Ensure you’re protecting your hearing by utilizing appropriate protection around these common household items.
We tend to associate hearing loss with loud concerts, noisy construction sites, or industrial environments. However, harmful sounds can come from the everyday household items we use without thinking twice. Prolonged exposure to the sounds these items produce can have an impact on your hearing health over time.
Our homes are filled with tools and appliances designed to make life easier, but many of these devices produce noise levels that can reach the threshold for potential hearing damage. Noise is measured in decibels (dB), and sounds above 85 dB are generally considered harmful if you’re exposed for extended periods. The louder the sound, the shorter the exposure time required to potentially cause damage.
Let’s take a look at some common household items that may be above these thresholds so you can ensure you’re taking precautions when it comes to your hearing health. As always, if you have any questions, talk with your audiologist.
Hair Dryers
One of the most surprising offenders is the hair dryer. A typical hair dryer can generate noise levels between 80 to 90 dB, which is comparable to city traffic or a lawnmower. While you may only use a hair dryer for a few minutes at a time, if you’re frequently using it on a high setting and holding it close to your ears, the noise exposure can accumulate.
To minimize the risk, try using your hair dryer on a lower setting or use earplugs if you’re frequently styling your hair for extended periods. Another option is to invest in a quieter model specifically designed to produce less noise.
Lawn Mowers and Leaf Blowers
Outdoor maintenance equipment such as lawn mowers and leaf blowers are among the loudest devices most people own. Lawn mowers typically produce sounds in the range of 85 to 100 dB, while leaf blowers can exceed 105 dB. The louder the equipment, the more immediate the risk to your hearing. Given that mowing or clearing leaves can take upwards of 30 minutes to an hour, it’s wise to invest and use high-quality ear muffs or ear plugs to dampen the sound.
Blenders and Food Processors
Blenders and food processors are common kitchen appliances that can also be harmful to your hearing, especially when used regularly. These devices typically produce noise levels between 80 and 90 dB, which falls within the range of potential hearing damage if used frequently or for long durations.
While a smoothie or a batch of soup may not take long to prepare, if you use these often and for long periods, it can add up. Consider investing in quieter models designed to reduce noise.
Vacuum Cleaners
Vacuum cleaners are another surprising source of household noise. The average vacuum operates at around 70 to 85 dB. While that may seem lower compared to some other household items, it’s still within the range that can cause hearing issues if you’re vacuuming for extended periods, especially in echo-prone environments like hard-floored rooms.
To protect your hearing, try to minimize your vacuuming time, or choose quieter models that operate at lower decibel levels. Some vacuums come with noise-reducing features that can help mitigate their potential impact on your hearing. You can also use ear protection while vacuuming to help with noise levels.
Snow Blowers
For those living in colder climates, snow blowers are commonly used during the winter months. However, these machines can produce noise levels upwards of 100 dB, posing a serious risk to your hearing if you’re exposed to them for long periods. Even brief use can result in hearing damage, especially if you’re using the machine frequently during heavy snowfalls.
It’s critical to wear hearing protection while using a snow blower to reduce your exposure to high noise levels. Opting for earplugs or earmuffs specifically designed to block out loud, continuous noise can make a big difference.
Televisions and Home Entertainment Systems
The audio from televisions, home theater systems, and gaming consoles can also pose a risk to your hearing. Many people inadvertently crank up the volume to compensate for background noise, resulting in extended exposure to sound levels that may exceed 85 dB.
To reduce the risk, keep your entertainment system’s volume at a moderate level and take breaks to give your ears a rest. Many modern devices now come with sound limiters, which can help you maintain safe listening levels.
While many of these items are incorporated into our daily routines, it’s important to be mindful of how long and how often we are exposed to their noise. By taking simple precautions such as wearing hearing protection, limiting exposure time, and investing in quieter alternatives, you can significantly reduce the risk of hearing damage in your home. For more hearing health tips, read the CapTel blog.
