Are Ear Plugs Safe for Kids?

Everything Parents Need to Know About Little Ears and Loud Noise

You love your kids.
You want to protect them.
And sometimes, you want just five minutes of silence.

Whether it’s a loud wedding, a fireworks show, a long flight, or keeping water out during bath time, you may be asking:
“Can my child safely use ear plugs?”

The answer is: Yes — but with the right type, size, and supervision.

This guide breaks down:

• When kids should use earplugs
  

• Which types are safe
  

• What to avoid
  

• And how to find the right fit without causing damage or discomfort
  

Related: Ultimate Guide to Earplugs | How to Choose the Right Size & Fit

Related: Ultimate Guide to Earplugs | How to Choose the Right Size & Fit

Why Kids Might Need Ear Plugs

Ear plugs aren’t just for grumpy adults trying to nap. They can be useful (and even essential) for kids in these situations:

Loud Events

Concerts, fireworks, parades, sports arenas — they’re fun, but they can hit dangerous decibel levels for young, sensitive ears.
Children’s ears are more vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss because of their developing auditory systems.

Travel

Planes = engine noise, cabin pressure changes, and tantrum triggers.
Ear plugs can help reduce noise and calm overstimulated children during flights.

Swimming

If your child is prone to swimmer’s ear or has ear tubes, water-blocking plugs can help prevent infection.

Sleep

Some kids are light sleepers. If they share a room or live in a noisy area, earplugs may help them stay asleep through the night.

But Wait — Are Ear Plugs Actually Safe for Children?

Short answer: Yes — if used correctly.
Long answer: Children’s ear canals are smaller, shallower, and more sensitive than adults’. So, not all plugs are safe.

Here’s what to consider:

Safe Use Guidelines for Kids:

• Use only child-specific earplugs
  

• Never insert deeply into the ear canal
  

• Supervise use (especially for under age 6)
  

• Don’t use adult-sized plugs — risk of damage or choking
  

• Check fit and comfort before use
  

• Clean or replace regularly
  
  

Ear Plug Types to Avoid for Children

Best Types of Ear Plugs for Kids

1. Moldable Silicone Ear Plugs (e.g. Putty Buddies)

• Designed to cover the ear canal (not go in)
  

• Great for swimming and general noise
  

• Bright colors = easy to spot (and less likely to be swallowed)
  

• Safe for toddlers (with supervision)
  
  

2. Pre-Molded Child-Sized Ear Plugs (e.g. Alpine Pluggies Kids)

• Soft silicone flanged design
  

• Sized for small ear canals
  

• Ideal for travel, concerts, and noise protection
  

• Often come with a handy carry case
  
  

3. Reusable Swim-Specific Plugs

• Ideal for kids with ear tubes or ear infections
  

• Often come with ear bands or caps for added hold
  

• Must be sized specifically for children
  
  

Want an all-in-one plug that works for adults and older kids (with supervision)?
Check out the NG 1.0 Earplugs — waterproof, reusable, and soft enough for sensitive users.

How to Fit Ear Plugs on a Child Safely

• Wash your hands first
  

• Choose the right type and size
  

• Show them how it works — make it fun!
  

• For moldable plugs: roll into a ball, press gently over ear canal
  

• For pre-molded: insert gently; don’t push deeply
  

• Check the fit: It should be snug but not painful
  

• Test it: Clap or speak near them — if they react less, it’s working.
  
  

Cleaning and Replacing Children’s Ear Plugs

Kids = sticky fingers, dropped stuff, and “I don’t know where I left them.”
So keep earplug hygiene front of mind:

Always inspect before reuse. If they’re dirty, damaged, or squished beyond shape — toss them.

More on this in: How to Clean Ear Plugs

Age Guidelines for Earplug Use

Always check with your pediatrician, especially if your child:

• Has ear tubes
  

• Has had frequent ear infections
  

• Has sensory sensitivities
  

• Is non-verbal or prone to putting small things in their mouth
  
  

Pro Tips for Parents

• Let your child help choose color/design — gives them ownership
  

• Practice using plugs before a significant event (like a flight or fireworks)
  

• Use noise-reducing headphones for exceptionally young children instead of plugs
  

• Talk to your doctor or audiologist if you’re unsure
  
  

Bonus: For kids who hate earplugs, open-ear headphones (like NG EarSafe) may be a better long-term solution once they’re older.

Are Ear Plugs Safe for Kids?

Yes — with the right type, the right size, and supervision.

Final Thoughts: Small Ears, Extensive Care

Your child’s hearing is precious and preventing damage early sets them up for a lifetime of strong, healthy listening.
Whether you’re blocking out noise or keeping out water, the right earplug can be a safe and simple tool for happier, healthier ears.

If your child is older, sensitive to ear pressure, or dislikes plugs, open-ear technology may be the answer.

Related Guides:

• Ultimate Guide to Earplugs

•  How to Choose the Right Earplug Size & Fit

•  Are Ear Plugs Safe?