Protecting your hearing is essential in today’s noisy world. The right headphones can make a significant difference. But not all headphones are created equal. Some can contribute to hearing loss if used improperly. In this blog post, we will explore the best headphones designed to prevent hearing damage. We’ll highlight features to look for and provide recommendations to keep your ears safe while enjoying your favorite tunes. Let’s dive into the world of sound protection. How to Choose Best Headphones to Prevent Hearing Loss
When selecting headphones that prioritize hearing protection, it’s crucial to consider factors such as noise isolation, volume limiting, and comfort. Noise-canceling headphones can help reduce ambient noise, allowing users to listen to music at lower volumes, which is vital for preserving hearing health. Additionally, look for models that come with built-in volume limiters to ensure that sound levels do not exceed safe thresholds. Comfort is also key, as headphones that fit well will encourage longer listening sessions without the need to crank up the volume. In the following sections, we will recommend specific headphone models that embody these features and provide tips on how to use them safely.
Furthermore, it’s important to be mindful of the listening environment when using headphones, as even the best models cannot entirely eliminate the risk of hearing damage if used improperly. Taking regular breaks during extended listening sessions can help alleviate ear fatigue and reduce the likelihood of volume creep, where users subconsciously increase the volume to counteract background noise. Additionally, opting for over-ear designs can offer better sound isolation compared to in-ear options, further protecting your hearing. By following these guidelines and choosing the right headphones, you can enjoy high-quality sound without compromising your auditory health.
Ask an Audiologist: What Type of Headphones Are Best for Your Hearing?
Whether it’s music, audiobooks, or podcasts (we suggest checking out Houston Methodist’s On Health podcast), Americans dedicate nearly four hours each day to consuming audio content, as reported by Nielsen.
If you’re interested in listening to a game or the newest romantasy novel without disturbing others, opting for headphones, earphones, or earbuds is the best choice. But how can we safeguard our hearing while enjoying our audio experiences?
We consulted Dr. Mary Williams, an audiology expert at Houston Methodist, about hearing conservation and the safe use of headphones, so you can enjoy your audio without worrying about potential harm.
“There are advantages and possible safety concerns associated with each type of headphone,” explains Dr. Williams. “Sound quality and overall comfort can vary between types and brands, which can influence your listening habits and, in turn, affect your hearing. It’s also important to think about how and when you’ll use headphones, as your general physical safety may be compromised when listening to audio in public spaces.”
Headphones, earphones, or earbuds: What distinguishes them?
If you’ve ever referred to earphones when you meant earbuds or used earphones when you meant headphones, you’re not alone. These terms are frequently swapped, but they describe different devices. In this article, we will generally use “headphones” to encompass all three categories of audio equipment. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to recognize that they are distinct products.
Headphones
Headphones consist of ear cups connected by an adjustable headband. There are various styles of headphones: over-ear, on-ear, closed-back, and bone conduction. The differences are found in the ear cups:
Over-ear headphones: These are typically larger and encompass the entire ear. They can be either closed-back or open-back.
On-ear headphones: These are generally smaller and rest on the outer ear without covering it completely, sitting above the earlobe. This style can also be closed-back or open-back.
Closed-back headphones: These are fully sealed around the ear cups. While the sound might not be as natural, they provide greater isolation and can significantly reduce outside noise. Additionally, those nearby are less likely to hear what you are listening to. However, wearing them for extended periods can make your ears feel warm.
Bone conduction headphones: These are open-ear audio devices that transmit sound through vibrations in the bone to the cochlea, or inner ear, allowing users to hear audio without obstructing the ear canal. This technology is particularly beneficial for individuals who need to stay aware of their environment, such as runners or cyclists.
Earphones
Individuals frequently use the terms earphones and earbuds interchangeably, yet there are distinctions between them. Earphones, also referred to as in-ear headphones or in-ear monitors, can be either wired or wireless. They fit inside the ear canal and typically come with silicone, foam, or rubber tips in various sizes to ensure a comfortable fit. Earphones are capable of blocking more surrounding noise due to the tighter seal created by the ear tips. Users may be exposed to louder sounds at higher decibels while using earphones because of their closeness to the ear canal.
Additionally, earphones might feature ear fins or hooks to secure them during activities such as running. However, this design may lead to discomfort in the ear canal if worn for extended periods.
Earbuds
Earbuds rest on the outer ear’s concha and penetrate the ear canal only slightly. This type is generally made of plastic and typically comes in a single size without any adjustable features. Earbuds permit more external noise since they usually do not fit as tightly. They can be either wired or wireless, and it’s rare to find true noise-cancelling earbuds.
Regardless of the type of audio device you opt for, it’s essential to think about your ear health.
“Using closed-back headphones, earphones, or earbuds for long durations can heighten the risk of irritation or infections in the ear canal, particularly if moisture becomes trapped,” Dr. Williams states. “Be sure to clean your earphones or earbuds regularly according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, and maintain good hygiene. If you experience irritation or signs of infection after using audio devices, consult your physician.”
Are there particular headphone types that are more beneficial for hearing health?
If your audio devices are effective at filtering out background noise, whether through active noise cancellation (ANC) technology or their fit, they may be more advantageous for protecting your hearing.
“Noise cancellation minimizes unwanted external sounds, thereby reducing the necessity to increase the volume,” Dr. Williams explains. “However, it’s crucial to use these headphones in a safe setting where you won’t miss critical alerts or emergency signals.”
Dr. Williams also mentions that noise-cancelling headphones lower the chances of raising the volume, which could lead to potential hearing damage. Nevertheless, they should not be regarded as hearing protection. She recommends utilizing proper hearing protection in loud environments, such as concerts and certain workplaces.
What is a safe volume level for enjoying music through headphones?
We often hear someone exclaim, “turn it up” to express their enjoyment of a tune. Nevertheless, high volume can be detrimental to our auditory health. With certain types of headphones being inserted into the ear canal, listening at elevated volumes for extended periods can lead to hearing problems.
“I typically suggest keeping the volume on devices, like phones or tablets, at or below 50% to safeguard your hearing,” advises Dr. Williams.
The duration of your headphone use also plays a role in safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that it is safe to listen at 85 dB for up to eight hours daily, totaling 40 hours per week. Decibels (dB) measure sound intensity, ranging from 0, which is barely perceptible to the human ear, to 130, which is the pain threshold for sound intensity.
It’s essential to understand that the allowable listening time significantly decreases as the volume rises.
Moreover, the fit of the headphones can influence your listening habits, which is vital for determining how long you can wear them safely.
“The fit is important, as you want headphones to snugly cover your ears or create a good seal to minimize the need to raise the overall volume,” Dr. Williams explains.
For those who use headphones for long durations, Dr. Williams suggests taking breaks.
“It’s advisable to adhere to the 60/60 rule: listen at a maximum of 60% volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a stretch, followed by a brief pause,” Dr. Williams states. “Ideally, you should take a 5-to-10-minute break every hour to allow your ears to recuperate.”
Are there specific brands or models of headphones designed for hearing safety?
Dr. Williams notes that certain headphone brands and models prioritize hearing health. She recommends seeking products that feature volume limiting, noise isolation, or active noise cancellation (ANC). These characteristics help protect your ears by minimizing the necessity to increase the volume.
While not an exhaustive list, here are a few examples that meet these specifications:
– Sony WH-1000XM5 or Sony WF-1000XM5 (earbuds)
– Bose QuietComfort Series
– Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
Dr. Williams highlights that using earphones while you sleep is not inherently damaging, but there are several key precautions to take into account for your auditory health and general comfort.
“Listening to sleep sounds, ASMR, or relaxing music at a low volume (preferably below 50%) can be comforting, but extended exposure to louder volumes might result in hearing impairment,” Dr. Williams notes. “For safer listening experiences, look into sleep-oriented audio equipment such as soft headband headphones or pillow speakers. Choose wireless options to prevent the risk of getting caught in cords. Additionally, setting a timer for the audio to turn off once you drift off and keeping your earphones clean are wise practices to reduce potential problems.”
Indicators of hearing loss, and when to consult your physician Hearing loss can often be overlooked, as it tends to be gradual and subtle. Dr. Williams suggests reaching out to your doctor if you observe any of the following symptoms: How to Choose Best Headphones to Prevent Hearing Loss
Ringing or buzzing sensations in your ears (tinnitus)
Diminished sound clarity
Challenges in comprehending spoken words
Increasing the volume on your television or devices
Discomfort or pain in your ears
Temporary hearing difficulties following the use of headphones, earphones, or earbuds.