Loop earplugs use an “insert and twist” method that differs from traditional foam plugs. Getting the technique right, along with choosing the correct ear tip size, is the difference between earplugs that actually reduce noise and ones that just sit loosely in your ears. Here’s how to get a proper fit and get the most out of whichever Loop model you own.
How to Insert Loop Earplugs
Place the silicone ear tip into your ear canal, then twist the earplug body so it locks into the curve of your outer ear. The circular ring should sit flush against your ear, not sticking out at an angle. You’ll know the seal is right when outside noise drops noticeably and the earplug feels snug without pressure or pain.
If you’re not getting a good seal on the first try, pull your ear slightly upward and back with your opposite hand. This straightens the ear canal and lets the tip slide in deeper before you twist. Once seated, give the earplug a gentle tug. It should resist being pulled out. If it slides freely, you either need a larger ear tip or need to reinsert with a firmer twist.
Choosing the Right Ear Tip Size
Loop earplugs ship with multiple ear tip sizes, and picking the right one matters more than most people expect. The rule is straightforward: if the tip hurts or the earplug sticks out from your ear, go down a size. If the earplug doesn’t feel secure or you’re not getting a noise-blocking seal, go up a size. The correct fit feels comfortable, stays in place without adjustment, and noticeably muffles sound.
Your left and right ears may need different sizes, which is completely normal. Loop also sells XXS tips separately for people who find even the smallest included tips too large. It’s worth testing each size for at least a few minutes rather than just a quick check, since comfort can change as the tip warms up and conforms to your ear canal.
Which Loop Model Does What
Loop currently sells several models, each designed for different noise levels and situations. The key differences come down to how much sound they block.
- Engage 2: The lightest noise reduction at 16 dB (SNR), designed for conversations, socializing, and parenting. You can still hear people clearly while taking the edge off background noise.
- Experience 2: A middle-ground option at 17 dB (SNR), built for concerts, festivals, and live events. It reduces volume while preserving sound quality so music doesn’t sound muffled.
- Quiet 2: The strongest blocker at 24 dB (SNR), meant for focus, travel, and sleep. This is Loop’s best option if your goal is maximum noise reduction.
- Dream: A dedicated sleep earplug with a low-profile design meant to stay comfortable when your head is on a pillow.
- Switch 2: A three-in-one earplug with a mechanical dial that lets you rotate between Engage mode (20 dB), Experience mode (23 dB), and Quiet mode (26 dB) without removing the earplugs.
“Plus” versions of the Engage and Experience models come with an additional accessory called the Loop Mute, a small silicone insert that adds roughly 5 dB of extra noise reduction when you need it.
How to Use the Loop Switch Dial
The Switch 2 has a small dial on the outer ring. To change modes, rotate the dial while the earplug is still in your ear. You’ll feel a soft click when you land on each setting. The thin circle at the front is Engage mode (lightest reduction), the middle position is Experience mode, and the filled circle at the back is Quiet mode (strongest reduction).
This makes the Switch useful for situations that change throughout the day. You might start at a restaurant in Engage mode, then rotate to Experience for a concert afterward, then switch to Quiet on the train home. The redesigned dial on the current version is smoother than the original, so you can adjust with one hand without pulling the earplug out of position.
Reducing the Occlusion Effect
One of the most common complaints with any earplug is the occlusion effect: your own voice sounds boomy and loud inside your head, and you can hear every breath and swallow. This happens because sound vibrations from your voice get trapped in the sealed ear canal with nowhere to escape.
There are two practical fixes with Loop earplugs. First, try the foam ear tips included in the box instead of the silicone ones. Foam tips insert deeper into the ear canal, which reduces the air space where your voice resonates. Second, if occlusion is really bothering you, consider a lower-attenuation model like the Engage. Less noise blocking means more sound escapes outward, which reduces that sealed-in feeling. The tradeoff is less overall noise reduction, but for situations like socializing or office work, it’s usually worth it.
Cleaning and Care
Clean your Loop earplugs regularly with mild soap and warm water. Earwax and skin oils build up on the silicone tips over time, which can affect both the seal and hygiene. Gently wash the tips, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry completely before putting them back in the case.
Avoid alcohol wipes, rubbing alcohol, or harsh chemical cleaners. These can degrade the silicone, causing it to dry out, crack, and lose its flexibility. If wax builds up in the small sound bore of the earplug body, use a thin brush or the cleaning tool included with some models to clear it out gently. Keeping the sound channel clear ensures the acoustic filter works as intended rather than becoming a simple plug that distorts everything.
Getting the Best Seal Over Time
Even with the right size and insertion technique, a few things can affect your seal throughout the day. Jaw movement from talking or chewing can shift earplugs slightly, especially if your ear canals are on the smaller side. A quick press and re-twist usually restores the fit without a full removal.
Silicone ear tips generally hold their shape well, but foam tips compress over time and may need replacing sooner. If you notice your earplugs aren’t blocking as much noise as they used to, worn tips are the most likely culprit. Loop sells replacement tip packs in all sizes, and swapping them out is the easiest way to restore performance before assuming the earplugs themselves have a problem.