New Earplugs! - How To Reduce Noise Sensitivity in Autism (what are the benefits?)

[@maczajsci7080]

Same, never understood why people don't use earplugs - they often think tolerance of loud noises is an ability and intolerance is the problem - and then end up with hearing damage. I value my sensisitvity and enjoy the quiet sounds of the world and take care with the loud ones.

[@kackmalwieder]

because its not comfy to hear my own breath and voice from inside so loud

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

There's been a great deal of improvements in hearing protection over the last few decades. It used to be that you had to choose, something that blocked basically everything coming in through the ear or nothing. These days there are products like no-noise that can block just some of the frequencies with minimal impact on others and active noise canceling as well. The worst thing for hearing damage were those stupid earbuds that Apple insisted on shipping with the iPods, people would wear them so that everybody knew they had an iPod, but they wouldn't fit very well, which led to hearing damage as people cranked the volume to hear the music they were listening to.

[@dominic.h.3363]

Because no amount of due diligence with saniation will not make you develop an inner ear infection if you wear these all day, every day.

[@ANGELROB_YTC]

Because if you are normal putting these in your ears gives you more anxiety because you can hear your insides if you autistic you will have a different opinion because having them in makes the world quieter and takes you away from all those stressful sounds but if you are neurotypical those stressful sounds are actually the sounds of your internals and that noise when you lose your head like the air brushing against them

[@ANGELROB_YTC]

​​@@kackmalwiederthat's because he is probably autistic you go to understand the autistic people the stress of the noise of the outside world is more important and normal person just has the stress for the inside world and that is inside breathing I get scared of sounds especially load noises so I am in the middle here I understand what people want to wear these but in a normal situation I do have the breathing issue sometimes

[@Nami-dq3ox]

I vouch for these! I use the 27dB ones for sleep or if I'm going somewhere where I need to "mute the world" but still want to be discreet. My 16dB ones are attached to my keys at all time and I use them when doing groceries, in cafes, etc. My main problem with sound is usually not the volume (sometimes it is), it's that my metaphorical "sensory traffic controller" lets all sounds in. Using earplugs to reduce the background noise reduces the number of inputs coming in. I always found it weird that people go to bars and cafes to have conversations when it's so hard to listen in there- I had no idea that it wasn't like that for everyone!

[@deltastripes]

Oh, it’s really good for sleep? I’ve been sleeping with airpod pros, but these could be better

[@Nami-dq3ox]

@@deltastripes Yah, they don't fall out during the night, and they don't stick out so I can sleep on my side. I've never tried airpods, so I can't compare them. Before I got these, I was using the disposable squishy ones.

[@purity4all]

I work in a call center and I find the need to concentrate o. The sound coming through my headset absolutely exhausting because it competes with the sounds coming from all the other agents. My sweet thoughtful daughter bought them for me and I really hope they help.

[@artfullfox9]

Since buying these a few months ago they are in my pocket every day. An absolute life changer! When I start to feel myself being drained by noise around me I put them in and it's an instant relief. It's like putting a plug in the energy leak. I find your content and calm style of presentation very helpful, thank you.

[@jmaessen3531]

Oh yep, I've experienced this in a similar way. I love the framing you used of "a plug in the energy leak." Spot on 😊

[@oaschbeidl]

Spot on, I've had mine for a bit over a year and use them the same way as you. I've been so much more relaxed in noisier environments since. They're no magic pill or anything, I still get overwhelmed and I don't like that I can't wear them while eating because then I'll only hear my own chewing 100x amplified and it'll drown out any attempt at making conversation. But overall they're a fantastic quality of life upgrade for a reasonable price.

[@oaschbeidl]

Oh, and I got the loop experience pro and the quiet. The experience pro go everywhere with me, they don't dampen volume as much as the quiet and are perfect for me for group settings if I want to participate in the conversation. With the quiet, everything gets tuned out even more. For me they're too quiet for many situations but I use them for super loud environments or for sleeping in noisy places.

[@artfullfox9]

@@oaschbeidl I was just going to say about the loop engage which are supposed to make it easier to participate socially without talking to quietly as you can't hear how loudly you are talking. Do the experience ones make it easier to have conversations?

[@oaschbeidl]

@@artfullfox9 huh, those are new, I haven't seen them yet. Might try them out because it's one of my few gripes with the experience. I've basically had to relearn how loud to speak in certain situations with them in as I hear myself much louder but I've got it dialed in pretty well at this point. Still, if they improved on that aspect, it might be worth upgrading!

[@devorahallen4657]

I have been using Flare Calmers for about a month, and I really like them. I have the minis, because my ear canals are apparently tiny. This is why most earplugs don't work for me, but the Calmers seem to do the trick. I've been a little nervous all day, though, because when I got to work today, they were not in my bag. I figured they must be at home, but I haven't found them at home yet either. 😬 UPDATE: I found them! They were in my OTHER bag the whole time. Whew!

[@nicolassmith1278]

Hi pretty lady. How are you and your family doing today? And how is the weather over there???

[@batintheattic7293]

Some sort of tracker on the container you keep them in, perhaps? Spare pair? I also, like you, have the mouse's ears! Owl like in function. Mouse like in size.

[@miraid06]

I have purchased 2 pairs and have lost one each time. I'm trying to loops because I hope it will be more noticiable if one falls out.

[@mosuutjuh]

Pjew! So glad you found them back again!

[@divergentmind2023]

i love them i am sleeping much better since i got them last week

[@kkso3318]

I love these! I use Loop and Flare Audio ones for different purposes. I started using Loop about a year ago. I use them when sitting next to my husband on the couch watching a movie so I can't hear him chewing on food. I use them to help me pay attention to conversations with friends in a busy place. I use them in the car the calm the sound of all the car noises. There are way more reasons I use them. I have them on me at all times. I also use the Flare audio ones. It took me a while to really appreciate them but a few weeks ago I had a class in a university. I couldn't have the muffled feeling of my Loop earplugs, so I stick in the Flare Audio ones and this helped to settle the noises of people chattering, papers fluttering, electricity being... Electricity... And all the things calmed just enough that I could listen to the presenter. So Flare might be good to check out also and see what the different setting are that they help in versus the Loop. (I wear my Loop ones WAY more)

[@oaschbeidl]

I wondered about the Flare ones when I got my Loops a bit over a year ago. I've been very content with the Loops so I haven't looked further, but it's great to see a comparison from a fellow autistic person!

[@Tanryn]

I'm the reverse in that I wear my Flare more than my Loop. I was trying to describe the Flare ones to someone and could only come up with, "It's like taking a sawtooth wave and rounding all the points so it's more like a sine wave". It's an imperfect analogy but couldn't figure out how to phrase "It makes sound less pointy." But your comment, "settle the noises of people chattering, papers fluttering, electricity being... Electricity..." is just beautiful.

[@kkso3318]

@@oaschbeidl I am also ADHD, which I'm learning is auDHD. So on the hypervigilant, hyperactive side of me they also really help. ❤️ I'm just so happy to have found other ppl like me! This is relatively new for me and I'm feeling more seen and heard than I ever have. And I'm super excited to talk about things like this!

[@kkso3318]

@@Tanryn I also really like your analogy of rounding out sound. That feels really right too! ❤️

[@Tanryn]

@@kkso3318 I don't have a formal ADHD diagnosis (only ASD) but my ADHD tendencies are strong enough that I've recently been started on ADHD meds and it's really helping me focus.

[@markh9194]

I've been using loop experience for over a year now and have to say they are fantastic, they really dull all the noises that trigger me and I can still hear those around me to have a conversation. I took my kids to a trampoline play centre last week and it was like a wall of sound, screaming children, loud music , tannoy system... It was unbearable, the loops got me through it no problem. I use them in the supermarket too... A godsend. I highly recommend them 👍

[@happytofu5]

Can't wait to wear them in the supermarket! I normally use headphones, but they tend to fall out all the time.

[@amaxie]

Hi, I would like to know which one are you using because I know there are different types of "loops". Thank you.

[@CristinaV-tc8zc]

I WORK t a trampoline park, or I try. Do you think it would be possible to wear them there (experience or other loop) and still normally talk to colleagues and customers in persone or by phone?

[@markh9194]

@@amaxie sorry for the late reply, I'm not getting notifications gere for some reason or another. I use loop experience.... I cant fault them.

[@markh9194]

@@CristinaV-tc8zc definitely you will be able to have a conversation face to face, i doubt they would work on the phone but I've never tried it tbh. You could always take ine out and pop it back in very quickly if you needed to though,sounds like tgey would really help in your environment, i only wear them for an hour here and there, not tried them for a whole day or shift.

[@lynnehulse6552]

I just want to thank you for your videos! I am the mother of a 7 yo autistic son, high functioning, but still on the spectrum. Your videos have been so eye opening for me and I have learned so much about him and how his brain works from you. Thank you for the insights and please continue your incredible work, you are making a difference in people's lives!

[@beewilson5555]

Hello, I understand this comment is a bit old by now, but hope to inform you of something! I am an autistic adult. A majority of autistic people are uncomfortable being referred to by "functioning" labels. There are many resources on the internet (e.g. blog posts, articles, etc.) explaining why this is the case. From one person to another, I ask that you look into these sources. Cheers :)

[@NoxCattus]

Looking forward to this! I have auditory processing issues and have to work the drive thru at my job and it's not only so loud that I am getting hearing damage in the ear I use for the phone, but also it triggers migraines...

[@emilyeah]

Don't work there?

[@haggybaggymama]

I used to work in a call centre .... I resigned because of too many migraines and earaches. My health is way more important.

[@popkick8350]

@@emilyeah What an idiotic response to someone’s comment that says that he, she, or they are willing to make their environment more adaptable to them.

[@Tanryn]

I find Flare more comfortable under headphones like the headsets you have to wear for the drive thru, they don't reduce sound as much as Loop though.

[@batintheattic7293]

@@emilyeah Easier said than done, most of the time, and change can be excruciatingly difficult. Leigh - if you have an employment agency you can contact - see if you can lodge your specific requirements with them and ask them if they can help you with the transition. If you're not already fully dissociated - spend some time thinking about what your truly perfect working situation would be like and put a special watch out with the employment agency. And try to exclude factors which sneak in because of an urge to train yourself to fit in more. Is it the harshness of the sounds? Do you feel your ears 'flinch'? And so irregular and arbitrary. It must be seriously disconcerting. I'd give myself a week trying to do what you do. I don't think I could last any longer.

[@savagedoggo]

I use Calmers made by Flare, and they've greatly helped me feel less drained without blocking all the sound.

[@ANGELROB_YTC]

I'm always skeptical of those things do they actually work will they lose their shape And do you feel they stay in

[@magscooper1792]

I love mine!! I made a pair into earrings that dangle long when I have them out and give a cool chain effect when I have them in. That way I don’t worry about losing them when I’m out and about (not that they have ever fallen out, but it’s a thing I worry about.) Maybe I’ll have to play around with designs as a neck wrap like your old solution!

[@Cee13Jay]

Loop is awesome! I'm noise sensitive, but love going to rock music concerts (go figure). Before Loop, I used basic ear plugs at concerts (squeeze, roll and insert) but the music was muffled. Loop is a game changer - I can stand close to the stage and hear the music perfectly without it sounding muffled.

[@kristinludlowUX]

Same! I'm very noise sensitive particularly with multiple voices talking, bars, crowded places. I don't like to be in crowds. But I can go to a punk rock show in the front row pit with crazy people flying all around...but only for so long.

[@myzhari875]

Loops are a total game changer for sure. I have a pair of Experience Pro and Engage Pro, but I let my partner use the Engage as I can only use one at once. Pro allows me to get the same effect as quite by slipping the mutes on, which is worth the little extra. Experience with or without muted are perfect in most situations, but in the office when I need to regularly communicate with coworkers, the engage take the edge off but I can hear people speaking to me nearby more clearly, and my own voice sounds less weird. I'm currently working from home so I'm pretty much using experience 100% of the time. Can even wear them when driving and still feel safe. I can even have windows open in the car without pain which iseemed crazy before I got my loops.

[@jung-ahchoi2719]

Oh my gosh this is a perfect solution! I'm an autistic psychologist in training and was wondering how I can look like I'm being present with others without wearing my noise canceling headphones over my ears. Absolutely genius!

[@user-yv6xw7ns3o]

Wow, I love the timing on this one. Fellow drum set and other percussionist here, currently out on the beach wearing ear protection so that I can actually hear the waves when I got the reminder notification that you just posted this video!😂. Very similar growing up experiences at loud concerts and around drum set lessons and learned the same strategy that somehow nobody else wanted to do of actually being able to hear and avoid pain and disruption anxiety by blocking out all the extra decibels. Very glad to see someone else talking about this totally undervalued and absolutely exciting simple technique!

[@ShawnHansford-bo4uw]

Tried my Engage plus for first time today. Wow what a different experience in a Restaurant.

[@DjastinFaiht]

I am using loop each night. Best earplugs I’ve ever tried and that’s the first thing I pack on a trip. There is one downside: the little keyring loop on the casing is prone to rip off. To not lose them I can recommend using some hardy twine and replace that silicone keyring loop in time before you lose them. It’s really easy and allows you also to choose the length for the keyring loop. Again. I love my loops. During the day I usually wear Flare audio ear pieces but don’t go any nights without my loops anymore. Glad they work for you, too

[@ruthhenderson9205]

Thank you for this video! I have extreme sound sensitivity and with tiny ears have always struggled with most earplugs popping out or just being really hugely uncomfortable. I have just used your code to by some loops. Having heard your testimony and read the many positive reviews I am really excited to receive them! They could be absolutely life changing for me.. I remember the moment I ‘discovered’ coloured lenses in glasses could help with my vision/light sensitivity and that it’s ‘ok’ to wear them during the day, or inside. I now have glasses with pink, yellow, blue, violet, grey and black lenses and they’ve been transformative (as well as fun!) I feel Loops may be the same. 🎉

[@crweirdo8961]

I'm still trying to sort-out/understand my light sensitivity issues, are there any specific resources that helped you?

[@ruthhenderson9205]

@@crweirdo8961 Hi. I have not yet found any specific science-backed resource to share, although sure they must be out there. My optician has never really been helpful for these issues, they just want me in their regular lenses which seem to weaken my eyes rather than strengthening them. So for me nothing high tech….apart from buying better brands as time went on, spending more money over the years on sunglasses as I realised they really helped. I just experimented with different coloured lenses and found the above colours work for me and go some way to reducing visual strain. What colour lens which can help to reduce strain is probably going to be different for everyone. I always carry a pair of pink and grey ones out with me, and I take several pairs if I go on holiday. I never drive without some kind of coloured glasses, they really help cut down glare and bouncing light. The other thing I recommend although sure you know is to use really good black-out blinds/heavy curtains/or a combination of roller blinds, Venetian blinds plus curtains at home so you have options of how much light you let in. And if travelling take a really comfortable eye mask with you (which also helps if you don’t want to be disturbed at all on a plane and together with ear plugs cuts down stimulation fatigue.) I’m crossing fingers for you!

[@crweirdo8961]

@@ruthhenderson9205 I have found that a well folded banana makes for a much better blindfold/eye-mask than many of the cheaper options out there, it's easier on my ears, simple to make it a perfect fit, and has other uses if I ever need one for anything else, so I typically always have 1 or 2 on me already whenever I go anywhere; but the rest of your advice is very helpful! Thank you!

[@starshine_lue5823]

I love loop earplugs. I got the engage ones late last year and now i cant live without them. They are great if you still want to hear whats going on well but also dont want it to be so loud. 10/10 would definitely recommend

[@brentmakes]

I have 3 pairs of these: the Experience Pro buds are very customizable and such a huge help. I take the silencer plug off for movie theaters and put them in for walking around the city or on public transport.

[@paulagospel2624]

I’m on the edge of my seat for this content

[@NoiseDay]

I do NOT personally recommend the Vibes concert ear plugs. I am not particularly sensitive to noise (for an autistic person), but I gave them a try when I learned I was autistic hoping they would make my job more bearable (public library- everything is perfectly quiet, which makes one person talking feel worse than a bustling crowd which was giving me anxiety). What I didn't like about them was that the plastic bits suck out so I couldn't sleep with them in while on my side. What particularly bothered me, which I'm curious about with other earplugs of this type, is the hearing my own bodily functions. Without ear plugs, I don't notice my own breathing or heart beat. With ear plugs, my breathing can be deafening or at least distracting. Defeats the purpose of noise cancellation. I do not want to hear the sound of flesh balloons inflating.

[@Cizziphant]

I've never used Vibes but have used almost all kinds of earplugs. Hearing my own internal stuff doesn't really bother me but I do notice it the most with earplugs that block the most exterior sound. You might like Eargasm slides on their more open setting bc that noise reduction is only like 15db. I use those for when I'm playing in orchestra rehearsals and need to take the edge off the loudness of brass instruments pointed at my ear, but I still need to hear more than just myself playing- if I use higher dB-blocking plugs I can only hear myself and all my breathing and swallowing etc. Everybody's ears are different too, so sometimes I think you just have to find the right brand that fits in your ear a certain way, too. I tried the Flare calmers and they just eliminated the sort of white noise in the air and made all my rage-inducting misophonic sounds louder :( but a lot of people love them. I basically want quiet white-noise earplugs that also somehow eliminate feeling bass frequencies if someone can invent those but that's another monologue.

[@sushi926]

With Quiet I do hear my breathing more. Still prefer it to noise outside. I mean, it's nowhere as loud as a car passing by and it feels much better because it's a noise I control. But I do wonder if Experience has less of that effect.

[@angelicalopez2722]

I use Flare Calmers because they don’t give me the muffled feeling or amplify my bodies noises. The best way I can describe them is they seem to flatten out all the noises around me, which helps me better perceive noises directed towards me ie: people talking to me, something I’m watching, while dampening any noise that tries to go out of a certain range like crying/loud children and physically farther off noises that would otherwise distract me. Perhaps that dampening feeling may help with the shock you seem to feel when certain noises interrupt the otherwise quite atmosphere of the library.

[@jasongutekunst]

Glad you used that metaphor of being 'punched in the face' by loud, especially sudden & loud noises... b/c that's exactly what it feels like! In 2019, about a year before I began to watch Paul's videos and put 2 and 2 together - I worked as a server in a small, but loud restaurant... The worst were the cooks who insisted on shouting at the top of their lungs "SERVER!!!" Worse yet, they would even do this with me standing three feet in front of them, 'side to', with a hot plate in each hand (so I couldn't cover my ears); further, the owners refused to adapt. If I knew then what I know now... suffice to say, earbuds are a Godsend and I keep mine nearby at all times! Cheers Paul ❤

[@cubinican1218]

These are a LIFE saver for me. I work in NYC and the noise is constant. I never went out anywhere. These earplugs changed all that!

[@daminox]

I was only recently diagnosed (i'm 35 btw) and any time we had a fire drill at work (or school before that) I was always the only person who would cover their ears when walking past the screeching fire alarm. I was always like "You all don't find that noise painful?!" Now I know...

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

That's bad, I remember being able to barely go into the book store at college because the detector they were using to pick up on the security tags was so very, very noisy. Seemingly nobody else noticed it.

[@jacksonrelaxin3425]

They don’t find it painful yet. Maybe it won’t get as bad, but I still can’t understand how people just casually go about their business when an alarm goes off. They’re literally designed to, well, alarm people.

[@RubenKelevra]

Actually it's painful for everyone, but most people have just hearing damage from enduring loud sounds all their live without hearing protection as some kind of self inflicted damage to be "cool" or something.

[@LarsBerntropBos]

Great subject! Really makes sense in retrospect. They should tell audio sensitive people when educating them about their condition about this option! I'll be trying a few different kinds so I'll have options for different situations. Thank you Paul!!!!

[@326159487d]

Yess!! Loops earplugs are kind of selling themselves when someone experience the reducing of sound. I looove them, use them for almost a year now, and I alllways immediately recommend this Loops earplugs to everyone who's been asking about it. Thank you for reaching out to Loop and to bring this item in the spotlight to the masses 👍

[@susan_e]

I love my Quiet and Engage Plus earplugs by Loop! They help me feel comforted/safe in loud environments and greatly help with my misophonia. Because they are so comfortable to wear, I sometimes forget they're in my ears. Thank you for highlighting this great product. I'm enjoying your channel very much.

[@ArjenEeken]

Thank you! I purchased the Quiet and Engage Plus earplugs immediately after watching your video.

[@Barracuda-r7s]

This is a big deal and annoyance with working in an environment like retail, for example music ( non- preferred) played in a loop while paging goes on the P.A. system sometimes you are talking with a customer ... so I think you touched on one of my issues I deal with every day at work. Thank you for being so thoughtful and through. I already ordered a pair of loops.

[@dieferman]

As usual, great content. Thanks for sharing! I relate to your story. Since I auto diagnose at 47, while my 5 year old son was clinically diagnose as being in the spectrum, I realized why I loved wearing earplugs when work required it... I bought myself a pair of Softbox ones, and a pair of Alpine ones for my son and we love wearing them now at noisy places...

[@ameelammie]

In the U.S. we just say cotton balls. Wool would just be from a sheep. Unless it is steel wool. Which can be used to clean cookiing pans. English can be crazy.

[@xiphocostal]

In Australia we say "cotton wool" ( a bit of an oxymoron, like steel wool) to refer to the minimally processed cotton bud, minus the scratchy bits. "Cotton " is used to refer to the processed product. (Thread/string or fabric) .If someone said "I plug my ears with cotton" my first thought would be "How are you going to get that string out?"🙂 Edited to add Australian cotton buds= US Q tips. Don't start me on "fanny packs"🤣

[@chloe2264]

@@xiphocostal Q Tips is a brand name, so I just call those cotton swabs instead. Lol Fanny packs

[@timmy334]

I just ordered a pair of the Engage Plus model. Thanks for the discount code!

[@emilynielsen6704]

I got a pair of the Calmer brand earplugs. I was surprised how much longer my stamina lasted if I just wore them all the time, even when I am home, alone, by myself. I can’t explain why, I just know that it makes a huge difference. Just try it!

[@jgirluwant]

I’ve had these for a couple of years and they are lifechanging. No crinkling sounds like other earplugs

[@oyahfftlisawsome]

I'm always wearing my earbuds at work almost all the time. I'm not always listening to something, but there always in my ears in most of the areas I work

[@o0OMouseO0o]

There is also the macho thing of not wearing PPE in industrial or hazardous noise environments which sometimes spills into other situations. Bizarrely enough there is peer pressure to not wear hearing protection which I have encountered many times. On the flip side I was diagnosed with tinnitus at about 18 which was about 30 years ago and have taken good care of my hearing ever since that consultation with a hearing specialist, even working in heavy industry for a few year and as a result have notably better hearing than those that didn't take care of theirs. I also commute by motorcycle where the noise of wind on the crash helmet is above the threshold for permanent damage so always wear ear plugs on the highway and usually always carry a pair in my pocket. Oddly I don't wear them much in public even though they bring some relief, especially supermarkets.

[@haggybaggymama]

I have 3 pairs of these Loop earplugs. They're brilliant. I also got the Loop Mute Set ... They add an extra 5 decibels of silence. Best decision I made for my auditory sensitivities.

[@deltastripes]

What about sleeping with them?

[@manyBlessings2all]

Yes yes yes to 1,2&3!! At uni (before I dropped out) trying to keep up with housemates social tendency to go to night clubs student nights, disliked the feeling of the beat from the floor going thro my whole body, and those orange squishy earplugs helped a lot - as you say, could hear better etc! Still have trouble distinguishing lyrics in songs, & how intrusive the sound of traffic can be.. Earmuffs also help me a lot, comforting 😊

[@safyafarooq2878]

Yea, I wear my handy on me all the time. I made a little bag that I wear on my neck. That was previously a problem, because I never could find my handy. So now it's hanging on me. And I also wear headsets all the time. Even if I don't listen anything. Sometimes I listen something, sometimes not. I noticed how nice it is that the outside noises are less stressy, when I block them a little. That was a natural found coping machanism. I can totally relate what you you are saying. Greatings from Safya. Privet to your wife. When you will become Father, Paul? 😉 That will be a total new life experience. If you like, you can share with us ur experience and challanges to be an autistic Father.

[@paularominagimenez1496]

First time I used them I started to cry out of happiness. I couldn't beleave how the world sounded or that it actually coul be not painful to actually have a hearing sense.

[@G-3-A-R-Z]

loop rocks, changed my life.

[@user-cx6tw5ck2h]

I have a moderate age-related hearing loss and my usual hearing is like wearing earplugs. When I need to hear a conversation I put in my hearing aids and I can hear normally and when I need to avoid auditory stimulation I take them out. Kind of the opposite of people with normal hearing. In a strange way, as an Aspie with auditory sensory issues, I feel like my hearing loss has been a blessing.

[@chloe2264]

My Grandmother used to do this too! Take out her hearing aids to block out the world, lol. And would complain about too much background noise and not being able to hear conversation or lyrics properly with them in.

[@sherryBigDogLover]

Wow! Finding your channel might be a game-changer for my son! He's 24, works, drives, has his own car, tried an apartment for 4 months, but he doesn't have very good communication skills, and he definitely doesn't socialize well. I have been at a loss for how to help him, so I am hoping to learn from you what I can do differently and what he can learn to do differently. The earplugs thing may be a godsend! Thank you!!! It was a real "Duh" moment for me 😢

[@alisonduffy6206]

Hi everyone, I tried Serenity Choice/Sleep earplugs which didn't work for me. An audiologist took moulds of my ears and I got a silicone pair which are a personal fit. They mute the ambient noise by about 50% and have saved my sanity. I can now stay in shops for more than 2 minutes, and take them everywhere! Thanks Paul, I'm learning so much from your videos.

[@stillnotstill]

Oh cool I'm glad you're making a video on this! My loop earplugs... I really wanted to like them, but sizing wise I tried every size and one of my ears would either have them not blocking off the noise enough, or falling out of my ear. I think I'm just a weird size. However, if it hadn't been for that I would have used them constantly. They felt nice in my ear texture wise compared to a foam ear plug.

[@WindspielArt]

Of didn't finished watching but cotton wool isn't called that here but it's close to the term we use for cotton in general because it's called Baumwolle in German literally translates to treewool. we have a word for everything fluffy made of fibers like cotton wool or the stuffing for plushies - we call that "Watte" (cotton candy is Zuckerwatte in German - Zucker is sugar and it looks like Watte)

[@chrispybacon3]

Thanks Paul! That's the extra push I needed to make my purchase - I chose the Engage Plus so I can still engage in conversation when I'm out & about 🤗

[@NoiseDay]

I'm curious about hearing voices more clearly. Lately I've been getting irritated with my family members because I'm always asking them to repeat what they say and then they get annoyed with me, to the point where I've told them dismissively to treat me like I'm deaf when we're shopping. I'm certain I'm not actually experience hearing loss, because I think I hear just fine and sometimes hear things others don't. Plus I can overreact to certain noises. My theory is that this is a focusing issue or processing issue. Something about people speaking to me amidst certain environmental noises makes it hard to understand them. It doesn't help that everyone in my family (including me) is bad at enunciating (saying the consonants clearly). We speak lazy. We don't pronounce the T in mountain or at the end of "don't." My sister and I will now sometimes turn the car radio off when we're having a particularly engaging conversation because I can't concentrate with two noises going on at the same time. I'm worried that any headphones I use to drown out irritating noises will also drown out important noises, like people talking to me.

[@stillnotstill]

Oh my goodness, I definitely relate to not having problems hearing volume, but having problems processing words. When people I talk to you on the phone are on a headset or there's background noise, they can be as loud as they want to, but I'm not going to understand the actual words. It's so annoying too because you say something like I can't hear you clearly, and they just think they need to be louder, and it's like yeah no that's not working!

[@MoeMcIntyre]

This is absolutely a thing! You might want to look up auditory processing disorder; there's definitely a link between it and ASD & ADHD, though I don't think there's much formal study on that. You're correct in that it's because of how the brain processes sounds.

[@maudline]

I have the same so you’re not alone. Partly why I haven’t invested in any ear plugs besides the regular foam ones

[@chloe2264]

The Loop Engage ones are for minimizing background noise, but hearing conversation and helping with focus (was just looking through the website and bought a pair!). Sounds like those are the type of earplug you could use.

[@ChromeSkeletons]

I started wearing these whenever I go to the grocery store and I find that I'm significantly less drained after shopping, literally life changing!

[@timkoinzan7824]

So Glad you made this Video. I have been using Loop earplugs for about a year and I really like them. I recently purchased some calmer earplugs from flare and they really don't do anything for me and was disappointed that i spent the $30 on them. So I keep using the Loops and they are great for Grocery Shopping and similar environments!

[@Cizziphant]

same on the Calmer earplugs, they were sorta too small in my ear-holes and only cut out non-annoying sounds and just increased misophonia lol :(

[@TheKjoy85]

I haven't tried Loop, but I use Decibullz custom molded attenuation filters and a pair of their regular earplugs just about every time I leave the house. They go in when I get in the car and usually stay in until I'm in a lower sensory environment. Those safe places are usually home and the exam rooms at the doctor's office. Mine have lanyards so that they can hang around my neck between uses. I use the regular earplugs when I go to the pool to swim because it is a noisier place and they keep my ears dry, too. The squishy type of earplug hurts my ears when I wear them.

[@corinaalvarezloeblich6986]

I was a little embarrassed just thinking about wearing earplugs (for years) and I hated the sensation, they were so uncomfortable and huge, and the pressure inside my ears was sometimes worse than the actual noice, making the whole situation a lot more overwhelming. These are fantastic, I just got them after many negotiations with myself. Also got a ticket to a concert AND actually looking forward to go. Thank you, Paul!

[@logosrhemalego]

I just learned I have CAPD and the beneficial aspect of using a good pair of ear plugs. While I am waiting on Loop to arrive, I have been using Bose headphones and oh my goodness I am not angry at my kids, I am not as tired and yes the whole point of limiting the noise/sound round me is being able to REGULATE MY ENERGY!! I’m so grateful that I have gotten to know and experience this!

[@Tanryn]

I have both Loop and Flare earbuds. I find that Loop reduces sound more and are really useful for dropping the overall amount of all sound whereas the Flare makes the sound less pointy. I'm not sure if those words make sense. It's like a cleaner, less irritating, sound without reducing the volume. I also find the Flare more comfortable, which is just personal preference, so I wear them every day for work, sleep, under headphones when gaming etc. Whereas the Loop ones are really handy when going into environments like concerts where it's very loud and you need to generally reduce the level of sound.

[@kerryrobertson5672]

Funny, Had just ordered two new types of hearing protection and they got lost in transit and had to request refund today. I knew no one personally who had tried Loops so feel confident to listen to your recommendation. Just ordered 2 types, the Quiet and Engage Plus. I have been using the 3M Green squishee kind for years, worn in commerical settings but they block too much during the day. Since having two virus my ears have gotten extremely more sensitive so need something during the day. Thank you!! I don't like new things I'm not sure of or change yet will try if I trust the recommender. Thanks Paul! Discount is nice!!

[@nicolassmith1278]

Hi pretty lady. How are you and your family doing today? And how is the weather over there???

[@christinecrum7934]

I just wanted to say that your Facebook group is everything. Thank you for everything.

[@emilienorman-fortin]

I love my Loops! I have been using the Experience ones to read or study, and just bought the Quiet ones for sleep. I also wear the Flare audio calmer all day long. It’s been very helpful.

[@Perseverant-Soul]

How you feel makes so much sense to me, & deeply resonates with me. Thank you so much for really expressing and sharing your story of your experiences. Gives me hope. I have always struggled with noise overload than anyone I've personally known and they've always called me sensitive..."too sensitive" for that reason and definitely not just. (and I understand the using earbuds not just for music to calm but even when they're off. And to not engage when not up to it in the least. It takes the pressure off. Mhm.) A friend of a family member, actually tried to tell me to just...Ignore sounds of these two women in a restaurant drinking... Yes...the loud drunk screeches some of these women do. I could not "ignore them". And " just focus on ____" he even threw at me that "they're just having fun. And you're being very rude. You really need to learn how to tune things out and focus on the person talking to you". Fast forward to years down the road and have come to realize the reasons noise is yes... Painful. Among learning more about myself, mhm. My heart went out to you when you described that with the feedback from microphones etc. I am happy you've found something to really help you. I just came from a video comparing these exact earplugs with one called Calmer by Flare and if you ever give those a try I would absolutely LOVE to hear how you feel about them. I am on the fence which to get or at least first. I used to have earplugs meant for concerts but they came unclipped from my purse so I lost them and miss them. Human civilization is way too loud and barely tolerable without them... I very much relate and appreciate you sharing about how the Quiet by Loop helped you be able to be able to engage more when comfortable should you now choose to, now your choice. I wish you well and massively appreciate your videos and channel. It feels like I have a sort of friend on this path of discovering more about my needs and why they are. Thank you.

[@Perseverant-Soul]

And yes.. I have been watching your channel before this video because I relate more than I am saying.. Still learning. But your channel is helping me. Thank you.

[@Agnes4867]

Hello Paul, since a couple of days I'm following you. I'm on the waiting list for more tests for autism and adhd. Hopefully they will call me soon. This tip you're giving here is such a good tip! Thank you so much for sharing this. I've ordered today the earplugs and get them this wednesday. Hopefully they will help me!

[@pikachufan3588]

You are now the second person to enthusiastically tell me about these. So I used your link after taking their survey and matched with the "experience plus" ones. So we'll see how it goes but either way thanks for the discount!

[@MichelleKiwiGirlCrawfordvocals]

Thanks for your honest and enthusiast review, I bought some Quiet Loop earplugs earlier this year and they reduce outside noise which helps me sleep. I know how draining loud environments can be especially at work when I need to concentrate and I'm distracted by constant chatter. I invested in some headphones last year which reduce the office noise to a more bearable level.

[@num5949]

this happens to me at school, i end up concentrated on what other people are saying and all the noises especially at the end of the day and it leaves me unable to concentrate

[@Josukegaming]

Hi, I am not diagnosed with Autism, but have recently been really struggling with noise sensitivity, to the point of it making me miserable and angry and exhausted. I crave mindfulness and not blocking out the world around me, but especially being in public transport, or near loud cars or people having a loud party near my house drives me insane. I've always been sensitive to noise in the past, but i think its time to accept I have a serious noise sensitivity and either go to therapy to try and work out why, and/or get some earbuds like these to help me not want to go ballistic when in a loud environment

[@mei5050]

Just ordered a couple of pairs for different situations, thanks for the discount code! Up until now I’ve been using huge heavy ear defenders which take up too much space in my bag, or squishy ear plugs which make my ears hurt. Hopefully these will be better and more discreet 🤞

[@515aleon]

Cotton wool maybe is cotton balls in the US. Excellent video---still have hyperacusis in my 70s! (A different problem than a lot of people my age have!)

[@nickmontanaro9638]

I used to roll up tissue paper and stuff them in my ears. I even got flesh colored tissues for this because ear buds would always fall out. I'm buying those earplugs today. Earplugs and sunglasses and I'm a different person. Anxiety, stress reduced dramatically. I know now that this along with all of my other symptoms confirms what I have suspexted for many years, I have high functioning autism and that's ok. I'm going to find a group Andy meet others in the NY/NJ area. Thank you.

[@nutmegriot209]

your lucky/smart you learned to plug your ears at a young age. having tinnitus with autism is hellish, especially when theres flare ups. its making headphone shopping difficult too. i want noise cancelling so bad, but terrified they’ll amplify my tinnitus

[@ElsaFluss]

My kids and I wear our Loops to the grocery store, to ball games, to the museum, etc. They're life savers.

[@hlasher1]

I was listening to this video, and looked over to discover EIGHT pairs of Earsoft Yellow Neons on my desk. :) Right with you! I haven't tried Loop though, thanks for the recommendation. I have hyperacusis, and was nodding in identification with the painful sounds you mentioned. I use my earplugs every day, too, and have been for the past 4 decades. Similar to you, I started using them for professional hearing protection while working with loud power tools in my studio, then realized how useful they were for many other applications.

[@MehOnCommenting]

Thank you!!! I've been wearing plugs to bars/clubs/concerts/festivals since I was a teenager, and always thought it bizarre that I always seemed to be the only one doing so (except for people working in those venues). I've always relied on disposable foam plugs, which I find difficult to put in, and carrying them around just loose in my pocket feels ick. These look awesome can't wait to try them! Cotton wool = cotton balls in the US, always fun to learn what other people call things!

[@Thermoelectric7]

Same experience here. Work in a refrigerated warehouse with lots of ambient noise from all the machinery. Got a pair of Loop Enhance (I think that's the name) to muffle out the ambient noise while still being able to hear colleagues etc. Also got the quiet for when I'm on the motorbike and sleeping. As others have said, the silicone loop on the carry case can break if it's on a key ring and gets snagged. Apart from that they're great. Only downside I have is they did start to irritate my ears after a few 12 hour shifts but that seems to have subsided.

[@BeautifulFear]

This is the first time EVER I bought something recommended by a youtuber. Had never heard about Loop before, thanks for the info Paul! ❤ Loop will help me a lot!

[@willrobertson7778]

I tend to use in-ear earphones then professional hearing defenders on top of those. The hearing defenders are available in 3 different grades depending on the intensity of noise that they protect against (sometimes the higher grade ones aren't stocked and have to be ordered). They keep out the noise then the in-ear earphones play music to drown out any noise that gets through.

[@Androgynary]

I’ve been thinking about getting Loop earplugs for a bit now, so this is helpful in making my final decision

[@BrainyBrunetteBarbie]

I love my loops and wear them so much! I call it “bubble time”, and it’s glorious.

[@MrArmybiker]

Sound like a good alternative to my noise cancelling Headphones. I also do not listen to music every time so i just keep them in to reduce the noise a bit. Sometimes i am really on the edge so even listen to music can be almost to much, so this could be a really good option for me. And they also need no charging and do not have issues with loading or connection like my headphones. They always have really nasty interferences when i need them the most like walking through the city or waiting on the large bus stations where it is really loud. Thank you for sharing Paul.

[@BowieGuitarist]

If you want them to be around your neck there is something called the loop link go look on their website

[@kalt1976]

I have Loops as well and I do use them, but only if I am in very noisy places, because I absolutely hate the occlusion they cause. I hate hearing my own voice and chewing and swallowing sounds in my head- and they also cause me to have to strain to hear what people are saying. So for a very noisy environment I would absolutely recommend them, but if the environment is less noisy, ei at home or in an office or the park, I would recommend Flare Calmer. They don't give that muffled distortion that Loops do, as they only smooth the sound, without blocking it.

[@milddiffuse]

What Loop models have you used?

[@kalt1976]

@@milddiffuse I have Engage and Quiet. And then I have Flares Calmer. And Bose QC45

[@koalamama2]

I like how they're like ear buds! I've tried ear plugs but don't like the way they feel or even look, so I always wear my ear buds instead. That's okay during the day but not super convenient, and not comfortable for sleeping (doesn't stop me though). Thank you for this recommendation.

[@rubpp]

I bought a pair of loop experience and it is one of the best puschases i have ever made. I use them for sleeping, walking in the street, going on public transport, in the car, for loud parties, they are amazing.

[@nicholawright9956]

Thanks for the info, I've been thinking about investing in a pair of earplugs for a while so I just ordered a pair of the Loop Engage buds with your discount code (thanks!) I've been having more problems with sensory overload than usual recently but I don't like muting or muffling sound as it leaves me feeling isolated and vulnerable. I'm hoping the noise reduction from this type will be enough for my needs 🙂

[@sugarbabyangel479]

Great video!!! I use earplugs a lot. Now I want to try them in many other situations as you described. I admire you so much. You always seem about 5 steps ahead of me in learning about life. Thank you for sharing your expertise.

[@WillowTree-ux5qy]

I just bought the Loop engage a few days ago. I find they are good for general loud background noise and sudden noises. I found my Flare audio calmers are good for blocking high pitched noises like the high frequency parts of the buzz of electronics like the fridge or the bus engines

[@DanielSRosehill]

They're a great product. Been dealing with noise sensitivity my whole life. I find I'm just calmer overall when I use them. (Don't have autism but appreciate so much that people on the spectrum have put sensory sensitivity on the mental health agenda!)

[@nancylee8061]

Thank you.I have been considering buying Loop since last year. I will order a pair today.

[@rachelscottart6908]

Good timing! I need something to wear to cope with situations that make me stressed (work, shopping, noisy neighbours, life) and was looking at this brand. Thanks so much for the recommendation and discount code!

[@chloe2264]

You sold me. Just bought a pair. I wear my Apple earbuds at home a lot whether I’m listening to something or not and I find I can regulate better to parent, but they hurt if worn for many hours so I try to remember to take them out for periods of time.

[@AutisticAwakeActivist]

I also had the same problem with sore ears in the military after wearing the yellow spongy plugs we use on the shooting range.

[@nicolassmith1278]

Hi pretty lady. How are you and your family doing today? And how is the weather over there???

[@MarkieMark229]

I recently discovered these also. They're fantastic for sleep. I'm having the best sleep of my life!

[@elenamaximova1497]

Cotton wool has different names in the languages I use. In Russian, there's a special word for cotton wool (вата, pronounced: vattah). In German - Baumwolle ("tree wool"), and in Hebrew, it's called tsemer gefen צמר גפן. Which is obviously taken from English, but sounds still more weird, because while tsemer is wool, gefen is, you won't guess it, grapevine (actually, any kind of wine, but usually it means grapevine).

[@chloe2264]

In Canada, we say cotton balls. My grandfather used to use this when going out in the winter to save the cold air from going in his ears and giving him an earache, but would forget about them and wear them more than intended, lol.

[@Anne-cs3bx]

I got loops a few months ago and always wear them to the grocery store, movie theaters, cafes and restaurants!

[@Davidhjrick]

It’s so great to seek him happy with a reoccurring smile. x

[@SD-ko4tz]

My autistic daughter bought a pair laat year for her work aa a cabinetmaker. And got an extra pair for social situations. She is also super enthousiastic about them

[@realtracosplay]

Loop is fantastic. I also have the quiets and I was able to go dancing and it was like the music was in a separate room. Thinking of getting a set of experience for a small concert next month.

[@christinanantz]

Bought these a few months ago. Love them.

[@nicolassmith1278]

Hi pretty lady. How are you and your family doing today? And how is the weather over there???

[@Haze1434]

Funnily enough, I'm autistic level 1 (formally Asperger's), and I keep a pair of Loop Earplugs on my keyring. I'm OK in general day-to-day situations, but if I go to a loud party or busy town centre, they are invaluable. They stop me getting to that 'panicked state' after a while. Would recommend keeping a pair on you. They come with a little case, so I simply keep them on my keyring in my pocket at all times.

[@jessinthegarden]

I am so glad I saw this. Very excited to try these. I can’t wait to see the impact they have. Thank you!

[@JudyReadsCards]

I said to myself, yet again, just today that I must get some earplugs. Done! Thank you, Paul, for this immaculately timed push... and for the discount, which I must admit did help. 😉

[@SadbhW]

I have Flare Calmer and can't say they've made a difference, you've convinced me to try these though!

[@stefansauvageonwhat-a-twis1369]

Ive had mine for a few months now, its just amazing mine can switch from transparent listening like no earphones and a noise cancellation mode

[@zakzwijn8410]

I had custom sleep earplugs made for me. 90 euros, not that expensive, and they last several years. Very comfortable to wear, good soundproofing. I also have a pair of standard earplugs when I visit an occasional party. Not going to get tinnitus.