Image: MomJunction Design Team
Keep your child’s ears protected from the cold and loud noises with our list of the best baby ear protection. When it’s cold, your baby has to be swaddled in warm clothes, such as sweaters, socks, gloves, and caps. Ear protection is also necessary to keep the cold away. They also prevent exposure to noise pollution and thus are important if you take your child to crowded places.
You might think that using a regular cap to cover your baby’s ears might be enough, but they are not equipped to protect your baby from noise. Newborns have delicate eardrums that can easily be damaged when continuously exposed to harsh traffic sounds or loud music, and they need to be protected with the best baby headphones. These ear protections are available in various sizes, designs, and colors to go with your baby’s outfits and to suit their requirements. So, check out our list and choose the right ear protection for your child.
Top Picks
Why Do Infants Need Baby Headphones?
As infants and babies are more sensitive and susceptible to loud noises than adults are, it is important to cover their ears with headphones for added protection. Along with this, protecting them with little earmuffs for babies can help reduce noise-induced hearing loss and also help the child sleep better, and the benefits of sleeping are many.
When Should Infants Wear Baby Headphones?
Children who fall between the ages of 0-18 months will do well with baby-friendly headphones. As any noise over 85 dBA can affect a baby’s ear negatively, parents should keep earmuffs or headphones handy at all times.
Catherine Moore, a newborn care specialist and early childhood development specialist, says, “Noise-blocking headphones for newborns should be used only when needed, to block loud damaging noise, as they may affect their ability to hear important sounds, such as a caregiver’s voice. It’s important to prioritize their auditory development and use alternatives like creating a quiet environment when needed.”
13 Best Baby Headphones For Ear Protection
1. Best Lightweight: Dr. Meter Kids Protective Earmuffs
Safeguard your kids’ ears from music, traffic sounds, and other disturbing elements with the Dr. Meter Kids Protective Earmuffs. Placed among the best baby Headphones, these children’s earmuffs come with comfortable ear cushions and a headband crafted with high-density soft foam covering. The band is wrapped by a leather belt for a comfortable and snug fit. It is also equipped with adjustable stainless pins that are connected to the band and ear cushions to fit any head size. These earmuffs for babies have been thoroughly tested and have a noise reduction rating of 27 NRR. Use it while flying or at parties to keep your little ones’ ears safe. They meet the safety norms of European Safety Standards and American Standard Institute. If you want to find out more about this dad-and-mom-approved product and its usage, check out this review on YouTube.
Material: PU leather, high-density sponge| Color: Blue| Noise reduction rating (NRR): 27 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- 360° rotatable ear parts
- Foldable body
- Lightweight
- Available in a variety of colors
- Soundproof
Cons
- May not be suitable for sounds louder than 100 dB.
Review:
A user writes, “Thanks to these earmuffs, going to the stadium on match days or traveling with my two-year-old is fun. They fit better than most headphones and ensure my baby is not disturbed by the noise around her.”
Point to consider2. Best Portable:BBTKCARE Baby Hearing Protection Headphones
Image: Courtesy of BBTKCARE
Infants usually get cranky when they wake up to loud noises or constantly hear loud sounds. Keep the loud noise at bay using the BBTKCARE Baby Hearing Protection Headphones. One of the best infant headphones, these are designed for newborns and kids aged 3 months to 2 years. It comes with an adjustable band that puts zero pressure on the ears of little ones, and the soft ear cups and headband help keep your little ones skin rash-free. It can be trusted by moms and dads as noise levels of 28 dB – 31 dB are cut off with the help of these headphones. If you need further convincing, check this YouTuber’s review out.
Material: Plastic, leather| Color: Blue| NRR: NA| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- For infants and toddlers
- High-quality materials
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- The product may emit a strong plastic smell initially.
Review:
A reviewer says, “These cute earmuffs work well for my baby in noisy environments. They are comfy, adjustable, and help with multitasking and sleep. However, they will need to be adjusted occasionally.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 11,126 reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Flexible: Friday 7Care Baby Headphones
The Friday 7Care baby earmuffs can help protect your baby’s sensitive ears, allowing you to go to crowded, noisy places easily. Designed for newborns, infants, and toddlers, these noise-canceling headphones for babies are adjustable and enable your little one to wear them for hours without discomfort. These baby ear defenders are available in various fun colors. They have a thick shell for added protection and enough internal space to prevent pressure. Replete with useful features, these mom-tested headphones easily fall among the best baby headphones for your little one.
Material: Plastic| Color: Green| NRR: NA| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Soft padded headbands
- Non-toxic cushion cups
- Cancels noise effectively
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Might be bulky for some children
- Some might find the size to be a little small
Review:
According to a tester, “I bought these headphones for my 9-month-old in preparation for noisy settings on our summer vacation to Mykonos. The headphones are outstanding—suitable for many occasions, including firework displays and outdoor parties. I love it, but my child tends to take them off.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 8,688 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
Dr. Meter Kids Protective Earmuffs Best Lightweight | BBTKCARE Baby Hearing Protection Headphones Best Portable | Friday 7Care Baby Headphones Best Flexible | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,096 | 11,126 | 8,688 |
| Price | $13.79 | $20.99 | $17.96 |
4. Best Travel-Friendly: 3M Kids Hearing Protection Adjustable Headband
Block out loud noise levels at any loud events or simply a lawnmower with the 3M Kids Hearing Protection Adjustable Headband. These noise-canceling headphones for babies are designed for kids 3 years and up and block out close to 23 dB. The cushioned earpiece and headband come with an adjustable stainless steel clip for a better fit. These daddy-and-mommy-approved wireless headphones are ideal for muffling noise while your kids are studying, sleeping, or traveling.
Material: Plastic, padded| Color: Purple| NRR: 23 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Foldable headband
- Flexible body
- Travel-friendly
- Long-lasting and durable material
Cons
- The band might be a little heavy on the heads of little kids.
Review:
According to a user, “I chose these for my daughter’s motorsports event. It offers excellent noise sealing and a comfortable fit and has a sturdy construction.”
5. Best Durable: G & F Products Safety Muffs
With six layers of soundproofing foam, these premium-quality headphones are designed to absorb different bands of sound frequencies. The baby earmuffs can block around 34db, making them suitable for fireworks, festivals, concerts, and sports events. Furthermore, the headphones are ideal for children and adults with a large head size as they are adjustable by more than one inch. With this one, your little one can rest or nap calmly through parties, flights, and events without loud noises disturbing them or harming their delicate ears.
Material: ABS| Color: Blue| NRR: 34 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Solid industrial-grade quality
- No battery or charge required
- Comfortable
- Cups twilt and swivel for the right fit
Cons
- Might be a little heavy for young babies
- Might run small for some
Review:
A user writes, “These earplugs are excellent. I had my doubts initially; however, they really do block sound. I make sure my baby wears it whenever we head to the supermarket—definitely recommend it for noise reduction.”
6. Best Baby Sound-Proof:Alpine Muffy Baby Hearing Protection Baby Soundproof Headphones
For about 18 months, toddlers have a soft spot on the top of their skull called the fontanelle. Alpine’s Hearing Protection Baby Soundproof Headphones, one of the best baby headphones in the market, are uniquely designed, keeping the fontanelle in mind, and are soft on the little ones’ ears. The headband is machine-washable and you can use the spare one provided until it dries. The baby-friendly over-ear headphones cut off 23 dB of noise levels and prevent early hearing damage in infants.
Material: ABS, PVC, PU, polyester | Color: Pink| NRR: 23 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- No silicone
- BPA-free
- Carry pouch included
- CE Certified
- Affordable headphones
Cons
- The elastic headband may stretch out in the long run.
Review:
A parent writes, “At a fireworks display, I gave them to my 6-month-old, who remained quiet the entire time. They offer a snug fit, and both my children are okay with these due to their adjustable size. The foam padding makes the fit secure but gentle. The headband could have been a bit longer.”
Quick tipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 5,603 good reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Skin-Friendly: My Happy Tot Noise Cancelling Headphones
The cute earphones made from high-quality, durable material will work like a charm for your little one to cut out disturbing noises. Gentle on ears and fontanel, these baby ear defenders offer adequate cushioning while not pinching or causing any discomfort. Moreover, these are adjustable, making them suitable for infants, toddlers, and kindergarteners. Made with BPA-free plastic and high-quality foam, these are suitable for a baby’s delicate ears.
Material: Foam, plastic Color: Blue| NRR: NA| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Decent noise cancellation
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight
- Works while sleeping too
Cons
- Might slide a little with constant head movement
- May run small
Review:
A reviewer says, “For my family, these headphones have been a lifeline. They have been used regularly for years by my son and daughter. And now, they work great at shielding my baby’s ears whenever we go to crowded places.”
8. Best Sweat-Proof:Neiko Adjustable Hearing Protectors
These baby noise-canceling headphones are the ideal way to ward off loud sounds and help you and your baby go about your day in peace. The headphones are designed to fit the heads and ears of adults and kids above 10 years of age. These earphones are CE-certified and can protect your ears from getting damaged.
Material: Plastic| Color: orange, Black| NRR: 26 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Lightweight
- Travel-friendly
- Sweatproof
- The earpiece can fit in music earbuds.
Cons
- The plastic headband may be uncomfortable for your baby when sleeping.
Review:
A user writes, “It’s an impressive product at a reasonable price. The headphones are perfect for a noisy household as it has decent sound isolation. Ensure older children at home do not stretch it, as it’s meant for the baby’s gentle head and ears.”
9. Best Comfortable: Green Devil Noise Cancelling Headphones
Made of premium-quality faux leather and ABS, these cute and comfortable noise-canceling headphones for kids and babies can protect your child from cold wind and noise throughout the year. These do not cut out noise; instead, they muffle loud noises, making these headphones suitable for children with autism and sensory sensitivity. With a 27.4 noise reduction rate, these thoroughly tested headphones can be worn comfortably to ceremonies, concerts, airports, and other loud environments and crowded places without hurting the little one’s delicate ears.
Material: Premium faux leather, ABS| Color: Green| NRR: 27.4 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- One size designed to fit both kids and adults
- Portable headphones
- Easy to store
- Soft cushioned headband
Cons
- May not be suitable for rough usage
- May not be waterproof
Review:
According to a tester, “These work perfectly at air shows and concerts. They offer awesome comfort and can be adjusted for extended wear. The carrying bag is wonderful, as my child tends to remove the headphones often.”
10. Best Easy-To-Store: Alpine Muffy Noise Cancelling Headphones
The lightweight and comfortable baby headphones can protect your child’s delicate ears from noise and wind. They cut out noise from 21 to 28 dB, making them suitable for places with loud noises, like stadiums, concerts, and sports activities. With this device on, your baby can travel without any fuss. Made from high-quality materials, these headphones look sturdy and trendy, ensuring long-lasting use. These headphones are available in various stylish colors and are safety-tested. Moreover, they are easy to clean and adjust to suit your child’s needs.
Material: Plastic, padding| Color: Green| NRR: 25 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Silicone-free
- Comes with a handy storage bag
- Comfortable and soft headband
- Autism-friendly
Cons
- Some might find it a bit tight around the head
- May be a little hard to put on for younger children
Review:
A parent writes, “Easy to clean, cozy, adaptable, these headphones fit me and my children. It muffles noise without being too tight on the head or irritating the ears. It is quite helpful for my son with autism in noisy settings. Well worth the money!”
11. Best Snug Fit: Banz Earmuffs Infant Hearing Protection
Banz’s lightweight, stylish, unisex baby earmuffs fit comfortably on your little one’s ears without causing any pain. They can protect your child’s delicate ears from loud noises and cold wind. Furthermore, their advanced noise protection makes these muffs ideal for sporting events, music concerts, wedding receptions, movies, laundry, and car races. They are one of the best infant headphones and are suitable for newborns through 24 months and above.
Material: Plastic, foam| Color: Butterfly| NRR: 31 dB| Adjustable: No
Pros
- Does not pinch
- Comes with enough cushion width
- Works well for air pressure
- Durable
Cons
- May cause slight redness on the skin after prolonged wearing
- Some might feel there is more foam on one side than the other
Review:
A reviewer says, “A friend suggested these, and I am so grateful. Even when I take them off, my baby fusses to keep them on. For packed games, like a baseball game, these headphones should be in your diaper bag.”
12. Best Water-Resistant: Zohan Kids Ear Protection Headphone
The pack of two noise-canceling headphones for babies can protect your children from loud and disturbing noises. Designed for children with sensory issues who need extra protection, these have an NRR of 22dB, making them suitable for fireworks, concerts, air shows, and sports. Further, these baby ear defenders are lightweight, not feeling heavy or compressing the child’s head. Also, made from high-quality skin-safe ABS plastic, these do not contain metal parts. All these useful features take them a notch above the rest and place them among the best baby-friendly headphones.
Material: ABS, foam| Color: Blue, green NRR: 22 dB| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Adjustable
- Earpads are made from thick, sound-isolating foam
- Suitable for decorating with stickers
- Comes with a storage bag
Cons
- Some might not find the noise muffling to be sufficient
- May not suit rough use
Review:
A parent writes, “These handle noise nicely, and my son with sensory problems loved wearing them at Monster Truck Wars. Guess I can use them myself at a concert. Although the colors and design are lovely, I feel they may not withstand rough use.”
13. Best Scratch-Proof:LUCID Audio Hear Muffs For Kids
Kids who are 5 years and up travel to school daily and love to watch ball games. The standard traffic noise and the hooting and shouting of the crowd at the stadium can damage their ears forever. Keep them protected with baby headphones for noise-canceling. The headphones for kids are designed with anti-slip material and a padded headband that stays on your little one’s ears. It controls up to 20 dB of noise and protects your child’s hearing in all kinds of noisy situations. The headphones completely close the ear and are very light on the head of little children.
Material: Plastic, foam| Color: Red| NRR: NA| Adjustable: Yes
Pros
- Scratch-proof body
- Easy to use
- Snug fit
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- The ears might turn sweaty.
Review:
According to a user, “I was looking for another pair to replace my daughter’s outgrown headphones. These are exactly what we need. My spouse and I can wear them too, and we are surprised by how well they reduce noise.”
How To Choose The Right Baby Ear Protection?
Keep the following tips in mind to make the right choice from this list.
- Size: Headphones come in different sizes and fits. A few are designed for newborns and some of them have adjustable headbands. Choose earmuffs that offer a snug fit for your child. Since kids grow quickly, earmuffs that come with an adjustable headband can be the best choice for ear protectors. Do not buy anything oversized or undersized for your little ones.
- Durability: The ear protectors you choose for your little ones must be strong and durable to resist wear and tear. Your kids will take a fraction of a second to throw it down or jump on it. Take your pick from the best infant headphones that are flexible and strong to bear such shocks.
- Function: The function of ear protectors is to prevent noise and sometimes cold weather too. Each headphone is designed to control some noise levels. If you plan to take your child to a race track or a concert, look for safe and effective headphones with 20 dB NRR and more to protect them from loud noises.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which children will benefit the most from hearing protection?
Infants are perhaps the ones that can reap the most benefits from hearing protection aids. Newborns have eardrums that are very tender and highly susceptible to damage. With the headphones on, you can prevent ear damage and mental strain caused by the noise.
2. Can I use headphones to help my baby sleep?
Yes. Kids get distracted by the noise of a vacuum cleaner or even a washing machine at home. While traveling, the honking vehicles keep them awake. With safe and effective earmuffs, you can avoid their distraction and make them fall asleep anywhere.
3. How can I tell if the headband will fit?
The headband you get for your kid or yourself must have a snug fit on your little one’s head. It should completely cover your little one’s ear. This is how you can get the right fit of headbands.
4. Are noise-canceling headphones good for babies?
Yes, noise-canceling headphones are good for babies, as these are helpful in canceling loud noises by 70%. They work by generating anti-noise waves and do not release any harmful low-level radiation (1).
5. When should a baby wear ear protection?
When getting exposed to noisy environments, wearing ear protection prevents the baby from noise-induced hearing loss. You can use baby headphones or ear muffs when attending events like concerts, noisy parties, and firework displays, when situated near loud construction work sites, and when traveling in airplanes. You may also use noise-reduction headphones to put your baby to sleep in a noisy environment.
6. What is too loud for a baby?
Any sound that is louder than 85 decibels can cause hearing-related problems in a baby (2).
7. Do newborns need ear protection?
Wearing ear protection is not necessary for newborns. However, if you think your newborn is getting exposed to noises over 85 decibels, your newborn needs ear protection to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is an experienced reviewer who specializes in writing about baby products. She has shortlisted some of the best baby ear protectors offered by trusted brands. To help her readers choose the right product for their kids, she has listed down the pros and cons of these top ear protectors and also included a buying guide with valuable tips. The baby ear protectors on this list can keep the cold away, prevent exposure to loud noises, and come with many useful features. They are made of high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting, comfortable usage.
The Bottom Line
Baby headphones protect your baby’s ears from loud noises, especially in crowded places and when traveling, and keep them warm during winters. It is important to find a headphone or ear protector that offers a snug fit—ensure it is made of anti-slip material and is well-padded. Further, buy one with a noise-canceling function, and ensure it is made of lightweight, durable, and skin-friendly material. We recommend the Dr. Meter Kids Protective Earmuffs owing to their adjustable design, soft cushioning, and noise-reduction features. The BBTKCARE Baby Hearing Protection Headphones feature a travel-friendly design, making them appropriate for flights. Another great pick is the noise-canceling Friday 7Care Baby Headphones with an ergonomic design, thick shell, and pressure prevention.
Infographic: Why You Should Protect Babies From Loud Noises
Protecting babies and children from loud sounds is crucial for their hearing health and overall well-being. By minimizing exposure to excessive noise, using ear protection, and creating quiet environments, parents can safeguard their little ones’ delicate ears and promote healthy auditory development. Check out the infographic below to discover why protection against loud noises is paramount.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Are Noise Canceling Headphones Safe For Babies
https://soundproofguide.com/are-noise-cancelling-headphones-safe-for-babies/ - NoiseInduced Hearing Loss
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/hearing-loss/noise-induced-hearing-loss-in-children
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