If you're going somewhere with your baby and expect high noise levels - such as Bonfire Night, a party, or a festival - it's wise to invest in a pair of baby ear defenders for your baby's comfort and safety.
Even as adults, extreme noise can be really uncomfortable. You don't want your baby getting scared or upset, or even experiencing ear damage, from loud noises such as on a plane. You'll also be able to use them at family parties, fireworks displays, summer festivals, concerts and cinema trips. Here are our picks of the best baby ear defenders:
The best baby ear defenders
1 of 6Alpine Muffy Baby Hearing Protection
These baby ear defenders are designed not to put any pressure on the baby's head; they're made without any metal or hard parts, so they're extremely soft to use. They come with a spare headband, plus a matching carry bag to keep them safe while storing or travelling. Can be used from 3 months to 3 years, and are really comfy because of their elastic headband, which is available in either pink or blue. Comes with two bands, plus a carry bag. Doesn't contain any metal
£25.95
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2 of 6Edz Kidz Ear Defenders
These ear defenders are sturdy and durable; they're available in a wide range of colours - if your little one is old enough, it'll be fun to let them choose which colour they'd like. They're lightweight and fold up easily, making them great for taking out and about. Suitable from 6 months. Available in 9 colour options. Can be used for older kids as well. Comes as a customizable set with carrying bags, replacement pads, and mix-and-match end caps.
3 of 63M Peltor Kids Ear Muffs
These baby ear defenders come in four brightly coloured designs, are durable and well-made with low profile ear cups and no protruding parts. The ear muffs are thin, plus it's great that you can replace the cushions and inserts should they become dirty. They have a high SNR value (27dB)Fit children up to 7 years old. Available in four bright colours
£25.99
4 of 6Snug Safe n Sound Kids Ear Protectors
These straight-forward ear defenders are pretty simple; they're adjustable, putting no pressure on the baby's head, and are lightweight too. They're suitable from 6 months of age. AdjustableLightweightCome with a five-year warranty. Suitable from 6 months
5 of 6Zohan Kids Ear Defenders
Available in four colourful designs, the flexible headband of these defenders suit different head sizes. They also come with a carry bag for easy storage. Four fun designs Comes with a carry bag Adjustable headband. Lightweight.
£19.99
6 of 6Iwinna Ear Defenders
These colourful ear defenders are made from high-quality skin-sensitive ABS ear cups and foam-filled cushions to ensure safety and durability while enhancing sound-blocking ability. They come in pink or blue - it's a shame other colours aren't available. They're suitable from birth to 18 months - again, not as long-lasting as some others on our list that are suitable for older children too. Soft foam cushions. Comes in pink or blue Suitable from birth to 18 months Adjustable Come with a carry bag.
How to choose baby ear defenders
Ear defenders for babies need to be designed specifically for them – you can’t use adult earplugs or any other ear protection designed for adults. When buying baby ear defenders, one of the most important factors is the fit. Your children need to be able to move their heads when using them without the protectors slipping or falling off. Also, you should make sure that they don't put too much pressure on their heads.
Related: The best calming products for dogs and cats on bonfire night
Always use baby ear defenders and protectors safely
Before using baby ear defenders and protectors make sure you read all the use instructions and recommendations and bear in mind that most of these products are not supposed to be used for long periods at a time.
What decibels are safe for children?
Your baby is more sensitive to loud noises compared to you because her ear canal is smaller so the sound pressure that is generated in the ears is much more. According to babyhearing.org, "noises softer than 80 dB will not damage hearing unless the exposure lasts for several hours."
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Jade Moscrop is the Deputy Editor for WhatsTheBest, specialising in lifestyle topics. She also writes for Closer, Heat, and Mother&Baby.
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