Tax season can be a nightmare... but when that sweet refund check finally arrives in the mail, we can breathe a sigh of relief and plan how to spend that money wisely. The average refund for 2015 is $3,120 so far. That means now is a great opportunity to invest in a few important expenses you may have been putting off.If you've been waiting for a few extra dollars before investing in some much-needed hearing protection, now is the time. And with a little clever planning, you can stretch just a small fraction of your refund to seriously get ahead when it comes to protecting your hearing!
Here are three easy tips for getting the most out of your hearing protection spend:
1) Figure out what kind of earplugs you need, and then buy them in box quantities instead of single pairs. If you already know what kind of earplugs best suit your needs, and you use earplugs frequently for work, sleeping, etc. then it just makes sense to buy a box. (We also sell cases of earplugs, but for individual users, that's probably a bit overkill!) Industrial foam earplugs -- which work well for many non-industrial uses -- are all available in money-saving box quantities. Since these are non-perishable, you can stock up on a full year's worth of earplugs in one fell swoop. If you don't already know what kind of foam earplugs best suit your unique ears, check out our assortment packs -- these are an inexpensive way to easily try out several different kinds of foam earplugs, so you can find the perfect brand and style that provides the comfort and noise reduction you're looking for. And once you know what you like, picking up a box can save big versus buying them by the pair. Remember, foam earplugs always work best when used once and then thrown away and replaced. It can be tempting to reuse disposable foam earplugs, but resist the urge to cut corners. Your ears are important! Use foam earplugs properly -- aka just once -- to ensure your ears stay clean, healthy, and hygienic, and to ensure you're always getting the maximum rated protection from your earplugs. Again, a box is the perfect way to use disposable foam earplugs properly without spending much.
2) Go custom. A set of custom-molded earplugs is much more expensive than a single pair of regular, off-the-shelf universal fit earplugs, without a doubt. However, if you frequently use earplugs for swimming, music, work, or sleeping, it's important to realize that your hearing protection has become a critical part of your day-to-day life. And when that happens, custom-molded earplugs can become a real money-saver in the long run. While you've got a little extra refund cash to play with, now is a great time to invest in a set of professional lab custom-molded earplugs that suit your application (swimming, sleeping, etc). These earplugs not only fit better and work more effectively than their non-custom molded counterparts, but they also last a whole lot longer. Foam earplugs need to be replaced after every use, and even those sturdier reusable earplugs will need to be replaced every couple of weeks, depending on use. A good set of custom molded earplugs, however, can last for years with frequent cleaning and mindful storage. In the long term, frequent earplug users will see serious savings by going custom. Consider making that one-time investment with some of your refund money, and you'll reap the benefits for months or years to come.
3) Don't throw them out: refurbish your earmuffs and earphones. When you've used your hearing protection earmuffs on the job or at home, day in and day out, you'll eventually find that the ear pads -- the cushions that fit over each earcup and make contact with your skin -- are often the first part to wear out. And as the ear pads get worn, they can become thinner and less resilient, making your earmuffs not only less comfortable, but also less effective at blocking noise. But you don't have to buy a whole new set of earmuffs to fix the problem! Inexpensive hygiene kits, which consist of a new set of ear pads and often also replacement foam sheeting for the inside of the earcup, are available for many models of earmuffs. These can make your earmuffs -- including those high-dollar electronic models -- feel like new again, for as little as $5. And just like you can replace the ear pads on a pair of earmuffs, you can also get new replacement ear tips for your in-ear earphones. Available in many shapes and types (most notably multi-flanged silicone tips, and foam tips in different sizes), you can find replacement tips to make your earphones fit like new again. Or sometimes, better than new! Don't throw out your old earmuffs and earphones when you can easily refurbish them on your own -- for a tiny fraction of your refund.
Until next time, be safe and love your ears.
Sarah Bergman, Web Developer
Ear Plug Superstore
More Ways to Connect With Us:
Have you done your good deed yet today? We’re donating child ear muffs to needy students. Learn more & help now: http://sharetherelief.earplugstore.com/
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