The Best Reusable Ear Plugs – 2023 Reviews

best reusable ear plugs review

Looking for a less expensive option to an electronic earplug, one that doesn’t require custom fitting and is available off the shelf? If you answered yes to these questions, then you’re in the right place to find the best reusable earplugs. 

Unlike models with an electric circuit, you’ll never need to worry about changing batteries. Multi-use pre-molded reusable ear plugs are typically made from a soft silicone material which can be cleaned after each use, allowing you to reuse them for an average of 6 months.

We have put together a list of the best reusable earplugs for the job site, sleeping and loud environments right here.

What are the best reusable earplugs?

With so many competitors for reusable ear plugs out there, it’s no wonder why, when we’re looking to make a purchase, you probably have found yourself grabbing the cheapest and softest-looking model off the shelf. By the end of this article, you’ll see why making an informed selection on which reusable ear plugs are vitally essential to choosing the best, as not all are made the same.

Are you sure about the earplug types or even the best reusable ear plugs for sleeping? Whatever it is you’re wondering, we’ll do our best to answer all those questions right here and provide you with the best suggestions based on reusable earplugs reviews.

Want to view all the best earplugs for work? Learn more here.

Top 5 Best Reusable Earplugs for Construction

We’ve gone through hundreds of reviews and sorted through many reusable earplugs to find the best ones, whether you need hearing protection from construction noise, a sporting event or your job or to help you fall asleep in peace. See below the top product models according to the reusable earplugs reviews.

ISOTunes Pro Earbuds

ISOtunes PRO Aware Bluetooth Earbuds: Audio Passthrough Hearing Protection

Experience superior sound and block noise with ISOtunes PRO 2.0 Industrial Earbuds – Bluetooth 5.0 earplug headphones designed to provide ANSI-certified 27dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of hearing protection while providing long-lasting listening quality.

The comfortable earbuds fit in your ears to reduce sound passively, while you can listen to music with Bluetooth features.

The PRO 2.0 Bluetooth safety ear plugs boast a 16-hour battery life and 270-hour standby time, so you’ll never have to worry about missing out on valuable productivity time due to dead batteries. USB rechargeable, these ergonomically designed earplugs are IP67 dust, sweat & waterproof and feature a 79 dB volume limiter to prevent hearing damage even at maximum volume, making them perfect for use in the harshest workplaces.

Keep your ears protected and start listening safely with ISOtunes PRO 2.0 Industrial Earbuds!

Alpine Worksafe Earplugs

Alpine WorkSafe Construction Earplugs for Adult - Reusable Ear Protection for Work & DIY - Comfortable Hypoallergenic Filter for Noise Reduction - 23dB - with Safety Cord

Alpine hearing protection has done extensive research to create earplugs that provide an exceptionally comfortable and proper fit in your ears with great sound reduction. These are specially made for construction work and personal protective equipment.

The Alpine WorkSafe earplugs are ideal for any professional environment. These earplugs provide maximum protection up to 27 dB and can be worn throughout the day without irritation or discomfort due to their soft AlpineThermoShape material.

The unique AlpineAcousticFilters allow you to still hear warning signals, conversations and other vital sounds while reducing the loud equipment noise in your workplace to a comfortable level. Plus, this earplug also comes with an Alpine carrying cord, making it easy to keep and find when needed.

Product Features:

  • High Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 27 dB.
  • Protects hearing from loud noise by filtering sound pressure at 16 different frequencies
  • Unique AlpineAcousticFilters allow you still hear important warning signals and conversations
  • Comfortable fit in the ear canals due to soft AlpineThermoShape material
  • Comes with a slimline carrying cord for easy storage
  • Washable

Decibullz custom molded earplugs

Decibullz - Custom Molded Earplugs, 31dB Highest NRR, Comfortable Hearing Protection for Shooting, Travel, Swimming, Work and Concerts (Black)

Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs provide the highest noise reduction rating of any custom earplug worldwide, up to 31dB. These have the highest NRR on our list. They combine maximum hearing protection with comfort and convenience.

The patented thermoplastic molds easily shape to your ear canals, providing a perfect fit that won’t fall out or cause pain. The molding process is incredibly easy using hot water and can be re-done when needed. This custom-molded hearing protection has in-ear plugs made of foam, with the molded part covering the outer ear canal completely.

Custom molded earplugs are excellent for noisy workplaces, shooting ranges, concerts and air travel; they also come with a convenient carrying case that you can keep with you wherever you go. Read our Decibullz review for more information.

Product Features:

  • 31dB NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) for maximum hearing protection.
  • Easy Shape System allows you to quickly and easily fit them to the exact shape of your ears.
  • Made from medical grade, heat-sensitive thermoplastic that is soft enough to shape but durable enough for continued use.
  • A snug and comfortable fit is perfect for indoor sports such as shooting, traveling, work and loud concerts.
  • Reusable; no more buying multiple sets of disposable earplugs.
  • A convenient travel case makes it easy to carry around wherever you go.
  • It comes in two sizes – Standard and Large – ensuring the perfect fit every time!

#2) Sound Barren - Best Construction Earplugs

For the most cost-effective option on the market today, this mid to high-frequency blocking hearing protection will perform the job well! More suited to blocking out excessively loud noise rather than that from the TV or similar.

  • Priced well, these plugs are an incredible cost for quality.
  • The best feature of this ear plug is its ability to block out loud noises while still allowing you to hear people talking around you. This is all possible thanks to the 28dB rating and sound-cancelling properties.
  • These plugs are ideal for when you’re on the range, at the construction site or if you find yourselves sitting next to the engine on the plane. Satisfaction guaranteed the Sound Barren Noise Cancelling earplugs would definitely please!
  • The push-in style, contoured soft hypoallergenic silicon plug is constructed to fit security and comfortably in your ear canal. Many reviews comment on the high level of comfort by noting how they even forgot they were wearing them. The clear ear plug design means they will be discreet and won’t draw attention as a typical Nylon plug would.

Added Bonuses: Try without risk; these earplugs have a 100% money-back guarantee. Included in the purchase comes a carrying case and an optional cord so you can wear them around your neck. 

Howard Leight Quiet Band Supra-Aural Banded Earplugs

Howard Leight by Honeywell Quiet Band Shooting Earplugs 3 Pairs, (Contains 3 Single Bags, Plus 3 Extra Pairs for Replacement)

The Howard Leight Quiet Band Supra-Aural Banded Earplugs are the perfect solution for blocking out noise in environments with intermittent noise levels. The lightweight and portable band design sits comfortably behind your head, around the neck, allowing quick and easy insertion and removal of the earplugs when needed.

Furthermore, this eliminates potential loss or misplacement of the earplug and protects them from dirt, liquids and other workplace contaminants. Enjoy comfort and hearing safety with a supra-aural fit with an impressive Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 25dB.

Product Features:

  • INTERMITTENT NOISE DESIGN: Lightweight & portable patented band design allows earplugs to rest comfortably around the neck for quick and easy insertion & removal in intermittent noise environments.

  • HYGIENE & SAFETY: Keeping the earplugs around the neck behind your head also helps prevent loss or misplacement and keeps the earplugs away from workplace dirt, liquids and other contaminants

  • SUPRA-AURAL FIT: Soft pods rest partially in the ear canal for a supra-aural fit that offers a good balance of hearing safety and comfort; Noise Reduction Rating of 25dB

  • MULTIUSE FIT: One size fits most; convenient reusability makes this ideal for multiple operations or personnel throughout the plant or facility.

#5) ​SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders

Coming in last on our list doesn’t mean this hearing protection for shooting lacks superior features. On the contrary, if it weren’t for the mixed reviews, this product definitely would have scored higher on our list; maybe not backed by all customers, the Sonic Defenders are trusted by the military, which has a significant meaning.

The convenient cord wraps behind your head to ensure you don’t misplace them.

What didn’t customers like? Many complained that these earplugs were ineffective at blocking out loud noise while at an indoor shooting range, while others complained that the sizing was off. So, what about the rest of the features?

In our opinion, these earplugs are one of the best on the market today and provide maximum comfort. What makes them so great?

  • Incredibly low priced
  • Low profile
  • Soft and adjustable triple-flanged plug

Ensuring a perfect fit, the Sonic Defenders have patented EarLock retention rings, which help lock the earplugs in place.

The SunFire EPA Sonic Defenders design is unique to the others in that it can limit harmful noises, those above 85dB, with the help of noise-reducing filter caps, all without blocking ambient noise, allowing you a greater level of situational awareness. So not only will your ears be protected, but you’ll also be able to hear the ambient sounds around as well. Coming in either clear, black or orange, these 24dB USA-made hypoallergenic medical-grade polymer silicone earplugs are sure to please.

Please read the rest of our SureFire Sonic Defenders earplug review here.

Reusable earplugs for Sleeping

For construction workers who have long days on the job and need a good night’s sleep, here are the best reusable earplugs for sleeping.

Loop earplugs

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs for Noise Reduction – Super Soft, Reusable Hearing Protection in Flexible Silicone for Sleep, Noise Sensitivity & Flights - 8 Ear Tips in XS/S/M/L – 27dB Noise Cancelling - Mint

Loop Quiet’s reusable, noise-reduction earplugs provide superior sound quality by reducing a wide range of noise levels. They feature an easy-to-use design with soft flexible silicone that fits in your ears comfortably and securely.

They come with 4 sizes of ear tips (XS-L) to help you find the right fit for you so nothing distracts you from your day-to-day activities. Ideal for sleep, work, travel or any other loud environment, these Noise Reduction Earplugs feature the latest technology to keep out unwanted noises while protecting your hearing. Plus, Loop earplugs come with a handy carry case to make transporting them a breeze. Read our full Loop Earplugs Review.

Product Features:

  • Reusable and durable noise reduction with NRR of 27 decibels
  • Soft silicone tips in four different sizes (XS-L) for optimal comfort
  • Multi-purpose for sleeping, travel, work or just about any loud environment
  • Easy to insert and remove thanks to their iconic round design
  • It comes with a handy carry case, which makes it easy for transportation
  • The washable and sustainable solution against disposable plugs

Vibes earplugs

Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs - Invisible Ear Plugs for Concerts, Musicians, Motorcycles, Airplanes, Raves, Work Noise Reduction, Hearing Protection - Fits Small Medium Large - As Seen On Shark Tank

The Vibes Earplugs provide premium hearing protection for any situation. Made with advanced attenuating filters that lower decibel levels without sacrificing sound quality, these noise reduction earplugs reduce damaging decibels by up to 22db (15 NRR} – a slightly lower NRR than other earplugs on our list.

Plus, they’re designed to be virtually invisible with a glass-clear outer shell and clear form-fitting low-profile silicone earbuds, making them perfect for unfamiliar environments like music concerts and festivals; they are one of the Best Earplugs For Concerts. Plus, the hypoallergenic earbuds come in multiple sizes to ensure a comfortable fit regardless of your ears.

For added convenience, you get a pocket-size carry case to have your earplugs with you wherever life takes you! Whether dealing with tinnitus or autism sensory processing disorders, Vibes Acoustic Filters make it easy to enjoy life while protecting your ears from damaging sound levels.

Alpine Sleepsoft

Alpine SleepSoft Sleeping Earplugs - Ultra Soft Filter for Side Sleeper - Reduce Noises & Improve Sleep - Reusable, Hygienic, Hypoallergenic Hearing Protection for Adults with Long Lasting Comfort

The Alpine SleepSoft Sleeping Earplugs are a great choice for side sleepers who want a better night’s sleep without blocking out all the noise. These earplugs feature patented AlpineThermoShape material that adapts to the shape of your ear canal, making them incredibly comfortable and easily removable with their Minigrip feature.

The AlpineAcousticFilter also ensures that you can still hear Doorbells, Alarm Clocks, and Fire Alarms while reducing external noises like snoring. Each pair has been thoroughly tested and proven to reach 25 dB SNR following US & EU Regulations and is hypoallergenic so that no allergic reactions occur.

Additionally, these earplugs come with an award-winning Dutch design, combining timeless elegance

EarJoy Earplugs Reviews - Best Reusable Earplugs For Sleeping

If you find yourself in loud environments such as at sporting events, on the work site, or while you practice a musical instrument for hours, you’ll want to look for a reusable ear plug set that works well to protect against high-decibel sounds. 

  • These high-fidelity earplugs have a 27dB rating to attenuate the level of sounds without compromising quality. 

  • EarJoy does a fantastic job taking care of comfort with this hearing protection; designed out of super soft silicone and hypoallergenic material, these plugs contour to your ear for a perfect fit inside your ear canal, offering maximum comfort. 

  • Durable and easy to maintain make owning a pair of these EarJoys a great investment in your hearing. 

  • These high protection noise cancelling earplugs can protect your hearing effectively without sacrificing your ability to hear the clear and natural sounds around you.

Added Bonuses: Have no hesitations about hands-on testing this product; the company offers a 100% risk-free satisfaction guarantee. Other great perks include the small carrying case, a string to attach the plugs, and a free set of extra tips!

Reusable Earplugs for Concerts

Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs

Topping your list at #1 for best reusable ear plugs, these Eargasm earplugs are incredibly valuable for such top quality. 

  • These earplugs are around $30; the cost fluctuates slightly depending on whether your purchase the blue or transparent model. 

  • Their best feature is their ability to preserve the full spectrum of sounds so that you can hear ambient sounds at a clear, crisp, and safe level while reducing noise. 

  • Ideal for concertgoers, ear plugs for motorcycle riders,  musicians and many more, these plugs are top quality and have been approved for a 16dB rating

  • What makes Eargasm unique is their patent-pending included attenuated filters, which help to reduce loud noises while at the same time maintaining clarity.

Added Bonuses: The Eargasm ear plug set comes with 2 different shell sizes of attenuated filters. Also included is a solidly constructed, well-sealed aluminum waterproof case with an anti-stick interior allowing easy removal from the case.

LiveMus!c HearSafe High Fidelity Reusable Earplugs For Concerts

As the name states, these are considered the best reusable ear plugs for use at concerts, in a club, for musicians, and for other applications such as while on your motorbike or the job. 

  • The natural soft hypoallergenic, and non-toxic silicone plug fits comfortably in your ear canal for high comfort and protection. 

  • Great for turning down the volume of hazardous noise without the sounds coming through muffled. 

  • These are some of the highest NRR ear plugs, with a 23dB NRR, offering maximum noise reduction rating protection while maintaining a clarity that reviewers across the boards praise.

Added Bonuses: 2 plugs come in the pack, so you’ll always have a spare. Portable and easy to take with you, a case and cord are included in your purchase.

What to Consider Purchasing Reusable earplugs:

Noise Reduction Rating

Noise reduction rating refers to how much sound reduction the product provides. A higher NRR product will reduce sound more effectively before it enters your ears.

Fit in the Ear Canal

These earplugs must be worn for long periods and are comfortable in your ear canals. Some products come with additional tips to better fit your inner ear. The cylindrical shape earplugs also tend to be more comfortable, and the plugs stay in your ears better.

Silicone vs Foam Earplugs

Most of the products we feature have silicone plugs, but some are foam plugs. Foam plugs can be reusable when you keep them clean during occasional use. The advantage of foam plugs is they provide a universal fit in one size.

They are both brightly colored when needed, one of the additional features needed for the job site.

Reusable Ear Plugs FAQ

How can I protect my ears from construction noise?

NIOSH recommends workers wear properly fitting hearing protection when exposed to noise greater than or equal to 85 dB in an 8-hour time-averaged. The protective gear can be anything from expandable foam earplugs, a Reusable molded plug, or Earmuffs as long as they provide adequate noise protection for loud settings.

Earplugs go in the inner ear, whereas earmuffs cover the outer ear completely, which may be needed in some cases. Both products will give you the noise protection needed.

What is the best hearing protection for construction?

There are many hearing protection options for construction workers, but the best earplugs which can be reused are either ISOtunes Pro, Alpine Work Safe or Decibullz Custom molded.

They are the best at reducing noise to protect your hearing while providing a comfortable fit with hard hats and other personal protective equipment.

The only downside to silicone earplugs is they do not provide a universal fit without different sizes. Foam earplugs work well but aren’t very reusable.

What earplugs do construction workers use?

3M Peltor EEP100 earbuds have been designed for smart noise reduction. These passive and active noise cancellation headphones contain an added speaker inside and an internal speaker with noise limits up to 72 dBA below what would otherwise be considered hazardous.

Most people prefer foam earplugs or earmuffs to reduce noise. Alternatively a pre-made plug or canal cap can help reduce the amount of noise generated by the building work. It is not always appropriate to use every device for every instance.

Is there a pair you would recommend only for sleeping?

Absolutely! First of all, the earplugs we’ve covered all work well as a reusable plug for sleeping however, there is another great option we’d recommend. The SoundBlocker Earplugs by Harris Health & Home provide great comfort and value.

The construction of these soft foam earplugs makes for easy insertion and designed for the highest noise reduction rating protection.

Why didn’t they make our top five? Some reviews claim that they are not for extended reuse. Although they are a great earplug for sleeping and protecting your ears in a dangerously loud environment, they are not durable enough to be considered fully reusable. They’re worth the try, especially since the company offers a 60-day 100% money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied.

What is the best way to clean my reusable earplugs?

If you’re looking for a basic low-cost home method to clean your earplugs, we suggest using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, soap, and water with a toothbrush to clean them lightly. Once you are finished, set them out to dry or wipe them clean with a fresh dry cloth. 

With that said, if you’re wondering if you can reuse foam earplugs, the answer is yes, although you really shouldn’t. Why? Bacteria can easily attach to the foam material. Once you put the used earplug back into your ear, the possibility of infection is rather likely, and can result in pain and inflammation.

What are the main styles of reusable earplugs?

  • Foam – traditional foam earplugs are a standard inexpensive ear plug that can be used a few times if kept clean.

  • Banded  – earplugs mounted to a headband.

  • Reusable – usually made of silicone with consumer and industrial models available. 

  • Moldable – alternative to traditional earplugs.

  • Electronic – best choice for reusable plugs

  • No-Roll Foam – inexpensive option to traditional foam earplug

Are there any earplugs that block all noise?

Many reusable earplugs claim to block out as much noise as possible; however, this is not an easy task to accomplish. Take a look at which earplugs block out the most noise:

Is it bad to sleep with earplugs in every night?

In general, sleeping with earplugs in causes no harm in the short term. Although, if you extensively use ear plugs over a long period of time, you may experience an excess of ear wax buildup in your ear canal. 

Conclusion

When purchasing reusable earplugs, you are not only doing yourself a great favor in protecting your hearing, but you’re also servicing the earth. The best reusable earplugs reduce waste because they can be cleaned and re-used multiple times, anywhere from 4 months to a year.

Focusing back on protection, these little guys have flexible ridges that plug closely to your ear canal which adds to their high ability to block out loud noises. 

No matter which model of reusable earplugs you choose, remember that comfort is key and that what may be the best for one may not be for another. Luckily, our top 5 selections have solid reviews on comfort and quality to back them up!

Top Picks

Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs – Best for preserving the full sound spectrum 

SureFire EP4 Sonic Defenders – Best for noise blocking

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