What should you look for when having ear impressions taken?

Fons van den Oord26 September 2025Updated 4 October 20263 min read

Ear impressions being taken for Audibling custom earplugs

Having ear impressions taken for custom earplugs seems a simple step, but there is more to it than many people think. The quality of the impression, the choice of material, the choice of filter and even your personal preferences all play a part in the final result. With good preparation and the right choices, your earplugs stay comfortable for years and protect your hearing well. In this article we explain what to look for when you have ear impressions taken for earplugs.

At Audibling, ear impressions are taken at a partner hearing centre. The ear impressions are included in the price and you pay at the hearing centre.

1. Choose the right specialist

It all starts with choosing a reliable hearing care professional or hearing protection specialist. Not everyone has the same experience with taking ear impressions for custom earplugs. Ask about certifications, references and whether they have experience with your specific sector, for example music, construction or hospitality. How to compare providers is explained in how to compare providers of custom earplugs.

2. The quality of the ear impression

Custom earplugs are made from an ear impression. It must be taken carefully, because an inaccurate impression can lead to leaks, pressure points or a poor seal. A good specialist first checks the ear with an otoscope and makes sure that the impression also includes the right part of the ear canal and outer ear.

3. Choose the right material

Custom earplugs are available in different materials, usually hard acrylic or soft silicone. Hard acrylic is durable and hygienic, while silicone offers more comfort when you wear them for long periods. Get advice on which material best suits your ear canal and the way you will use them.

4. Choosing the right filter

Filters determine how much sound is reduced and how you hear the sound. Audibling works with interchangeable membrane filters from Dynamic Ear Company, with a separate series for each use. For music and hospitality, the DM filter attenuates as evenly as possible, so that speech and music stay clear. In construction and industry, you choose the DI filter, which gives extra reduction of high tones. Choose the attenuation based on the sound around you, because too much attenuation makes it harder to talk and to hear signals. All filters and their values are in how the DR, DM, DI and DIM filters work.

5. Fit and trial wear

When your custom earplugs are ready, test them properly. Check that there are no pressure points, that they do not come loose when you talk or chew and that the attenuation feels comfortable. A good specialist can make small adjustments if the fit is not quite right yet.

6. Hygiene and care

Buying custom earplugs should also come with advice on care. Ask for a cleaning kit and instructions to keep the earplugs clean and hygienic. Regular care extends their lifespan and keeps the filters clean, so that they keep working well.

7. Warranty and service

Check whether there is a warranty on the fit and how long you can expect service. Some suppliers offer annual checks of the fit and free adjustments if the custom earplugs do not fit well. That way you solve problems with the fit in time.

8. Costs and possible reimbursement

Although custom earplugs are more expensive than universal earplugs, they last much longer and offer better protection. From 85 dB(A), hearing protection at work is mandatory and the employer pays for it. Whether that is custom earplugs is up to the employer. Basic health insurance (basisverzekering) does not cover custom earplugs, and only a few supplementary policies (aanvullende verzekering) give a small contribution. Read more in insurance cover for custom earplugs.

Frequently asked questions

No. The impression material can feel a little cold or cause some pressure for a moment, but it does not hurt. Taking an impression takes 10 to 15 minutes on average.

Your earplugs are ready about three weeks after your ear impressions are taken. You agree with your hearing care professional whether you collect them or have them sent to you.

Yes, an annual check of the fit is recommended.

Want to know more?

Want to be sure which custom earplugs best suit your work, hobby or business? Let us advise you on material, filters and SNR values. We take your risks and budget into account and arrange the whole process, from ear impressions to aftercare. Would you rather know the costs straight away? Request a quote, with no obligation.

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