From playlists and podcasts to conference calls, you use your headphones for numerous applications throughout the day. While excellent for privacy, all that up-close listening can do a number on your hearing. If you want to continue using your headphones without experiencing hearing loss, use the three tips below.

3 Ways to Prevent Hearing Loss While Using Headphones

1. Limit the Volume

For the human ears, there’s a direct correlation between volume and listening time. For example, while you could listen to city traffic at 86 decibels for about six and a half hours before experiencing hearing loss, your ears will suffer damage after less than one minute at a typical rock concert (113 db).

The same applies to headphones—if you lower the volume on your smartphone earbuds to 60%, you can listen safely for an hour. At 100%, you’d experience hearing loss in a matter of minutes. Therefore, it’s crucial to limit your volume, especially if you’re planning on using headphones throughout the day.

2. Try Over-the-Ear Headphones

While they might not be as sleek or discrete as those in-ear versions, over-the-ear headphones are an excellent choice for individuals who are listening for extended periods. That’s because the closer a sound is to you, the more damaging it can be to your ears. While earbuds must be inserted into the ear canal, over-the-ear models put a bit more distance between you and the sound source. 

3. Invest in a Noise-Canceling Pair

Many headphone manufacturers have noise-canceling versions, which are perfect for zoning out during a noisy commute or a long plane ride. They also come in handy for preventing hearing loss.

The louder the environment is, the higher you’ll have to raise the volume on your device to hear the music or conversation. By blocking out surrounding noise, you can keep to that 60% mark, or perhaps even lower.

If you’re worried about hearing loss due to long-term headphone use, head to Heartland Better Hearing Inc of Elizabethtown, KY. For over 22 years, they’ve been helping area residents take better care of their ears, offering comprehensive testing and custom hearing aids. To make an appointment with a hearing instrument specialist, call (270) 735-9352. You can learn more about this A+-rated member of The Hearing Aid Association of Kentucky by visiting the website.