Earplugs are useful for sleeping, swimming and protection in noisy environments. There are many different models on the market and it can therefore be difficult to understand how to insert them in the ears; the techniques vary according to the type you have purchased. Typically, they slip into the ear canal to block or muffle sounds; the majority of the device must remain inside the ear, while a small portion of the tip sticks out in order to be able to remove it easily. There are disposable caps made of wax or foam rubber and other reusable ones made of silicone, plastic or rubber.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Foam Caps
Step 1. Purchase caps that you can easily handle with your fingers
If possible, try to hold them in your hands before buying them; it is advisable to take the foam rubber ones in family packs, as they are not reusable; one end should be thinner and rounded so that it can easily enter the ear canal.
Step 2. Wash your hands
Before handling the earplugs, remember to wash your hands to avoid exposing your ears to dirt and germs; use soap and running water before proceeding.
Step 3. Roll the device between your thumb and forefinger
You should shape it into a thin roll to reduce its size and make it easier to insert; the foam expands again once it is placed inside the ear canal, consequently blocking the sounds. If the cork is particularly thick, you can roll it between the palms of your hands; just be sure to thin it lengthwise instead of turning it into a ball.
Step 4. Pull the auricle up and back
Take the upper portion with the hand that is not handling the cap and slightly stretch the pavilion up and back; this operation slightly dilates the ear canal, facilitating the procedure.
- Do not pull too hard, but apply gentle enough tension to dilate the opening and allow the cork to pass through.
- It may be helpful to use a mirror to see more clearly what you are doing.
Step 5. Insert the cap carefully
Proceed slowly and carefully; the cap should slide into place and expand slightly. Don't force it and don't push it too deep; even though it has to stay in the canal for the most part, it should still pop out a bit so that you can easily grab and pull it out with your fingers.
Step 6. Hold it still for 20-30 seconds
Keep a slight pressure on the cap with your fingers to allow it time to dilate; this caution prevents the sounds from reaching the eardrum. Meanwhile, slowly count to 20 or 30.
- To understand if the cork is doing its job correctly, listen to the sound of your voice; see if it sounds muffled just like other noises around you. Do not expect absolute silence, but for sounds of lesser intensity.
- If the cap doesn't work, you should try a different or perhaps smaller model; eventually, most of the foam ones should get into the ear canal, but sometimes it takes several tries if it doesn't seal the opening properly.
Method 2 of 3: Reusable Preformed Caps
Step 1. Purchase the correct size caps
If you use this device a lot, a reusable model is worth buying. As long as you wash them after each use, you can insert the silicone, plastic or rubber ones several times; however, the first thing you need to do is identify the "size" of your ears. Reusable models are often labeled "one size fits all", although others come in various sizes, from small to large. To get started, you can try a universal type, but you'll have to go through trial and error before finding the right size one.
- You may need different earplugs for the two ears. It's not that strange and don't be surprised if you find yourself forced to buy two different models of caps.
- You should also purchase a few packs of various designs to figure out which size is best for you.
Step 2. Read the instructions first
Consult the package insert carefully before attempting to insert the caps; the exact technique varies according to the specific shape of the device. Generally, the procedure is similar for the various types; however, it is always a good idea to read the directions to learn about the unique aspects of the model you have purchased.
Step 3. Pull the pinna up and back to straighten the ear canal
Bring one hand over your head, grab the end of the ear and gently pull it; by doing so, open the opening slightly, making it easier to insert the cap.
Step 4. Insert the cap with a rocking motion
Once the opening is dilated, proceed with a gentle, swaying motion; slowly swing the plug as you push it into the canal and continue this way until the ear is completely closed.
- Don't push it too deep. Most of the plug should be inside the canal, but a small portion should still stick out and be within easy reach of the fingers for extraction.
- If you can still hear despite the cork, you may have inserted it incorrectly; check the instructions on the package and try again. If you don't get results after the second try, you may need to try a different size cap.
Method 3 of 3: Moldable Wax and Silicone Caps
Step 1. Remove the cotton wrap
The wax caps are packaged in small balls surrounded by cotton wool; use your fingers to peel off the coating before proceeding. Roll the cap between the thumb and forefinger of one hand, while with the other you peel off all the cotton; continue in this way until you get a "naked" ball of wax.
Step 2. Soften the material by holding it in your fist for 40 seconds
To make the wax malleable, you must first soften it and to do this you can hold it in your hand for 40 seconds; you should feel the material becoming softer and stickier.
Step 3. Shape the ball into a cone
Hold it between thumb and forefinger while with the other hand you pinch a part of it; rotate the sphere during this procedure to obtain a rounded cone.
Step 4. Pull the hair away from the face and ear
This detail is very important, as the wax plugs are sticky; if you have very long hair, tie it in a ponytail before inserting the caps.
Step 5. Insert the cap and seal the ear canal
Push it into your ear until it closes completely; most of the device should be inside, but a small portion should still pop out. Rub the end of the cap to spread the wax and seal the ear opening; in this way, external sounds should be muffled.
