Swimmer in ocean wearing reusable earplugs to prevent swimmer's ear

Best Reusable Earplugs for Swimming

Natural sound in – Keep water out

Swimmers need better earplugs for swimming that let you hear and can stay in the water longer. Use our earplugs for swimmer’s ear prevention. Happy Ears Ocean Plastics is a reusable earplugs for swimming.

Effective. Prevents swimmer’s ear.
Guaranteed Fit. Three sizes ensure water tight fit.
Sound In, Water Out. Swim without being disoriented.
Comfortable. Stay in the water and swim longer.
Quality. Made in Sweden since 2010.

Happy Ears Ocean Plastics reusable earplugs medium size green case — Happy Ears Ocean Plastics, Medium

Fit and function guaranteed. Happy Ears are offered in three sizes to ensure a water tight fit. The unique oval shape of Happy Ears are designed to better fit the inner ear canal. Should Happy Ears not fit? No worries, it’s the reason we offer a money back guarantee on each of our starter kits.

Sound in, water out. Happy Ears earplugs are CE Certified with the most even attenuation of ANY non-custom made earplug. This means the sound that does enter your ear is the most natural possible. Swim confidently and for longer without being disoriented. If you love your gear you’ll appreciate swimming with Happy Ears.

Reusable and extremely durable. No other earplug for swimmers offers the quality of Happy Ears. To this day Happy Ears are made in our small factory along the waters edge in Stockholm, Sweden and all of our materials are sourced responsibly from within the EU. Hang around our offices long enough and you’ll hear our CEO saying “durability enhances sustainability”. Making the highest quality, longest lasting earplug is what we do.

A more sustainable earplug. There’s a new earplug for swimmers. More than 1Bil single use earplugs are used and thrown away every year (along with the packaging). Making the first earplug of ocean plastics was a necessity for Happy Ears and our personal commitment to our customers who use Happy Ears earplugs for swimming.

Happy Ears Ocean Plastics are the only swimming earplugs made from recovered ocean plastic — sourced from the North Atlantic. Certified at 27 dB, they’re our best earplugs for swimming and the most sustainable option in the category.

Why use reusable earplugs for swimming?

Earplugs for swimming are essential for anyone who wants to protect their ears from water, bacteria, and irritation. Whether you’re swimming in a pool, ocean, or lake, water entering the ear canal can lead to discomfort and infections.

Using waterproof earplugs for swimming helps create a secure seal that keeps water out while allowing you to stay comfortable and focused in the water.

What is swimmer’s ear and how does it happen?

Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is a common ear infection caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal.

When moisture remains in the ear, it creates a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

Itching inside the ear
Redness and swelling
Pain or tenderness
Fluid discharge
Temporary hearing loss

How earplugs help prevent swimmer’s ear

Using the best earplugs for swimming is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.

Blocking water from entering the ear canal
Keeping ears dry during and after swimming
Reducing bacteria buildup
Protecting sensitive skin inside the ear

Benefits of using earplugs for swimming

Prevent water from getting trapped in the ear
Reduce the risk of swimmer’s ear
Improve comfort during swimming
Protect ears in cold water
Ideal for frequent swimmers and travelers
Help people with sensitive ears or past infections

What are the best earplugs for swimming?

Reusable waterproof earplugs

Durable and long-lasting
Easy to clean
Provide consistent protection
Eco-friendly

Moldable silicone earplugs

Shape to your ear
Comfortable for some users
May wear out faster

Foam earplugs (not recommended)

Can absorb water
Poor waterproof protection

How to choose the right earplugs for swimming

Choose the correct size (small, medium, large)
Ensure a secure seal without discomfort
Avoid earplugs that feel loose or leak water
Look for low-profile designs for comfort

Are earplugs safe for swimming?

Yes—earplugs for swimming are safe when used correctly.

Insert with clean hands
Do not push too deep
Clean regularly
Stop using if irritation occurs

Final thoughts: Protect your ears while swimming

Using earplugs for swimming helps you keep water out, prevent swimmer’s ear, and protect long-term ear health.

Swimmer after training in ocean preventing swimmer's ear

How to prevent swimmer’s ear (expert tips)

Here’s a complete routine for swimmer’s ear prevention:

1. Use properly fitted earplugs

The best earplugs for swimming should create a tight but comfortable seal.

2. Dry your ears after swimming

Tilt your head to remove water
Use a towel for the outer ear
Avoid cotton swabs

3. Avoid trapped moisture

Moisture buildup increases infection risk.

4. Keep your ears clean

But don’t over-clean—this can irritate the skin.

5. Use earplugs in high-risk environments

Public pools
Lakes and oceans
Frequent swimming sessions

6. Clean reusable earplugs regularly

Wash with mild soap and water and let them dry fully.

Best swimming ear plugs – Outdoor swimmer

Our Discovery Packs

Original Discovery Pack

$37.50

View product

Happy Ears Ocean Plastics Earplugs package

Ocean Plastics Discovery Pack

$37.50

View product

“Best earplugs for swimming”

People at pool after swimming with earplugs

Our eco-friendly earplugs

Happy Ears Ocean Plastics — Launched in 2021, Happy Ears Ocean Plastics were the first earplugs in the world made from post-consumer ocean plastics. Our raw material is sourced from the North Atlantic ocean — plastic that has been recovered from coastal and marine environments and would otherwise have remained in the ocean or entered the food chain. Happy Ears OP are CE Certified to reduce volume 27 dB, the highest rating of any reusable earplug available, and are our best earplugs for sleeping and swimming. Named “Best Eco-Friendly Earplugs” by Rolling Stone in 2026.

Sound in, water out.