Swimming is a wonderful part of the holiday, especially for children. Earplugs worn whilst swimming protect against water getting into the ears. They help prevent discomfort and promote ear health, so that children can enjoy the water and their holiday safely and carefree. But even if they simply don’t like the feeling of water in their ears, earplugs can provide greater comfort and relaxation.
Hearing aid users should wear earplugs when swimming
Adults can also use earplugs when swimming. It is particularly important to protect your ears properly from water if you wear a hearing aid. If a hearing aid gets wet, it can cause various problems. Water can block the microphone or speaker, causing the sound to become distorted or muffled. Moisture can cause a short circuit, causing the device to stop working. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to corrosion of internal components, which can cause permanent damage. In addition, the battery may function less effectively or leak due to contact with moisture (Sander, 2025).
Prevention: why swimming earplugs are important
1. Preventing swimmer’s ear
Wearing swimming earplugs is important to protect your ears properly whilst swimming. They prevent water from entering your ear canal. If water does get into your ear, you may develop swimmer’s ear, an unpleasant and painful inflammation of the ear canal. Swimmer’s ear often feels like a stinging pain, sometimes accompanied by itching or a blocked sensation (RIVM, 2018) . Fortunately, this can be treated effectively with Otinova. Otinova is a safe, effective ear spray for treating the symptoms of swimmer’s ear. Prevention is better than cure, so swimming earplugs are a smart choice for a worry-free dip.
2. Protection against bacteria
Swimming earplugs not only help keep water out, but also form an important barrier against bacteria that may be present in swimming water. Particularly in swimming pools, lakes or the sea, bacteria can enter your ear canal via the water and cause irritation or infections there (RIVM, 2018). Do make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before inserting the earplugs. Use hand sanitiser, for example, to prevent bacteria from entering your ear via your fingers. Also ensure your ears are dry before inserting the earplugs; this helps them seal better and stay in place more effectively. Naturally, the earplugs must also be clean before you insert them.
3. Keeping your ears dry
Keeping your ears dry is essential when swimming for people with sensitive ear canals, those who wear a hearing aid, or anyone who simply wants to avoid getting water in their ears. People with sensitive ear canals or who wear a hearing aid may suffer from irritation and infections for longer ((NHG), 2021). By keeping your ears dry using waterproof earplugs, you reduce the risk of ear problems. This helps prevent hearing damage and nasty infections, so you can swim with peace of mind and enjoy water activities without worry.
Recommendations: what to look out for
1. Choose waterproof earplugs
It is important to use waterproof swimming earplugs if you want to protect your ears whilst swimming. Not all earplugs are equally effective at keeping water out, so make sure you choose earplugs that are specifically designed to block water. These seal your ear canal tightly, preventing water or bacteria from getting in. One example of this are Putty Buddies. These earplugs are made from soft silicone that you can easily mould to the unique shape of your ear. This ensures they seal perfectly and effectively keep water out. Putty Buddies are comfortable, reusable and ideal for both children and adults who want to protect their ears properly against water. Thanks to their extra-sticky texture, they stay securely in place in your ears, allowing you to enjoy the water without a care in the world.
2. Comfortable earplugs
Comfortable swimming earplugs are essential, because if they don’t fit properly, wearing them quickly becomes a nuisance. Swimming earplugs with a good fit seal well and feel soft and comfortable. That way, you can be sure your ears are properly protected, because having fun is only fun when you don’t have to worry about a thing.
3. Earplugs in fun colours
Swimming earplugs don’t have to be boring. These days, they come in all sorts of colours, so you can choose one that really suits you. Whether you prefer striking red, soothing blue, fresh green or cheerful pink. It’s nice to wear a colour that makes you feel comfortable and like yourself. For children in particular, a favourite colour can make wearing earplugs a lot more fun. Adults also appreciate it when something practical can be a little personal. That way, you combine protection with style and can enjoy getting into the water.
4. Pair with a swimming headband
It is strongly recommended that you wear earplugs in combination with a swimming headband. A swimming headband, often made from comfortable neoprene, ensures that the earplugs stay securely in place during your water activities. This is particularly useful for children, as they often play more boisterously in the water, which could cause the earplugs to shift or fall out.
The Ear Band-It is a good choice, as this swimming headband keeps the earplugs securely in place whilst swimming. The Ear Band-It provides an extra layer of protection against water and makes wearing earplugs much more reliable. The Ear Band-It is a comfortable and sturdy swimming headband, designed by an ENT specialist to keep swimming earplugs, such as Putty Buddies, securely in place during water activities. Whether you’re above or below the water, the Ear Band-It offers reliable protection against water getting into your ears. The Ear Band-It is available in sizes S, M and L, so there’s a fit for every age, in a range of colours and prints. This keeps your ears dry and well protected, so you can head into the water with peace of mind.
By making a conscious choice to use good-quality swimming earplugs and the right combination of protection, swimming remains enjoyable and safe for both children and adults. By paying attention to hygiene, fit and watertightness, you reduce the risk of irritation and keep your ears in good condition during any water activity. This allows you to continue enjoying swimming without interruption and prevents problems that would otherwise arise unnecessarily.