In our daily lives, we are surrounded by sound—from traffic horns to mobile ringtones, from movie theatres to earphones.

But how do you know when sound becomes unsafe for your hearing? In 2025, noise-induced hearing loss is on the rise, especially among younger generations. The first step to safeguarding your ears is to understand safe sound levels.

What Are Safe and Unsafe Sound Levels?

Sound is measured in decibels (dB). Here's a quick guide:

What Are Safe and Unsafe Sound Levels? Learn how much noise is too much for your ears.

·        30 dB – Whisper: Safe

·        60 dB – Normal conversation: Safe

·        85 dB – Heavy traffic or hair dryer: Risky over long exposure

·        100 dB – Concerts, DJ sets, factory machines: Harmful in under 15 minutes

·        120 dB+ – Firecrackers, sirens, jackhammers: Instantly damaging.

Also Read: Is Your Job Damaging Your Hearing?

What About Headphones and Earphones?

Earbuds can be harmful when used for long hours at high volume. Many people listen at 90–100 dB without realizing the damage. The 60/60 rule is a good guide:

Using headphones or earphones daily? Know safe sound levels to protect your hearing health.

·        Listen at no more than 60% volume

·        For no more than 60 minutes at a time

Also, prefer over-ear headphones to in-ear models, as they create less direct pressure on the eardrum.

Also Read: Ear Machine vs Hearing Aid: What’s the Difference?

Tips to Protect Your Hearing from Loud Noise

·        Use earplugs or earmuffs in loud environments like concerts, factories, or construction sites

Tips to protect your hearing from loud noise – Know how much noise is too much for your ears.

·        Take listening breaks when using headphones

·        Limit time in high-noise areas

·        Choose quieter appliances and machines when possible

·        Get your hearing tested regularly, especially if you’re exposed to noise daily

·        Even a small step like wearing earplugs can reduce harmful sound levels by 15–30 dB.

 Book a Free Hearing Test & Trial at Aanvii Hearing 

Hearing damage is often slow and silent, but permanent. By understanding decibel levels and using modern tools to measure noise, you can protect your hearing health for years to come. Call us at 96 5839 5839 or visit www.aanviihearing.com to book your free hearing test and trial.