Protecting Your Hearing: Safe Earphone Use and Cleaning Tips
Earphones have become a part of our daily lives — whether it’s listening to music, taking calls, or enjoying podcasts. But many people don’t realize that improper or excessive earphone use can lead to hearing loss over time. Protecting your ears doesn’t mean giving up earphones; it means learning how to use them wisely and keeping them clean for healthy listening.
1. How to Use Earphones Safely
Follow the 60/60 Rule
Keep the volume under 60% of the maximum and limit usage to 60 minutes at a time. Your ears need breaks just like your eyes do.
Choose noise-cancelling or well-fitted earphones
If outside noise is too loud, people tend to increase the volume. Noise-cancelling or properly fitted earphones allow you to listen comfortably at lower levels.
Avoid sleeping with earphones
Continuous pressure and sound exposure during sleep can irritate the ear canal and strain your hearing.
Use over-the-ear headphones when possible
They’re generally safer than in-ear designs because they sit outside the ear canal and reduce direct sound pressure.
2. Cleaning Your Earphones
Earphones are in direct contact with your ears, which means they can easily accumulate earwax, dust, and bacteria. Keeping them clean helps protect both your ears and the device.
Daily wipe-down: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface.
Remove ear tips: If your earphones have silicone or foam tips, remove and wash them regularly with mild soap and water.
Clean the mesh: Use a small brush or cotton swab to gently clean the mesh without pushing dirt inside.
Disinfect occasionally: Lightly wipe with an alcohol pad to reduce bacteria buildup.
3. Think Long-Term: Protect Your Hearing Health
Temporary ringing in the ears after using earphones is a warning sign that your ears are under stress. Once hearing is damaged, it cannot be fully restored. That’s why protecting your hearing early is essential.
At Tomore, we believe listening should always be safe, enjoyable, and sustainable. By controlling volume, taking breaks, and caring for your earphones, you’re not only extending the life of your devices but also protecting something far more valuable — your hearing health.