What Type of Hearing Protection is Best for Yard Work?

Summertime is a great time to get outdoors and do some yard work. However, it’s important to protect your hearing while doing so. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of hearing protection that are available and which one is best for yard work.

Earmuffs

Earmuffs are another great option for hearing protection while doing yard work. They are typically made from a soft, cushion-like material and fit over the ears to form a seal. Earmuffs come in various sizes and styles, with various noise reduction ratings (NRR). When looking for earmuffs that offer maximum hearing protection, it is important to look for ones that have at least an NRR rating of 25-30 decibels (dBs) or higher.

When using earmuffs while doing yard work, it is important to make sure they fit snugly and securely on your head without any gaps between the cushions and your ears. Additionally, it is recommended to take breaks from wearing earmuffs as extended use may cause discomfort.

Earplugs

Earplugs are a great way to protect your hearing while doing yard work. They are small and comfortable making them an appealing option for many people. Earplugs can be made out of a variety of materials, such as foam, rubber or silicone. Most earplugs come with a rating indicating the noise reduction they offer; this is typically measured in decibels.

The higher the number, the more protection they provide. When looking for earplugs for yard work, it is important to look for ones that have a decibels rating of at least 25-30dBs or higher to ensure maximum hearing protection.

When using earplugs while doing yard work, it is important to make sure they fit snugly in the ear canal and form a good seal against external noise. It’s also important to wear them consistently throughout your entire yard work session in order for them to be effective. Additionally, it is recommended to take breaks from wearing earplugs as extended use may cause discomfort.

Canal Caps

Canal caps are a great alternative to both earplugs and earmuffs. They offer the same level of protection as regular earplugs but are easier to insert and remove. Canal caps fit directly in the ear canal and form a seal that blocks out most external noise.

When using canal caps while doing yard work, it is important to make sure they fit snugly and securely in your ear without causing any discomfort. Additionally, it is recommended to take breaks from wearing canal caps as extended use may cause irritation.

Overall, there are several types of hearing protection available for those who do yard work. The most popular options include earplugs, earmuffs and canal caps. Each of these can provide effective hearing protection when used properly, but it is important to make sure they fit snugly and securely in the ears for maximum effectiveness. Talk with your audiologist about the best types of hearing protection, they will be able to help you find the right one for you.