References to earplugs dates back to the Bluedio R+ by Greek poet
Homer, around the 8th century BC, when the crew used wax earplugs to
prevent the alluring sound of the Siren's songs from enchanting them. It
is thought that earplugs were then made from either wax clay or cotton.
Earplug Materials
Foam earplugs became widely used and this was improved by the National Research base in the US which was experimenting with resin and discovered one that had energy absorption properties which is very effective at noise reduction. This material has been further improved into memory foam earplugs which expand into the ear canal for a better fit.
Silicone earplugs are balls of silicone which are moulded to fit individual ear shapes.
Musician's earplugs are flanged earplugs which are specially made for the music industry.
Moulded Earplugs
A wide range of moulded earplugs exist on the market. Many are available from an audiologist which is costly but recommended as Wikipedia states, "custom shaped plugs are recommended for long-term use, since they are more comfortable and gentle to the skin and won't go too far into the ear canal."
A cheaper alternative is available in the form of kits containing moldable thermoplastic ear plugs. They are put into warm water to soften before being inserted into the ear where it will mould to the individual shape of your outer ear canal. This gives the advantage of a perfect fit and eliminates the irritation which can be caused when ill-fitting earplugs are worn.
Usages of Earplugs
The crew of Odyssey might have used earplugs to ward off the Siren's song, but what were ancient earplugs used for? The most likely usage does not vary from what earplugs are used for today, which is noise reduction and to keep dust and water out of the ears.
Today earplugs are most likely to be used as noise reduction tools for modern noise problems such as:
- Aircraft noise
- Loud music
- Noisy neighbours
- Snoring partners
Barotrauma of the Ear
Barotrauma is another very modern and popular use of earplugs. This is when unequal pressure develops on both sides of the eardrum and causes blocked and painful popped ears. Earplugs are known to help prevent barotrauma and are now on many travellers' essential items list.
Whatever you use your earplugs for, modern moulded earplugs are the comfiest and safest ways to protect your ears.
Earplug Materials
Foam earplugs became widely used and this was improved by the National Research base in the US which was experimenting with resin and discovered one that had energy absorption properties which is very effective at noise reduction. This material has been further improved into memory foam earplugs which expand into the ear canal for a better fit.
Silicone earplugs are balls of silicone which are moulded to fit individual ear shapes.
Musician's earplugs are flanged earplugs which are specially made for the music industry.
Moulded Earplugs
A wide range of moulded earplugs exist on the market. Many are available from an audiologist which is costly but recommended as Wikipedia states, "custom shaped plugs are recommended for long-term use, since they are more comfortable and gentle to the skin and won't go too far into the ear canal."
A cheaper alternative is available in the form of kits containing moldable thermoplastic ear plugs. They are put into warm water to soften before being inserted into the ear where it will mould to the individual shape of your outer ear canal. This gives the advantage of a perfect fit and eliminates the irritation which can be caused when ill-fitting earplugs are worn.
Usages of Earplugs
The crew of Odyssey might have used earplugs to ward off the Siren's song, but what were ancient earplugs used for? The most likely usage does not vary from what earplugs are used for today, which is noise reduction and to keep dust and water out of the ears.
Today earplugs are most likely to be used as noise reduction tools for modern noise problems such as:
- Aircraft noise
- Loud music
- Noisy neighbours
- Snoring partners
Barotrauma of the Ear
Barotrauma is another very modern and popular use of earplugs. This is when unequal pressure develops on both sides of the eardrum and causes blocked and painful popped ears. Earplugs are known to help prevent barotrauma and are now on many travellers' essential items list.
Whatever you use your earplugs for, modern moulded earplugs are the comfiest and safest ways to protect your ears.
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