We know the struggle of getting a toddler to keep anything on their head. That is why we tested dozens of the top hearing protection devices for babies and kids. We looked for the best blend of comfort, adjustability, style, and effective noise reduction.
These picks will keep your child’s hearing safe without causing a meltdown. With the noise diminished and a comfortable fit, you can finally enjoy your outing knowing your little one is safe.
- No interference when sleeping
- Provides great fit
- Cushioned ear cups fully cover ears
- High NRR for great protection
- Adjustable and suitable for all ages
- Safety standards certified
- Padded headband and soft ear cups
- Light on the ears
- Great for daily use
- Variety of designs
- Built-in microphone
- Multifunctional wire control
- Light-duty hearing protection
- Compact design
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Product Selection Criteria
When evaluating soundproof headphones for your little one, consider these critical features:
- Safety Certifications: Look for the NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) label. This means the gear has been tested and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR): Check the number associated with the headphones. The NRR indicates how many decibels the earmuffs block; a higher number equals better protection.
- Comfort: Ensure the earmuffs have plenty of padding. We look for soft materials and cushioned earphones to ensure the baby tolerates wearing them for longer periods.
- Adjustability: Look for headbands that grow with your child. Head shapes vary wildly, so we evaluate the band and earcup adjustability to guarantee a snug, safe fit.
- Aesthetics: Pick a design your child actually likes. Older babies and toddlers are much more likely to keep their gear on if they like the colors or patterns.
Product Reviews
We have tested the top-rated options to bring you the safest and most comfortable picks for your child.
Baby Banz Earmuffs Hearing Protection
Best for Infants and Toddlers
The slim profile of the Baby Banz earmuffs is a lifesaver for packing light. They are lightweight and do not add unnecessary bulk to your little one’s head, which helps keep them comfortable.
Despite their small size, they pack a punch with an NRR of 31 decibels. You get peace of mind knowing your baby’s ears are safe, provided you ensure the cups fit snugly.
The soft headband is gentle on delicate skin, avoiding the irritation that often causes babies to pull headphones off. Plus, the cushioned cups have enough depth to accommodate growing ears.
They come in fun prints and colors, making them a cute accessory rather than a medical-looking device.
Pros
- Low profile prevents interference when sleeping.
- Provides a secure fit for smaller-than-average heads.
- Padded headband rests gently while cups fully cover the ears.
Cons
- Babies younger than 3 months may be too small for these.
- The headband pressure can feel tight on larger toddlers.
Our Ratings
Decibel Defense Hearing Protection Ear Muffs
Best for Sporting Events
If you frequent loud events like monster truck rallies or football games, you need serious protection. These earmuffs offer an impressive NRR of 37 decibels, making them the heavy hitters of our list.
They are versatile enough for all ages, fitting toddlers through adults. This is great for sharing, though resizing them requires two hands and a bit of patience.
Comfort is key for long events, and the wide headband helps distribute weight evenly. The padded ear cups add to the cozy factor, so your child is less likely to fuss with them during the game.
We also appreciate the foldable design for easy storage. Plus, the vivid colors were a huge hit with our kid testers.
Pros
- Highest NRR on our list for maximum protection.
- Adjustable sizing fits toddlers, teens, and adults.
- Meets strict safety certification standards.
- Comfortable enough to wear with glasses.
Cons
- Blocks high-frequency noise better than low-frequency rumble.
- The stiff adjustment mechanism makes resizing tricky.
Our Ratings
Muted Designer Hearing Protection
Best for Autism
Sensory overload is a real challenge, and these earmuffs are designed to help. They come in trendy patterns like flamingoes and airplanes, making them a cool accessory rather than a chore to wear.
Many autistic children have heightened hearing sensitivity (2). Daily life can be overwhelming, so having comfortable, stylish gear is essential for reducing anxiety.
With an NRR of 27 decibels, they dampen the chaotic background buzz without blocking out the world entirely. This allows your child to remain aware of their surroundings while feeling secure.
The high adjustability means these can serve your child from toddlerhood well into their teenage years, providing a consistent comfort object during times of change.
Pros
- Soft padding on the headband and ear cups prevents pressure points.
- Lightweight construction allows for all-day wear.
- Reduces sensory input effectively for daily use.
- Durable enough to withstand rough handling.
Cons
- Headband tension can make them difficult for kids to put on alone.
- Older children with larger heads might find the fit too snug.
Our Ratings
HearTek Kids Earmuffs
Best Budget Noise-Canceling Headphones
You do not need to spend a fortune to get quality protection. These HearTek earmuffs are an excellent budget-friendly choice that still gets the job done safely.
The mounted ear cups pivot to distribute pressure evenly, ensuring a comfortable seal. This self-adjusting feature helps protect ears without constant fiddling.
While they are advertised for toddlers to teens, note that the headband width is not adjustable. This limits their lifespan compared to other models, but for the price, they are a solid pick.
They collapse down small into an included travel bag, making them perfect for tossing in the diaper bag “just in case.” With an NRR of 27 decibels and ANSI S3.19 certification, they are perfect for parades or fireworks (3).
Pros
- Available in attractive colors and patterns.
- Collapsible design is great for travel.
- Very affordable price point.
- Safety tested and approved for peace of mind.
Cons
- Headband width is not adjustable.
- Padding is slightly thinner than premium models.
Our Ratings
IClever HS19 Kids Volume Limiter Headphones with Microphone
Best for iPads
If you are looking for audio headphones rather than pure safety earmuffs, these iClever headphones are a smart choice. Their standout feature is the volume capping, ensuring your child cannot damage their hearing by cranking the volume too high.
Constructed to survive life with kids, they are flexible and designed to twist and bend without snapping.
They work seamlessly with tablets, phones, and computers, making them perfect for road trips or remote learning.
Pros
- Includes multifunctional wire control.
- Features a built-in microphone for calls or classes.
- Soft padding ensures comfort during long movies.
Cons
- Sizing tends to run smaller than average.
- Does not offer high NRR protection for loud events.
Our Ratings
Fnova Hearing Protector Earmuffs
Best Hearing Protection for Big Kids
For preteens heading to their first rock concert, these professional-grade defenders are the way to go. They boast a high NRR of 34 decibels, offering serious protection near loud speakers.
The design is sleek with colored accents, giving them a bit of personality without looking childish. Your kid can choose a color that matches their style.
Durability is a major plus here; they are built with a hard plastic shell and two layers of noise-dampening foam. They feel solid and ready for abuse.
They adjust easily to fit growing kids and can even expand to fit adults. The swivel cups and padded headband ensure they do not feel like a vice grip on the head.
Pros
- Stylish design appeals to older kids.
- High NRR suitable for concerts and machinery.
- Collapsible and lightweight for portability.
- Robust construction lasts for years.
Cons
- You must use the included earplugs to reach the full 34dB rating.
- Some users report a poor fit on very large heads.
Our Ratings
Vanderfields Kids Hearing Protection Earmuffs
Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Airplanes
Air travel is stressful enough without worrying about bulky gear. These Vanderfields earmuffs are ultra-compact and lightweight, making them ideal for carry-on bags.
With an NRR of 26 decibels, they dampen the engine roar enough to help your child sleep but do not block sound completely. This is a safety bonus, as your child can still hear your voice when you speak to them.
The padded cups and lined headband are designed for comfort, even when resting against an airplane seat. They fit a wide range of ages, from small children to smaller adults.
Pros
- Perfect for light-duty protection on planes.
- Fun colors make them attractive to kids.
- Compact design saves space in luggage.
- Includes a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Not ideal for extremely loud environments like shooting ranges.
- Can feel tight if worn with thick-framed glasses.
Our Ratings
FAQs
Do Babies Need Ear Protection for Loud Noises?
Yes, babies absolutely need ear protection. Their ear canals are smaller, increasing the pressure entering the ear, and their hearing is more sensitive than adults. Exposing them to loud sounds without protection can cause permanent hearing damage.
At What Age Can Babies Wear Ear Protection?
Babies can wear ear protection from birth, though most earmuffs are sized for infants 3 months and older. For newborns, look for specific “0-2 years” models or elastic headband styles that do not put pressure on the soft spots of the skull.
Can Infants Wear Earplugs?
No, infants should not wear earplugs. They pose a serious choking hazard and can be uncomfortable or damaging to tiny developing ear canals. Over-the-ear earmuffs are the safest choice for young children.
What Is Too Loud for a Baby?
Any noise exceeding 85 decibels is considered potentially damaging. For reference, a vacuum cleaner is about 70dB, while city traffic or a noisy restaurant can easily hit 85dB. If you have to shout to be heard, it is too loud for the baby.
Is Noise Canceling the Same as Ear Protection?
No, they are different. “Noise-canceling” usually refers to electronic technology in audio headphones that counteracts background drone (like an airplane engine). “Hearing protection” (like safety earmuffs) physically blocks sound waves to prevent damage. For safety at loud events, use certified hearing protection earmuffs.
How Do I Protect My Baby’s Ears at a Concert?
Use high-quality baby earmuffs with a high NRR (25dB or higher). Ensure they create a full seal around the ear. Additionally, stay as far back from the speakers as possible and take quiet breaks outside the venue if your baby seems distressed.
Can Babies Sleep With Earmuffs On?
Yes, babies can sleep with earmuffs on, and it is often helpful during travel or noisy events. However, ensure the headband is not too tight and that the earmuffs do not slide down over their nose or mouth while they sleep.
