You listen every day—commutes, work calls, workouts. But loud sound and the wrong fit can cause lasting damage. The good news: small changes make a big difference. This page gives clear, practical tips to protect your hearing, pick the right gear, and keep headphones clean and comfy.
Volume matters more than you think. Aim for the 60/60 rule: keep volume at or below 60% and limit listening to about 60 minutes before a break. Sounds over 85 dB can harm hearing with prolonged exposure; at 100 dB damage can start in 15 minutes. Use built-in volume limits or apps that track exposure.
Noise-cancelling headphones help you avoid cranking volume in noisy places. If you can’t use ANC, pick over-ear models that seal well instead of tiny earbuds that sit deep in the ear canal. When walking in busy areas, avoid full isolation—stay aware of traffic and announcements by using an ambient or transparency mode.
Give your ears regular breaks. For long listening sessions, follow a 50/10 pattern: 50 minutes on, 10 minutes off. If you notice ringing, muffled hearing, or discomfort after listening, step down the volume and rest your ears. Those are signs you pushed too hard.
Decide what matters: sound quality, noise isolation, comfort, or portability. Over-ear headphones usually offer better sound and comfort for long use. In-ear monitors (IEMs) are great for workouts and travel, but pick ones with proper tips that seal without pressing too deep.
Check specs that matter: impedance (higher needs more power), sensitivity (higher means louder at lower power), and frequency range (wide range doesn’t always equal better sound). If you use a phone only, low-impedance cans (under 50 ohms) will pair better without needing extra gear.
For active lifestyles, choose sweat-resistant and secure-fit models. For home or studio use, open-back headphones give more natural sound but leak audio and won’t block noise. Think about battery life for wireless sets and quick-charge options if you travel a lot.
Comfort is non-negotiable. Look for soft ear pads, adjustable headbands, and light weight. Replace foam or silicone tips and ear pads when they wear out to keep fit and hygiene on point.
Cleaning and safety are simple: wipe pads and headbands with a damp cloth, clean silicone tips with mild soap, and avoid sharing in-ear tips without swapping them. Don’t sleep with in-ear buds inside—pressure and movement can damage eardrums or push wax deeper.
When to see a pro: if you get persistent tinnitus, sudden hearing loss, or ongoing ear pain, book a visit with an audiologist. Quick action often prevents worse problems.
Small habits—lower volume, regular breaks, the right fit, and basic cleaning—keep your music and podcasts enjoyable without trading away your hearing. Want help picking a model for commuting, running, or studio work? We can point you to features to focus on for your needs.
