How to clean silicone earplugs (and when to replace them)

Reusable earplugs are easy to look after. A quick rinse each morning keeps them clean, comfy and working for months. Here is the simple routine, what to avoid, and how to tell when it is time for a new pair.

Why should you clean your earplugs?

Your ears make wax and a little natural oil. Every night, some of it ends up on your earplugs. If you never clean them, it builds up. That makes them feel less comfy, makes them slip out more easily, and means last night goes straight back into your ear tonight.

How do you clean silicone earplugs?

It takes about 30 seconds.

• 1. Rinse under warm waterWarm, not hot. Run each earplug under the tap.
• 2. Rub gently with your fingersRoll the soft tip between clean fingertips to lift off any wax or oil.
• 3. Look and rinse againIf you can still see wax on the tip, give it one more rinse.
• 4. Air dry fullyLay them on a clean towel and let them dry all the way. This matters more than anything else.
• 5. Back in the caseOnce they are dry, put them away so they stay clean and you can find them tonight.

Rinse, dry, case. That is the whole routine

What should you never use on silicone earplugs?

• SoapIt can leave a thin film behind that is hard to rinse off. Water is all they need.
• Alcohol or cleaning wipesHarsh cleaners can dry out silicone and wear it out faster.
• Boiling waterToo much heat can change the shape of the soft tip.
• The dishwasherThe heat and the strong soap are both too much for them.
• Pins or sharp toolsDigging out wax can tear the tip. Rinse and rub instead.

Why do earplugs need to dry fully?

A damp earplug shut in a closed case stays damp. That is how earplugs start to smell and feel grimy. Letting them dry in the air on a clean towel first keeps them fresh.

How do you clean the earplug case?

Once a week, wipe the inside of the case with a damp cloth and leave it open to dry. A clean case keeps clean earplugs clean.

How long do silicone earplugs last?

With a rinse after each use, most people get months of nightly use from a pair. Silicone holds its shape well. It is time for new ones when you notice any of these:

• It stops springing backSqueeze the tip. If it stays squashed, it will not seal well.
• The tip tears or splitsEven a small tear can rub and let sound in.
• It feels stiff or stickySoft silicone that has gone hard or tacky has done its job.
• You push it in harder than beforeThat usually means the tip has lost its shape. A fresh tip fixes it.

The case lasts much longer than the tips, so look after it and keep using it.

Can you share earplugs?

It is best not to. Earplugs sit inside your ear, so each person should have their own pair. If you and your partner both wear them, pick a different colour each so nobody mixes them up.

Questions people ask

Can I wash my earplugs with soap?

For our silicone earplugs, warm water is all you need. Soap can leave a film behind. Rinse, rub gently with your fingers, and let them dry fully.

How often should I clean my earplugs?

A quick rinse every morning after you take them out. Wipe out the case about once a week.

Why do my earplugs smell?

Usually they went back in the case while still damp. Rinse them, let them dry fully in the air, and clean the case. If the smell stays, it is time for a new pair.

Can you clean foam earplugs?

Most foam earplugs are made to be used a few times and then thrown away. Washing them can ruin the foam. If you want earplugs you can clean and keep, choose silicone. See which earplugs are best for sleeping.

New to earplugs? Here is how to put them in the right way. Every Vespré shape comes with a case and 30 nights to decide.