The best earplugs for sleeping and how to safely use them
UC expert provides commentary to Prevention
Sleep is an important factor of your health, and wearing earplugs while sleeping can help eliminate background noise so you get more quality rest.
Ann Romaker, MD, professor of Internal Medicine in the University of Cincinnati's College of Medicine and medical director of medical director of the University of Cincinnati’s Sleep Centers, spoke with Prevention on tips to select the right earplugs for each individual.
The best earplugs are the ones that are most comfortable and improve sleep for each person. Romaker said overall she'd recommend silicone putty earplugs that “conform to each user’s individual ear canal” because “they significantly decrease the noise level and are well tolerated.”
Featured photo at top of a person holding an earplug. Photo/nito100/iStock.
Related Stories
Using ice to fight a painful side effect of chemotherapy
April 30, 2026
Pediatric oncology nurse Alisha Bruner uses a simple ice-based therapy to reduce painful chemotherapy side effects, turning her DNP project into a low-cost, high-impact solution for vulnerable patients
CCM welcomes new violin faculty member Danbi Um
April 29, 2026
UC College-Conservatory of Music Dean Pete Jutras has announced the appointment of Danbi Um as CCM's new Assistant Professor of Violin. Her faculty appointment officially begins in August 2026. Praised by The Strad as an “utterly dazzling” artist, with “a marvelous show of superb technique” and “mesmerizing grace” (New York Classical Review), Um captivates audiences with her virtuosity, individual sound and interpretive sensitivity.
Finding purpose in the hardest moments
April 28, 2026
After nearly leaving nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Matt Depenbrock found renewed purpose in neonatal intensive care, leading him to develop Project HEALS—an innovative initiative aimed at improving NICU nurses’ confidence and competence in end-of-life care.