Custom Earplug Fitting Guide

Congratulations on ordering your custom earplugs! If this is your first pair, then at risk of sounding overly cheesy I'm sincerely excited for you! This is a solid step in the direction of respecting your ears and hearing, and ultimately protecting the longevity of your music career and your enjoyment of sounds in general. If you're a custom hearing protection veteran, then fear not! There is still information in this page that you should find useful. OK, cheese over, now down to brass tacks.

And Nothing Says “Brass Tacks” Like "Warranty"

When you first receive the earplugs, be sure to take a minute to follow this quick guide to check the earplugs for both comfort and sound quality. The custom earplugs have a 30-day manufacturer's warranty against defects, so don't delay. If anything is amiss, please contact me immediately so we can get the problem resolved.

Fit Check #1: Comfort

Many people find it awkward to put the earplugs in for the first time. The below video from Sensaphonics may help with the process.

Start by finding the left and right earplugs. The right is marked with a red dot, and the left with a blue dot. This is often remembered by thinking “R for R”., or “Red = Right”. If you forget this relationship, think of the US political map… actually, on second though… better not.

Holding the earplug with your thumb and forefinger, you'll put the plug in your ear and twist it backward (away from your nose). Gently pulling back on your ear can make insertion easier.

Some ears will need a lubricant to get the earplugs in the first few times. Oto-Ease is the stuff made specifically for this purpose, but any general-use water-based lubricant will work.

Once in your ears, they should feel snug, but without any pinches, pokes, or pain - even after 30+ minutes of wear time.

Fit Check #2: Sound Quality

Depending on the filter level you selected, your experience will vary. In an overly-simplified sense, the custom filtered plugs should sound like you have turned the volume down on the world without much change in timbre. If things are sounding excessively bass-heavy, the plugs may not be sealing in your ears sufficiently.

If there are any issues with either the comfort or the sound quality, contact me! I can solve most issues over the phone or by email.

Device Care Instructions

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider the following recommendations to protect your investment and ensure lasting protection.

1. Wipe off the canal portion of the earmolds after use. A dry paper towel or other lint-free cloth works well. Avoid the use of alcohol or solvent cleaners as these may damage the material.

2. Remove the filters before washing the earplugs with warm water and dish soap. You may wash the plugs anytime they appear dirty, or periodically (every few months) to prevent build up of skin oils and ear wax. Be sure to dry the earmolds thoroughly before reinstalling the filter.

3. Store your earplugs in their original case (or some kind of sealable container). Putting them in a pocket or loose in an instrument case will allow them to pick up all sorts of grime, dust, and debris which you don’t want to introduce to your ear canal.

Closing Thoughts

Should you desire an additional set of filters for replacement or backup, or need a different filter strength for your varied settings and needs, they are available for $70 per pair. Contact Earmark to discuss the options, details, and ordering.

Remember, just like regular dental checks are recommended for anyone who relies on their teeth for munching, crunching, and smiling like a movie star (that’s all of us, for those keeping score), annual hearing tests are recommended for anyone who relies on their hearing for their livelihood and quality of life. You can contact Earmark to schedule your annual test today.

I sincerely wish you many long and successful years of music-making and/or listening with healthy ears to come!