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πŸ“ The 85 dB Rule πŸ”” Tinnitus Prevention βœ… Safe Listening 🎧 Headphone Safety
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Headphone & Earbud Safety

1.1 billion young people are at risk of hearing loss from unsafe listening habits. Here's how to enjoy music without the damage.

60
percent volume
60
minutes max
The 60/60 Rule: Listen at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes, then take a break.

🎧 Volume Safety Checker

Where do you usually set your volume?

50%
At this volume, you can listen for about 8 hours safely.

Why Headphones Are Risky

Sound goes directly into your ear canal. Unlike speakers where sound disperses, headphones deliver concentrated audio straight to your eardrum.

At max volume, many devices hit 100+ dBβ€”equivalent to a loud concert. At that level, you have 15 minutes before damage begins.

Earbuds are especially risky because they sit closer to your eardrum than over-ear headphones.

Safe Listening Tips

πŸ“±

Use Your Phone's Volume Limiter

iOS and Android both have settings to cap maximum volume. Set it to 75% and you won't accidentally blast your ears.

πŸ”‡

Use Noise-Canceling Headphones

When outside noise is blocked, you don't need to turn up the volume to hear your music. ANC can actually protect your hearing.

πŸ’¬

The Conversation Test

If you can't hear someone talking at arm's length while wearing headphones, your volume is too high.

⏰

Set a Timer

After 60 minutes of listening, take a 10-minute break. Your ears need recovery time.

Related Articles

Safe Listening Guidelines β†’
WHO recommendations explained
Kids Hearing Protection β†’
Volume limits for children
The 85 dB Rule β†’
Your hearing safety threshold
Exposure Calculator β†’
Calculate your daily dose

Protect Your Hearing Everywhere

Safe headphone habits at home, hearing protection at concerts. Unplugs keep your ears safe without compromising sound quality.

Get Unplugs β†’