Safe Listening with Earbuds and Earpieces

by | Aug 13, 2025 | Patient Resources

In today’s world, earbuds and earpieces have become essential for everyday life including music, podcasts, and calls. However, improper use can harm your hearing. Here are some tips to ensure safe listening habits.

1. Keep the Volume Low
Experts recommend keeping the volume at or below 60% of the maximum level. Listening at high volumes for extended periods can lead to permanent hearing damage.

2. Follow the 60/60 Rule
Limit your listening to 60 minutes at a time with a 60% volume cap. Take breaks to give your ears time to recover.

3. Use Noise-Canceling Features
Noise-canceling earbuds reduce the need to crank up the volume in noisy environments. This helps protect your ears from excessive sound levels.

4. Choose the Right Fit
Ill-fitting earbuds can leak sound, causing you to increase the volume. Opt for earbuds or earpieces that fit snugly and comfortably.

5. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
While noise-canceling features are helpful, stay aware of your environment, especially when walking or biking. Safety comes first.

6. Regular Hearing Checks
If you frequently use earbuds, consider routine hearing tests to catch any early signs of damage.

By practicing these habits, you can enjoy your favorite audio content while protecting your hearing for the long term. Safe listening is smart listening!

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Zarina Naizam, AuD, CCC-A

Zarina Naizam, AuD, CCC-A, is a licensed clinical audiologist practicing in New York State. With a Bachelor of Science Degree in pre-med from Long Island University and a Clinical Doctorate in Audiology from Salus University, Dr. Naizam specializes in adult and pediatric hearing testing, as well as the fitting, programming, and repairing of all makes and models of hearing aids. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association and is a Fellow of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology. Driven by personal experience, witnessing the impact of hearing impairment on her mother's life, Dr. Naizam became inspired to improve the lives of others through better hearing. Her passion lies in helping patients restore their ability to connect with their loved ones, recognizing the emotional impact of hearing loss on individuals and their families. To stay up-to-date with advancements in technology, she regularly attends seminars and workshops.