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The Wirecutter Show Episode 11: Life Is Too Loud

October 23, 2024

A pair of blue headphones in a blue bubble on a light blue background.

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More than 100 million Americans are exposed to unhealthy levels of noise daily. This episode we discuss how to determine if you’re at risk of hearing loss and what you can do about it.

Lauren Dragan, Wirecutter’s longtime senior writer covering headphones and audio equipment, walks us through the health issues linked to noise pollution, how to find out if you’re exposed to too much noise, and specific ways to reduce sounds at home, while commuting, or in noisier situations (like concerts or parties).

Lauren shares her favorite headphones, from noise-canceling headphones to sleep headphones. And she recommends specific ear muffs and ear plugs for adults, kids, and babies. Lauren also reveals how to use various frequencies of noise—like brown or pink noise—to block out irritating sounds that may be bothering you.

Table of Contents

Products we recommend

Additional reading

The Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Whether you prefer over-ear or in-ear noise-cancelling headphones, we have recommendations to help bring peace to your next trip.
The Best Sleep Headphones

After years of testing sleep headphones that proved to be a nightmare, we’ve found two pairs that help us sleep like a baby.
The Best Earplugs for Concerts

Although custom earplugs are best for pro musicians and frequent concert-goers, we like the Loop Experience 2 earplugs for the occasional concert.
The Best Kids Headphones

Whether you need kids headphones for entertainment, school, or travel, we have recommendations—and they all limit the maximum volume to protect young ears.
The Best Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

The Soundcore Space A40 true wireless earbuds perform so well it’s hard to believe they’re so affordable.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Kids Is a Growing Problem. Here’s How to Protect Little Ears.

Noise-induced hearing loss is a growing problem for kids. It’s preventable, but you need to understand what causes it and take early preventive measures.

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