Go Soundproof

We independently review all recommended products and services. When you make a purchase using our links, we may earn a commission.

7 Best Earplugs for Noise Reduction [Noisy Neighbours] 2023: Tested and Tried

January 16, 2024
best earplugs for noise reduction

Are you tired of being woken up in the middle of the night by your noisy neighbors? Do you dread the sound of footsteps stomping above you or music blaring through the walls?

Well, fear not my sleep-deprived friend, because we have the ultimate solution for you: the best earplugs for noise reduction to deal with noisy neighbours in 2024.

According to a recent survey conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, noise is one of the top culprits disrupting our sleep, with almost 40% of respondents reporting that they are awakened by noise at least a few nights per week.

That's where the best earplugs for noise reduction come in.

But with so many options on the market, how do you know which ones to choose? That's where we come in.

As someone who has had their fair share of noisy upstairs neighbors and blaring music through thin walls, I've tried and tested a variety of earplugs to find the best ones for people in similar situations.

So, without further ado, let's dive into the best earplugs for noisy neighbours uk.

We'll cover everything from the most comfortable options to the most effective noise reduction levels and everything in between.

Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to peaceful slumber with these top-notch earplugs.

Types of Earplugs

Before diving into specific earplug recommendations, it's important to understand the different types of earplugs available.

The three most common types are foam earplugs, silicone earplugs, and custom molded earplugs.

  • Foam Earplugs

    Foam earplugs are a popular choice for blocking out noise. They're affordable and easy to find at most drugstores. To use them, simply roll the foam earplug between your fingers to compress it, then insert it into your ear canal. The foam will then expand to fill your ear canal and create a seal, blocking out noise.

  • Silicone Earplugs

    Silicone earplugs are another option for blocking out noise. They're reusable and tend to be more comfortable than foam earplugs since they don't expand as much. Silicone earplugs are often designed with ridges or flanges to create a seal in your ear canal.

  • Custom Molded Earplugs

    Custom molded earplugs are the most expensive option but also the most effective. These earplugs are made to fit the exact shape of your ear, providing maximum noise reduction and comfort. They require a visit to an audiologist to have a mold made of your ear, which is then used to create the custom earplugs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Earplugs for Noisy Neighbours

When choosing earplugs, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best ones for your needs.

1. Comfort

Comfort is a key consideration when choosing earplugs, especially if you'll be wearing them for extended periods of time.

Foam earplugs can be uncomfortable for some people since they expand to fill your ear canal, creating a sensation of pressure.

Silicone earplugs and custom molded earplugs tend to be more comfortable since they don't expand as much.

2. Noise Reduction Level

The level of noise reduction you need will depend on how loud your neighbors are and your own sensitivity to noise.

Foam earplugs generally provide the most noise reduction, followed by silicone earplugs and custom molded earplugs.

3. Reusability

If you're looking for an eco-friendly option or simply don't want to keep buying new earplugs, consider reusable options like silicone earplugs and custom molded earplugs.

4. Price

Earplugs can range in price from a few dollars for a pack of foam earplugs to hundreds of dollars for custom molded earplugs.

Consider your budget when choosing earplugs and decide whether the extra expense of custom molded earplugs is worth it for you.

Top Picks for Best Earplugs for Noise Reduction

Best Overall Earplugs for Noise Reduction

Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs

Photo: Amazon

33dB Highest NRR | Comfortable fit for all ear sizes | Made with low-pressure foam for maximum comfort | Perfect for sleeping, snoring, travel, concerts, studying, and loud noise

 What we like

  • Provides a high level of noise reduction with an NRR of 33dB
  • Made with low-pressure foam for maximum comfort
  • Fits all ear sizes comfortably
  • Suitable for a wide range of noisy environments, including sleeping, snoring, concerts, studying, and loud work environments
  • Affordable and comes in a pack of 30 pairs

 What we do not like

  • May not be suitable for people with very sensitive ears as they may cause discomfort if not inserted correctly

Best for: People who want a comfortable and effective solution for blocking out noise from noisy neighbors, snoring, and loud environments.

Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are designed for maximum comfort and noise reduction. With a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 33dB, these earplugs are perfect for blocking out the sound of noisy neighbors, snoring, concerts, studying, and loud work environments.

Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are disposable and should not be reused

For best results, insert the earplugs into your ear canal and hold them in place for a few seconds until they expand to fit your ear

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

Best Max Lite Foam Earplugs for Noise Reduction

Howard Leight by Honeywell Max Lite Foam Earplugs

Noise reduction rating of 30 dB | Easy to insert and remove | Made with non-irritating, smooth foam | Disposable for convenience | Bright green color for easy visibility

 What we like

  • Comfortable fit
  • Effective at blocking out noise
  • Affordable

 What we do not like

  • May not be as effective for extremely loud noises or snoring

Best for: People who want a comfortable and affordable option for blocking out noise from noisy neighbors

The Howard Leight by Honeywell Maximum Lite Low Pressure Disposable Foam Earplugs are an excellent choice for those who want to block out noise from noisy neighbors.

These earplugs are designed with low pressure foam that expands gently in your ear canal, providing a comfortable fit that stays in place throughout the night.

These earplugs are ideal for those with smaller ear canals

The low pressure foam can take a bit longer to expand fully, so make sure to give them a few seconds before inserting them in your ears

They may not be as effective for extremely loud noises or snoring

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

29dB noise reduction rating | Made from a soft, comfortable foam | Uncorded for easy insertion and removal | Comes in a convenient pillow pack

 What we like

  • Soft and comfortable foam
  • Great noise reduction
  • Easy to insert and remove

 What we do not like

  • May not fit all ear sizes and shapes

Best for: Sleeping, studying, and other quiet activities

The 3M E-A-R Classic Earplugs are a great choice for those who need to block out noise for sleeping or concentrating.

These earplugs are made from a soft, comfortable foam that conforms to the ear canal, providing a secure fit and excellent noise reduction.

They are also uncorded, making them easy to insert and remove.

The 3M E-A-R Classic Earplugs are disposable and should not be reused

These earplugs are not recommended for use in high noise environments, such as construction sites or factories

Be sure to follow the instructions for proper insertion and removal to ensure maximum effectiveness

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

 What we like

  • Soft and comfortable foam material contours to your ears for a snug and secure fit
  • Disposable for convenient use on the go
  • Effective at blocking out noise with an NRR rating of 29
  • Beige color makes them discreet and easy to wear in public
  • Great value for the price

 What we do not like

  • Not recommended for use in water

Best for: The Flents Foam Ear Plugs are best for people who want a comfortable, versatile, and effective option for blocking out noise in a variety of situations.

The Flents Foam Ear Plugs are made from a soft, comfortable foam material that contours to your ears for a snug and secure fit.

They have an NRR rating of 29, which means they are effective at blocking out noise in a variety of situations, including sleeping, snoring, loud noise, traveling, concerts, construction, and studying.

The beige color makes them discreet and easy to wear in public.

The Flents Foam Ear Plugs are made from a soft, comfortable foam material that contours to your ears for a secure and snug fit.

They are also disposable, making them a convenient option for use on the go.

The NRR rating of 29 makes them effective at blocking out noise, and the beige color makes them discreet and easy to wear in public.

The Flents Foam Ear Plugs are not recommended for use in water, so they should not be used while swimming or bathing.

They are also not suitable for use as hearing protection in extremely loud environments, such as construction sites or industrial settings.

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

Made of soft and moldable silicone putty | Provides excellent noise reduction | Comes with a carrying case | Can be reused multiple times

 What we like

  • Soft and moldable for a comfortable and secure fit
  • Excellent noise reduction
  • Can be reused multiple times
  • Comes with a carrying case

 What we do not like

  • May take some time to get used to

Best for: Sleeping, Snoring, Swimming, Travel, Concerts, and Studying

Mack's Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs are the original moldable silicone putty ear plugs.

They are designed to mold to the unique shape of your ear for a comfortable and secure fit.

These earplugs are perfect for sleeping, snoring, swimming, travel, concerts, and studying.

Plus, they come with a handy carrying case so you can take them with you wherever you go.

These earplugs may take some time to get used to, especially if you're not used to moldable earplugs.

They may not be suitable for people with smaller ear canals.

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

Best Custom Molded Earplugs for Noise Reduction

Decibullz Custom Molded Earplugs

Custom molded for a perfect fit | Made from thermoplastic material for comfort and durability | Noise reduction rating of 31dB for maximum protection | Available with cord or lanyard options | Comes with a carrying case for easy storage

 What we like

  • Custom fit provides maximum comfort and noise reduction
  • Wide variety of options and accessories available
  • High noise reduction rating for maximum protection

 What we do not like

  • Molding process can be time-consuming

Best for:  Shooting, hunting, construction work, loud concerts, swimming and water activities

Decibullz earplugs are made from thermoplastic material that can be easily molded to fit the unique shape of your ear canal.

They come with a variety of options, including a cord for easy removal and storage, and a lanyard for swimming or water activities.

With a noise reduction rating of 31dB, they provide the highest level of protection against loud noises.

The molding process takes a bit of time and patience to get the perfect fit

Some customers have reported difficulty getting the earplugs to stay in place during certain activities

These earplugs are not designed for sleeping and may not be as comfortable for extended wear as some other options

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

Custom molded for a perfect fit | Made from soft, medical-grade silicone | Universal fit audio filter provides 20dB of noise reduction | Comes with a carrying case

 What we like

  • Custom molded for a perfect fit
  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
  • Universal fit audio filter provides 20dB of noise reduction
  • Durable and long-lasting

 What we do not like

  • Custom molding process takes time and effort

Best for:   Musicians, concert-goers, construction workers, and anyone who needs maximum noise reduction.

These earplugs are custom molded to your ear canal for a perfect fit.

They are made from a soft, medical-grade silicone that is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

The earplugs come with a universal fit audio filter that provides 20dB of noise reduction, making them perfect for concerts, work, and loud environments.

The custom molding process takes a bit of time and effort.

You'll need to visit an audiologist to have impressions made of your ear canals.

The earplugs are also not recommended for use in water.

Last updated on 2024-01-16 /Affiliate Links/ Images from Amazon

Tips for Getting a Good Night's Sleep Despite Noise

The best earplugs for noisy neighbours are super hero's for the good night sleep, but there are also several other tips for getting a good night's sleep despite noise.

Use white noise. White noise can help drown out other noises and create a calming sleep environment.

There are several white noise machines and apps available that can be used to create a soothing background noise.

Try a fan. Similar to white noise, a fan can create a gentle background noise that can help drown out other noises.

Talk to your neighbor. If the noise is coming from your neighbor, consider talking to them about the issue. They may not realize how loud they're being and may be willing to make some changes.

Consider soundproofing. If the noise is a persistent issue, consider soundproofing your apartment. This can be done with materials like acoustic foam or mass-loaded vinyl.

Conclusion Of Best Earplugs for Noise Reduction

And that's a wrap on our guide to the best earplugs for noise reduction.

We hope you found this article helpful and informative.

Remember, when choosing earplugs, it's important to consider factors like comfort, noise reduction level, reusability, and price.

Don't be afraid to try out a few different types to see which works best for you.

And if you're still having trouble getting a good night's sleep despite earplugs and other methods, don't hesitate to reach out to your landlord or property manager for assistance.

They may be able to offer solutions or mediation with your noisy neighbor.

With the right tools and strategies, you can reclaim your sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and energized.

Here's to peaceful, restful nights ahead.

So whether you're dealing with noisy upstairs neighbors or just general noise pollution, these earplugs are sure to do the trick.

We've tested and tried them ourselves, and can attest to their effectiveness in blocking out unwanted noise and helping us get the rest we need.

So go ahead, try out a few different options and see which ones work best for you.

And don't forget to spread the word to your fellow sleep-deprived friends and neighbors.

Together, we can take back our nights and sleep soundly once again.

FAQS About Best Earplugs for Noise Reduction

What are the best earplugs for dealing with noisy neighbors?

The best earplugs for dealing with noisy neighbors are those that offer a high level of noise reduction, are comfortable to wear, and are reusable. Some popular options include Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs, Howard Leight by Honeywell Max Lite Low Pressure Foam Earplugs, and Flents Quiet Contour Earplugs.

Can earplugs really help me get a good night's sleep?

Yes, earplugs can be an effective tool for blocking out unwanted noise and helping you get a good night's sleep. When used in combination with other strategies like white noise machines and blackout curtains, earplugs can greatly improve your sleep quality.

How can I deal with noisy upstairs neighbors?

If you're dealing with noisy upstairs neighbors, earplugs can be a great solution. You can also try talking to your neighbors about the issue, contacting your landlord or property manager for assistance, or using other sound-blocking tools like noise-cancelling headphones or acoustic panels.

How can I reduce noise from noisy neighbors?

There are several strategies you can use to reduce noise from noisy neighbors, including talking to your neighbors about the issue, contacting your landlord or property manager for assistance, using sound-blocking tools like earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, and even considering soundproofing your space with acoustic panels or rugs.

What are the best earplugs for noise reduction?

The best earplugs for noise reduction are those that offer a high level of noise reduction and are comfortable to wear. Some popular options include Mack's Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs, Howard Leight by Honeywell Max Lite Low Pressure Foam Earplugs, and Flents Quiet Contour Earplugs.