Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs - Ultra-Comfy Reusable Hearing Protection for Sleep

Loop Quiet 2 are reusable silicone earplugs built for sleep. They cost about $25 and have 4.1 stars from around 33,600 Amazon reviews. That's a lower average than cheaper earplugs, but it's also by far the biggest sample.

The design

Each plug is flexible silicone with a swappable ear tip. You push it in, twist to seat it, and Loop says that, fitted properly, it shouldn't stick out of your ear. That matters if you sleep on your side, because a plug that pokes out gets pushed deeper by the pillow.

The box has four tip sizes (XS, S, M and L), with medium fitted to start. If they feel loose or sore, try another size before giving up on them. A carry case is included.

How much they block

Loop rates them at up to 24 dB SNR. SNR is the European rating. American packaging usually shows NRR, and the two don't line up exactly, so don't compare this figure directly with a US NRR number. Both are lab results with a perfect fit. In real use you'll get less, especially if the seal isn't right.

Quiet 2 are made to soften noise, not erase it. Snoring, traffic and a TV through the wall should drop to a murmur. You'll still hear a smoke alarm, and you'll probably still hear your alarm clock.

Who it's for

• Side sleepers who find foam plugs uncomfortable
• People who want something reusable instead of a box of disposables
• Anyone whose ears are smaller than average, thanks to the XS tips

Who should skip it

If you want the most blocking for very loud snoring, Mack's putty plugs carry a higher rating on the same European scale (SNR 30 against 24). If you're unsure earplugs will work for you, start with something cheaper.

Alternatives

Mack's Pillow Soft cost about $13 for 12 pairs. The putty seals over the ear opening instead of going into the canal, and Mack's rates them at NRR 22. The 10-pair reusable silicone set costs about $10 and is an easy way to experiment.

Our best earplugs for sleeping guide compares all three types. For snoring in particular, how to sleep with a snoring partner pairs earplugs with masking and other fixes, and sleep divorce covers the last resort.