Exploring DIY Approaches to Hearing Protection

Whether you work in a noisy environment such as a factory, stadium or construction site or simply want to take better care of your hearing, investing in hearing protection is essential. But if you don’t have genuine ear defenders or earplugs, you may be putting your hearing health at risk. Still, there are suitable do-it-yourself (DIY) alternatives that can mitigate potentially long-term affects, so consider these DY approaches to hearing protection.

Custom Kits

You can purchase custom earplug kits that enable you to make DIY earplugs that could be more comfortable than standard foam earplugs you can purchase at any store or pharmacy. The kits typically come with two materials that you need to combine and insert into your ear. If assembled correctly, the material will mold to your ear shape and block out sound without penetrating the ear canal.

Items Around the House

Your hearing health professional may also recommend using items you can find around the house, such as tissue, toilet paper or cotton wool. Like custom kits, you can use these materials to make personalized earplugs if you’re in a pinch or live on a busy street. These options are easy to make with water and protective tape but they are often single-use solutions.

Noise-Canceling Headphones and Sleep Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are an excellent way to ensure DIY hearing protection and you don’t even need to listen to music while wearing them. The built-in microwave generates soundwaves to counter exterior noise that dulls the sound and keeps your hearing safe.

Sleep headphones are another great solution and are more comfortable to wear overnight. These headphones are designed as a headband that covers your ears and connects to your phone through Bluetooth. You can play white noise, podcasts or music on a low volume to block out external sound.

White Noise Machines

Similarly, white noise machines can help you get to sleep or simply block out potentially hazardous or irritating noise at home or the office. As long as you keep the volume to a safe and reasonable limit no more than 70 decibels, you can enjoy the versatile benefits of a white noise machine. Modern devices come with many sounds and volume levels to help you find a setting that suits you or your child. If you are not sure which white noise machine may be right for you talk with your hearing health professional.

Earmuffs

Although earmuffs are typically used to protect your ears from the cold during winter, they can also be effective for protecting your hearing. This is especially true if you attend a noisy event during the colder months, such as fireworks displays. You can enjoy the occasion while still protecting your ears from excessive noise and the cold weather.

Do It Yourself

DIY hearing protection can be an effective stopgap while you await hearing protection products prescribed by your hearing health professional. However, they will not be as effective as genuine hearing protection accessories, so keep that in mind when using them.