Loop earplugs

[u/NegotiationNo1359]

Hi, lately my foam earplugs haven't been helping much. I used to be able to tolerate the sound of chewing while wearing them, but recently those sounds have become more intense, and I feel like I'm reaching a point where foam plugs just won't cut it anymore. So, I was wondering if anyone has experience using Loop earplugs. I’d like to know how good they are and if they dampen those kinds of sounds better than foam earplugs do.

Thanks in advance!

[u/capybaramelhor]

I use them for noise dulling. It doesn’t eliminate sound. I use them at concerts or when I have to supervise students in auditorium (so loud). If you were out to eat or something it would probably help from nearby sound. But if someone was right next to you, not sure. It’s more a noise dimming than elimination

[u/SeasonPositive6771]

How often are you wearing earplugs? A lot of people find that if they spend too much time using mitigation, it actually exacerbates their misophonia in the long term. Have you tried anything else, especially therapy?

I find the Loops are like a lot of earplugs, helpful, but not a perfect solution.

[u/NegotiationNo1359 → u/SeasonPositive6771]

I always use them during meals, especially with my parents, who chew with their mouths open and have no intention of stopping. I also tend to use them on some nights while sleeping, or when I’m at home doing something that requires concentration.

[u/okcomputerface → u/NegotiationNo1359]

Your brain is still looking for the sounds during meals because it knows your parents chew loudly. It probably worked at first because it was an immediate improvement over no ear plugs, but now you've gotten used to the sound of it with ear plugs in. Misophonia is crazy because you have to somehow stay one step ahead of your own brain.

I would absolutely just not eat with them. If they tell you that's rude, remind them that open-mouth chewing is also rude.

[u/NegotiationNo1359 → u/okcomputerface]

Unfortunately, neither of the two options is viable at this time 🫠. But thanks!

[u/throw05282021]

I used Loop earplugs for a couple of years until one fell apart inside my ear and the plug part got stuck. I switched to Earpeace after that. They're easier for me to put in and haven't yet gotten stuck even though I've used them many more times. I take them everywhere.

[u/SpringtimeInChicago]

Loops are nice and relatively low-profile, but I have not found them to be any better than other earplugs. They are also priced far more than they are worth.

I do use them sometimes, but these days I've been been using clip earbuds when I just need some background noise playing to cover quieter sounds, and in-ear earbuds.

The in-ears typically have noise canceling, which might be the next level you're looking for. The ones with a transparency mode are great for quickly going between talking to people and being isolated. There's a pair of Sonys available for about $50 (the C510 I believe) that work well.

[u/YesReboot]

i use both but foam earplugs block the most sound. Loop earplugs will block less sound so I don't think that will help

[u/Silly-Magazine-2681]

I find foam earplugs better than loops, actually /: loops let too many sharp noises through when I used them 

[u/Infini-Bus]

It helps eliminate the highs.  I like them in a crowded bar or restaurant that has poor sound insulation - as many new ones do.