5 Signs You're Ready to Ditch Your Old Earplugs

Earplugs are one of those things most people don’t think about until it’s too late—or until they realize their current setup just isn’t cutting it anymore.

If you’ve been relying on the same tired pair (or worse, disposable foam plugs on repeat), it might be time for an upgrade.

Here are five telltale signs you're ready to make the switch to Spares:

1. You’re Always Replacing Lost Foam Plugs

If your earplugs come in 50-count bags and disappear faster than socks in the dryer, you’ve got a problem. Foam plugs aren’t designed to last, and most don’t come with a case. That means they end up in the trash—or worse, your pocket lint collection.

Spares come with a dedicated case, are easy to clean, and actually feel like something you want to keep track of.

2. Your Current Plugs Muffle the World

The whole point of hearing protection is to protect your ears - not to make you feel like you’ve been sealed in a soundproof chamber. If you find yourself constantly pulling out your plugs just to hear a conversation or appreciate the music, they’re not doing their job well.

Spares filter sound instead of blocking it, so you hear everything you need—just at a safer level.

3. You’ve Had the Same Pair for... Too Long

Old, beat-up earplugs aren’t just gross - they can be unsafe. Silicone breaks down, filters clog, and sound quality degrades over time. If your plugs are cracked, warped, or yellowing from age, it’s time to let go.

Spares are built to last, but affordable enough to replace whenever you're ready for a fresh set - which could be every five years. Spares are built to last.

4. You Can’t Wear Yours for More Than an Hour

Comfort matters - especially if you’re wearing plugs at work, festivals, or long gigs. If your current pair leaves your ears sore, itchy, or irritated, you're sacrificing wearability for protection.

Spares are made from stainless steel with a soft, body-safe silicone cup designed for long-term wear without the pressure or fatigue.

5. You Want Something That Actually Looks Good

Let’s face it: most earplugs are not winning any design awards by sticking out of your ears like an antennae. If you're done with the neon foam and oversized flanges, Spares offer a clean, low-profile look that works just as well backstage as it does on stage.

Recognize yourself in any of these signs? It’s time to upgrade your hearing protection. 

Grab Your Spares and experience the difference.