How to Use, Clean, & Care for Your Earplugs
If your earplugs look like these, these instructions apply — including all Pro versions of Protectors, Riders, Rangers, and AquaSafe.
How They Fit
1) Prepare the plug
- Identify your Right earplug
(It’s the one with the dot). - *Optionally, spread a thin film of lubricant around the canal portion of each earplug (striped area in diagram).
2) Insert canal first
Line up the earplug with your ear, rotating the top slightly forward.
This helps angle the canal portion so it lines up with your ear canal and starts to slide in.
The goal here is just to get it started - once it's lined up properly, it should seat the rest of the way with a little push and wiggle.
3) Final push
Once the canal portion is started, rotate the top of the plug back to fit it into the bowl of your ear.
The earplug should sit flush inside your ear’s natural contours. To help it seat fully, gently pull your earlobe outward while giving the bottom a firm push and slight wiggle.
4) Lock it in
Once the plug is fully rotated into place, tuck the top wing under the fold of cartilage at the top of your ear. This locks the earplug in securely and ensures it’s fully seated, not sticking out.
Refer to the video above if you're unsure how it should look.
Getting them in
Insert the canal portion first with a quarter-turn rotation. You'll feel it seat and sound will cut out. Then tuck the outer portion into your ear cartilage. Pulling your ear out 90 degrees can help to straighten your ear canal.
Make sure both parts are fully seated - nothing should stick out or it will hurt and affect sound quality.
To remove, just pull out from the top and rotate top forward while pulling it out
How to Wash Them
You can wash your Drifters however you like - just keep it simple. The best way is with warm water and hand soap. Give them a quick rinse and a gentle rub. You can also use a wet wipe if you're on the go. An occasional alcohol wipe is fine too - no harm done.
FAQ
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Are there any extra tips for getting them in properly?
The best tip is to apply a very thin film of lubricant (like Vaseline or the one included) to the canal end of the plugs.
Don't overdo it — just a thin film is sufficient.
As you insert them, place the plug in position, then gently pull your earlobe to the side as you push it in.
It helps to wiggle and shimmy the plug back and forth slightly as you seat it.
They need to go all the way in — like a puzzle piece — to work properly.
How do I know which ear is which?
The plug with the dot is for your right ear.
They feel snug — is that normal?
Yes. They're designed to feel snug — that’s how they block sound effectively.
They shouldn't feel painful or overly tight, but you may need a few nights to get used to the sensation.
If there's any discomfort or pressure, let us know.
How do I clean my Drifters?
As shown in the video above — just use soap and warm water.
Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry or towel them off. Easy.
How often should I clean them?
Clean them whenever they build up wax.
If they look clean and feel fine, you don’t need to clean them every day.
The natural oils from your skin actually help them go in more easily over time.
Can I trim or reshape them?
No.
Cutting or trimming them voids the warranty, and we won’t be able to repair or replace them if they’ve been altered.
What if I drop them or they get lint or dust on them?
Just rinse them off with warm water and wipe clean.
They’re durable and easy to maintain.
I sleep on my side — will they fall out?
No.
Drifters are specifically built for side sleepers.
They should stay in snugly all night.
