Though small pieces of equipment, wearable listening devices can have a damaging effect on your ears and hearing if both your ears and the equipment aren’t properly cared for.
How Earbuds Can Affect Ear Health
Earbud hygiene is important for your overall health, and so is the frequency of their use. Relying on these devices too frequently can contribute to hearing fatigue, excessive sound exposure, irritation, moisture buildup, and wax-related issues.
When used correctly, earbuds are safe. But it’s essential to pay attention to volume levels, fit, and use duration. For the good of your ears and the longevity of your tech, consider the following guide on how to properly use and care for your in-ear headphones.
Safe Listening Habits
When looking for how to use earbuds safely, following appropriate listening habits is vital. The first thing to keep in mind is sound decibels. That is how volume is measured. Safe sounds are below 70 decibels, while sounds over 85 decibels can lead to hearing damage over time. Earbuds can often reach up to 120 decibels, which is very harmful.
A good rule of thumb when it comes to a safe listening volume that can prevent hearing loss from earbuds is to keep the sound at 60% or lower. You can measure this on whatever device you’re using.
One way of accomplishing this is to wear noise-canceling earbuds, since they make it possible to listen at lower volume levels because they get rid of background noises.
How long should you wear earbuds? You shouldn’t wear them for more than 60 minutes at a time without taking at least a ten-minute break between sessions.
Ears that are exposed to loud noises for a long period of time need to recover from the trauma. Similar to experiencing ringing in the ears after going to a loud concert or being on a worksite without hearing protection, your ears need between 16 and 48 hours of rest to overcome symptoms of noise-induced hearing loss.
Choose to use alternative listening devices, such as a Bluetooth speaker, every other day or so in order to give your ears a break.
How to Clean and Store Earbuds Properly
Earbuds and ear health are intricately connected. Your ears are a source of oil, wax, debris, and soap or shampoo residue, and anything put into your ears is a magnet for attraction. Wireless headphones that sit inside the ear need to be cleaned if you are to keep from developing a buildup of bacteria and germs, but a cleaning routine also helps the wireless headphones last longer.
To clean earbuds properly, you need to begin with the tips. Take the silicone tips off the earbuds and let them sit in warm, soapy water for about 30 minutes. Use a cotton swab to remove any hard wax. Always allow the tips to air dry completely before using them.
Avoid using alcohol or alcohol pads as it will cause the material and coloring to fade and break down over time.
Next, you must clean the mesh and body of the earbuds. Begin by turning the earbud downward so that the mesh points to the floor and using a soft, dry brush to clear away dirt. Don’t use hard or sharp objects because they might make holes in the mesh.
To wipe down the hard plastic parts, use a microfiber cloth with a bit of rubbing alcohol. Don’t allow any water or alcohol to get into the mesh section.
Don’t forget to clean the charging case, if you have one. Use a soft, dry brush to remove dirt, and use a microfiber cloth on the external part of the case. Never use liquids in the charging ports.
For those with an active lifestyle, sweat can contaminate your headphones with germs. Even when a pair is labeled sweat or water-resistance, you should never allow them to remain damp for an extended period of time. With enough exposure, moisture is able to seep into the device and create a short circuit. Individuals who use their devices in the gym or while exercising are more prone to have excess moisture around the bud itself.
Following the manufacturer’s recommendation for storage and use preserves the lifespan of your device and ensures you made a good investment. Most manufacturers recommend developing the following habits:
- Store your ear buds in a protective case or bag when not in use to prevent damage from impact, scratches, or dirt
- Avoid storing or using your headphones in extreme temperature environments as it can impact battery life
- Protect the battery charging port at all times to prevent moisture or dust from getting inside the device
If your earbuds have wires, don’t wrap them tightly around your earbuds or phone. A loose circle is much better.
You can extend the life of your earbuds and protect your health by also cleaning your ears. Clean the outside regularly to remove dirt and other debris, but avoid using cotton swabs inside your ears.
Signs Your Earbuds May Be Causing a Problem
If you’re concerned about earbud hearing damage, it can help to be aware of the signs that you may need a break from using these devices. Some common things to watch for include:
- Ringing in the ears
- Persistent ear itching
- Muffled hearing
- Ear pain
- Ear drainage
- Dizziness
- Sound sensitivity
If these symptoms persist or get worse, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation with a hearing professional.
When to See a Hearing Professional
When faced with hearing loss or concerns with ringing in the ears that won’t go away, consult the audiologists at Happy Ears Hearing Center. An audiologist can help identify if there are changes in your hearing or if you’re experiencing issues like wax buildup or irritation. If the problem is not resolved with a simple cleaning, there are treatment options available.
Your listening habits may be the root of the problem, but a professional opinion can provide the answers. If you experience pain, hearing issues, ringing in the ears, or any other symptoms, we can help. Contact us at Happy Ears Hearing Center for an evaluation.
