How to Use Earplugs When Swimming

Swimmer’s ear is a common condition in which water or moisture that gets trapped in your ear canal can aid in the growth of bacteria, leading to infection. It’s very common, but there’s a really simple way to prevent getting it: using earplugs. These simple, inexpensive, and widely available devices can help seal out water and protect the delicate structures inside your ear that enable you to hear the world around you.

What’s more, if you’re swimming in cold water, they can help prevent the development of surfer’s ear or exostosis, a progressive condition in which chronic cold-water exposure leads to bone growth that can increase risk for or exacerbate ear infections and even impact hearing.

In very cold water, earplugs can also help you maintain your balance and prevent dizziness; when cold water infiltrates the ear canal and comes in contact with the eardrum, that change in temperature can disrupt your equilibrium, leading to seasickness or vertigo.

If you’re new to earplugs, here are some tips for finding and using ear plugs for maximum comfort and effect in the pool or open water.

Choose the right earplugs

There are various types of earplugs designed specifically for swimming, and it may take some trial and error until you find a pair that feels comfortable and completely seals out water. Moldable silicone earplugs are a popular choice, as they can be shaped to fit any ear size and configuration. Tree-shaped silicone plugs that are molded into a permanent but flexible shape are also popular among some swimmers.

Foam earplugs—the kind you might wear to sleep or to protect your hearing at a concert—don’t generally work as well, as they can absorb water and create the opportunity for water and bacteria to get trapped inside the ear canal, leading to infection.

Ensure your ears are clean

Before inserting earplugs, make sure your ears are clean and dry. Excess earwax or moisture can compromise the effectiveness of the earplugs and can prevent them from making a complete seal.

Insert carefully

Most folks know not to stick things deep into the ear canal because of the risk of puncturing the eardrum and causing permanent injury and hearing loss. This goes for earplugs too, because even through they’re meant to be inserted into the ear canal, they should be inserted carefully and not so deeply as to cause injury.

Instead, roll or compress the earplugs according to the instructions provided and gently pull your earlobe upward and outward to straighten the ear canal. Then insert the earplug with a twisting motion until it forms a snug seal. Repeat the process for the other ear. If at any point you feel discomfort or pain, stop what you’re doing and remove the earplug. If pain persists, visit with your doctor as soon as possible to check for damage to the ear drum.

Check for a proper seal

After inserting your earplugs, check that they’ve formed a secure seal by lightly tugging on the earplugs or pressing them with your finger. They should stay in place, but if they shift or lose their seal, reinsert them to get a better fit.

Remove earplugs carefully

When it's time to remove the earplugs, avoid pulling them abruptly, as the vacuum that’s created when the plug forms a complete seal could potentially cause pain or injury to the ear canal if pulled out incorrectly or too suddenly. Instead, gently twist and pull on the plug to release the seal. This prevents any discomfort or potential damage to the ear canal.

Clean and store your earplugs properly

After each use, clean the earplugs according to the manufacturer's instructions. Let them air dry before putting them into the provided case. Taking care of your earlugs like you would your goggles or cap can help prolong their useful life and prevent contamination with bacteria or other pathogens, sand, or irritants that could pose a danger or cause discomfort the next time you insert your ear plugs.