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Key takeaways
Not every child needs earplugs, but they are often recommended for children who get frequent ear infections, have swimmer’s ear, or have ear tubes. In these cases, earplugs help reduce water entering the ear canal and lower the risk of irritation or infection.
Yes, swimming earplugs designed specifically for children are generally safe when they fit correctly and are cleaned regularly. Soft silicone earplugs are usually preferred because they are gentle on the ear and less likely to cause discomfort.
For most children, soft silicone earplugs designed for swimming work best. They sit at the entrance of the ear canal, create a watertight seal, and are comfortable enough for longer swimming sessions. Foam earplugs are usually not recommended for swimming.
Children with ear tubes often need extra protection in water. Many ENT specialists recommend using swimming earplugs to prevent water from entering the middle ear through the tubes, especially during swimming lessons or active water play.
Earplugs should be rinsed after every use, cleaned regularly with mild soap, and stored in a dry case. Proper care helps maintain hygiene, comfort, and effectiveness over time.
For many children, swimming is a regular and joyful activity. However, for some kids, water entering the ear canal can increase the risk of irritation, earaches, or infection. This is especially true for children who swim frequently, have sensitive ears, or have had ear infections in the past. In certain situations,
ENT specialists recommend using earplugs for kids to help keep water out of the ear canal. When chosen and used correctly, child-specific earplugs can provide an extra layer of protection without causing discomfort or interfering with swimming enjoyment.
When Are Swimming Earplugs Recommended for Children?
Swimming earplugs are not necessary for every child, but they are often recommended in specific situations. Children who are prone to swimmer’s ear, experience frequent ear infections, or have ear tubes may benefit most from added water protection.
Water that becomes trapped in the ear canal can create a moist environment where bacteria grow more easily, increasing the risk of ear ache in children. Many parents also choose earplugs as a preventive measure when children swim regularly in pools, lakes, or the sea.
Are Swimming Earplugs Safe for Children?
Swimming earplugs designed specifically for children are generally safe when used properly. Problems typically occur when earplugs are too rigid, poorly fitted, or not cleaned regularly. For a detailed breakdown of risks and age considerations, see our article on whether earplugs are safe for children.
Soft, child-sized earplugs made from skin-friendly materials reduce pressure and are less likely to cause discomfort. Correct insertion and removal, along with regular cleaning, play an important role in keeping ears healthy.
Do Children with Ear Tubes Need Earplugs for Swimming?
Children with ear tubes often require additional protection during water activities. Ear tubes help ventilate the middle ear, but they also create a direct pathway for water to enter if not properly protected. Even small amounts of water can lead to discomfort or infection. For a full overview of children with ear tubes and swimming, including what ENT specialists recommend, see our dedicated article.
Soft, flexible silicone designs are usually preferred because they create a reliable seal while remaining gentle on sensitive ears. For very active swimmers or children attending lessons, combining earplugs with a swim band or headband can provide extra security.
What Types of Earplugs Are Suitable for Children?
Not all earplugs are equally suitable for children. Disposable foam earplugs are generally not ideal for swimming because they absorb water and are difficult to fit securely in small ears. Silicone earplugs are the most common choice. They are soft, reusable, and sit at the entrance of the ear canal, making them comfortable and effective for blocking water.
Bollsen Kidz+ earplugs are designed specifically for children’s ear canals, creating a watertight silicone seal without inserting deeply. For a full comparison of the best earplugs for kids across different use cases, see our buyer guide.
How Do Well-Fitting Earplugs Help Children in the Water?
When earplugs fit well and stay in place, children feel more confident and relaxed in the water. Poorly fitting plugs can shift or cause discomfort, leading children to remove them during swimming.
Soft, skin‑friendly designs help children move freely without frequent adjustment. This allows them to focus on swimming and play rather than on ear discomfort, contributing to a more positive experience in the water.
How Should You Clean and Store Children’s Swimming Earplugs?
Cleaning Instructions
After each use, earplugs should be rinsed with lukewarm water to remove chlorine, salt, or debris. For deeper cleaning, a mild soap can be used, followed by thorough rinsing and air drying. Avoid harsh chemicals or hot water, which may damage the material.
Proper Storage
Store earplugs in a clean, dry case away from heat and direct sunlight. Proper storage helps maintain their shape and prevents contamination. Teaching children to participate in cleaning and storage routines can also encourage consistent use.
Store earplugs in a clean, dry case away from heat and direct sunlight. Teaching children to participate in cleaning and storage routines can also encourage consistent use. Choosing earplugs that are easy to clean and simple to store makes it more likely that protection stays in place as a habit rather than an afterthought.
Before founding BOLLSEN, Alen held leadership roles in multinational companies, where he specialized in business development and digital transformation. He later applied this expertise to launch BOLLSEN as a brand built on German engineering, eco-conscious design, and evidence-based health outcomes.
Alen oversees every stage of the product lifecycle—from R&D to Worldwide distribution—ensuring compliance with medical standards while optimizing for user comfort and sustainability. He actively collaborates with researchers and health professionals to enhance hearing wellness awareness and product innovation.
Beyond his work at BOLLSEN, Alen is passionate about sharing insights on topics such as tinnitus, misophonia, and hearing science, as well as broader interests in e-commerce, the NBA, and cycling. His writing reflects a blend of professional expertise and personal curiosity.
Today, Alen continues to drive BOLLSEN’s mission: to deliver premium, effective hearing protection that prioritizes health, performance, and the planet.
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