, or swimmer's otitis, as it is more commonly known, is an inflammation and infection of the external ear canal.

By using silicone ear plugs, you can prevent water from entering your ears, reducing the risk of the swimmer's ear.

Reduce Ear Infections

Earplugs also help reduce the chance of ear infections by keeping bacterial water out of your ears. In chlorinated water such as swimming pools, chlorine can kill some bacteria, but not always effective against all microorganisms. When you wear earplugs, you block this bacteria-laden water, keeping your ear canal dry and not prone to bacterial growth, making it harder for your ears to develop an infection.

Reduce Ear Complications

A middle ear infection, or otitis media, occurs when water becomes trapped in the middle ear, providing an environment for bacteria to multiply. Otitis media can cause ear pain, and in serious cases, it can be accompanied by tinnitus, dizziness, etc.

While not as common as a swimmer's ear, middle ear infections can be painful and potentially more serious. Wearing earplugs while swimming can help reduce the chance of water trapped in the middle ear, thereby reducing the risk of otitis media.

In addition, wearing earplugs can also reduce pool noise and prevent debris from entering your ears, making your swimming experience more comfortable.

Ear Plug Type and Material

To ensure you get the most out of your swimming experience, consider investing in a good pair of earplugs designed for swimming. Eastragon is a professional custom earplug manufacturer, we have many types available, and in this section, we will introduce them in detail.

Silicone Ear Plugs

Eastragon silicone swim ear plugs are a popular choice among swimmers for their durability, reusability, and comfort. These types of earplugs are usually made of a soft, hypoallergenic silicone material, which means they're friendly to sensitive skin groups, and environmentally friendly materials.

Many swimmers prefer silicone earplugs because they can be easily washed and reused without losing their water resistance. Many of them are designed with a three-layer design that can be very effective at waterproofing.

Silicone Mud Ear Plugs

Eastragon silicone mud ear plugs are made of moldable silicone material, which can be kneaded into different shapes to fit different sizes of ear canals. These types of earplugs are designed to provide a comfortable, custom seal in your ears. They're ideal if you're having trouble finding a good fit with other ear plug types.

It should be noted that do not put the silicone ear plugs into the ear canal, just cover it on the ear canal.

Waxed Cotton Ear Plugs

Eastragon waxed cotton earplugs are another moldable option, made from a mixture of wax and cotton fibers. These earplugs soften when exposed to body heat, making them easy to shape and insert into your ears.

Wax ear plugs provide a tight, comfortable fit and create a watertight seal to keep water out while swimming. One downside to wax earplugs is that they become less effective over time as the ear wax loses its flexibility.

However, if you're looking for an alternative to silicone or putty ear plugs, they're still a viable option.

TPE Ear Plugs

Eastragon TPE earplugs are made of thermoplastic elastomer, which is soft and comfortable. They feature excellent noise canceling against loud environments to aid restful sleep and improve concentration. Reusable, versatile and gentle on the ears, TPE earplugs ensure hearing safety and enhance overall wellbeing.

The price of TPE earplugs is cheaper than that of silicone earplugs, which is why many people choose TPE earplugs.

Custom Ear Plugs

Eastragon custom earplugs are a more personal solution, tailored to your unique ear shape. These earplugs provide the safest and most comfortable fit, reducing the chance of falling out while swimming.

Custom earplugs are usually made of soft plastic material and can be made by an audiologist or a professional company. While they may be more expensive than other earplug options, the investment is worth it due to their perfect fit and superior comfort.

Understanding the different types and materials of earplugs on the market can help you find the best solution for your swimming needs. Choose from silicone, silicone clay, waxed cotton, or custom earplugs according to your preference and budget for a more comfortable, hassle-free swimming experience.

And the materials used for customized earplugs differ from other earplugs, making them more durable than regular silicone earplugs. Each custom earplug is unique and designed specifically for the user's ear canal, allowing for a tighter fit. The sound insulation and noise reduction effect is also better than ordinary silicone earplugs.
Wholesale Silicone Mud Earplugs ES3112 Apply to Swimming|Customize Mold-able Silicone Earplugs
Silicone mud earplugs ES3112 can provide all people with the peace of sleep
Wholesale Wax Cotton Earplugs ES3113 Apply to Swimming|Customize Mold-able Wax Earplugs Supplier
Mold-able Wax cotton earplugs ES3113 are more suitable for people who like swimming.
Wholesale Silicone Earplugs ES3125 Apply to Swim|Customized Swimming Filter Earplug Manufacturer
The light color series filter earplugs ES3125 are suitable for swimming
OEM TPE Earplugs ES3133 Apply to Swimming|New Customized Waterproof Filter Earplug Manufacturer
TPE filter earplugs are the latest developed hearing protection earplugs that conform to ergonomics. Ensure comfortable sleep.
Wholesale Silicone Earplugs ES3126 Apply to Swim|Customized Waterproof Filter Earplug Manufacturer
Three-layer filter earplugs ES3126 for effective noise reduction. Has good waterproof properties

A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Swimming Ear Plugs

Determine the Proper Fit

To ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness, you need to find the right earplugs. Proper fit prevents water from entering the ear canal and protects your eardrum. Start by checking out different types of earplugs, such as moldable or silicone ear plugs.

When choosing earplugs for children, consider their age and ear canal size.

You can test the fit by gently inserting the earplug into your ear. It should feel comfortable but not cause any discomfort. The earplugs should not touch the eardrums; this is a sign that you've pushed them too hard.

Insert Earplugs

Before inserting ear plugs, make sure your hands are clean to avoid introducing bacteria into your ears. For moldable earplugs, use your fingers to gently roll them into a cylindrical shape to fit snugly in your ear canal.

Next, pull the outer ear up and back to straighten the ear canal. Carefully insert the earplug and press it into place, making sure to create a watertight seal. Just remember not to push the earplugs too far, as this could damage your middle ear.

For flanged earplugs, hold the stem of the earplug and insert it into the ear canal. Gently twist and push the plug until a secure seal is formed. Be careful not to insert the plug too far, as this may damage your eardrums.

Removal and Care

Care needs to be taken when removing the earplugs so as not to damage the ear canal or eardrum. Grasp the stem or outer edge of the earplug, then gently twist and pull to remove it. If you're having trouble grabbing the plug, try tilting your head to one side and shaking the plug slightly to loosen it.

After use, clean the earplugs with soapy water or a special cleaning solution, as bacteria can grow on dirty earplugs. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry. Store earplugs in a clean, dry case to ensure they stay hygienic and ready for your next swim.

Maintenance and Replacement

Cleaning and Storage

To keep your ear plugs in top condition, you must clean them after each use and store them properly. Eastragon has a plastic box that can store earplugs, ensuring that they are stored in a dry and sealed environment after cleaning.

To clean reusable earplugs, rinse them with non-chlorinated water after each use. If needed, wash gently with warm soapy water using a soft brush or towel.

Just be sure to let them dry on a clean towel before storing them to prevent mold growth. For disposable earplugs, simply throw them away after use and replace them with new ones as needed.

When storing, be sure to store your ear plugs in their protective case to ensure their quality and durability. When they're not in use, a case protects them from dust, debris, and other potential damage.

By following these simple steps, you'll extend the life of your earplugs and maintain their effectiveness at keeping water out of your ears.

When to Replace Ear Plugs

Knowing when to change your earplugs is critical to maintaining optimal protection during swimming activities.

Reusable earplugs are generally durable, but over time they become less effective due to wear and tear. The earplugs must be replaced when you notice any change in the performance of the earplugs, such as:

- Difficult to maintain a secure fit

- Signs of deterioration such as cracks or discoloration

- Decreased water resistance

Keep an eye on the condition of your earplugs and replace them as needed to ensure optimum protection and comfort while swimming.

Remember that the health of your ears is of the utmost importance, so invest in quality earplugs and take good care of them to keep your ears safe while enjoying your time in the water.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Use Ear Straps for Extra Protection

If you want added ear protection while swimming or participating in water sports, consider ear straps in addition to earplugs. The ear straps are designed to cover your ears and hold the earplugs in place, providing extra protection against water entering the ear canal.

They are especially helpful if you are prone to a swimmer's ear or have sensitive ears. To use the ear straps, simply fit them snugly over your head and ears, making sure it covers the earplugs and creates a secure seal.

Equalize Ear Pressure While Swimming

It is very important to balance ear pressure before entering the water, as it will prevent ear pain when you exit the water.

If you like to dive deep underwater and wear swimming earplugs, it's important to be aware of pressure changes in your ears.

Often, you can balance the pressure simply by performing Valsalva maneuvers. This is when you pinch your nose and then gently blow air into the nostrils while keeping your mouth closed.

Under normal circumstances, this equalizes the pressure on the ear. However, if your ears are sealed with waxed cotton earplugs, then the air is still trapped and the pressure will keep building.

That's why if you plan to dive underwater, you should especially look for swimming earplugs that are designed with tiny holes, called vented earplugs. Most swimming earplugs are vented; even with the holes, it still keeps water out, but it also lets air through when you're doing Valsalva, which means you can equalize ear pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Wear Ear Plugs When Swimming?

Wearing earplugs while swimming is mainly about choosing earplugs that fit the size of your ear canal. If you find that vigorous swimming eventually causes your earplugs to fall out, consider wearing a swim cap or swim headband over your earplugs to ensure they stay in your ears while swimming.

Can You Swim with Ear Plugs if You Have Swimmers Ears?

Swimming earplugs are especially helpful when you have swimmers ear, as they prevent dirty water from entering the infected ear canal and disrupting the healing process. Having said that, you should not go swimming at all until your ear is healed. Wear swimming earplugs when showering or bathing to prevent water ingress, and do not resume swimming until the ear infection has fully healed.

Can Normal Ear Plugs Be Used While Swimming?

Regular foam earplugs are a poor choice for swimming because they're designed to block out noise and don't explicitly keep water out of your ears. As a result, water seeps in and reaches your ears. Swimming earplugs are specifically made of water-resistant material such as silicone or wax and are shaped to create a tight seal in the ear canal to keep water out. Ordinary foam earplugs cannot play a waterproof role, so they cannot be used as swimming earplugs.