Skip to content
Industrial Safety Equipment, PPE Guides & Reviews
Industrial Safety Equipment, PPE Guides & Reviews
Moldex 6680 Soothers Cordless Earplugs — NRR 33 product photo
August 27, 2026 Steven Eaton

Moldex 6680 Soothers Review — NRR 33 Uncorded Foam Earplug, 200 pairs

WC Safety Editorial Verdict: 4.6/5

WC Safety Editorial Verdict — Moldex 6680 Soothers: 4.6/5. The 6680 Soothers earns its score by pairing the top-tier NRR 33 attenuation in Moldex's disposable line with a moisture-coated, low-pressure foam that holds up across a full shift — a genuinely useful combination for the 100–105 dB(A) jobs where an NRR 30 plug runs out of margin. We dock it slightly because the moisturizing coating raises cost-per-pair versus a plain high-NRR foam, and the uncorded format isn't right for inspection or food-line work; if cord retention or all-day comfort drive your choice, weigh the corded and Glide variants before committing. For a roll-down maximum-protection plug bought in bulk for a noisy general-industry floor, it remains a strong, defensible pick under a properly derated hearing program.

Moldex 6680 Soothers Review: Is NRR 33 the Right High-Attenuation Foam Earplug for 100+ dB Industrial Environments?

The Moldex 6680 Soothers carries the highest NRR among Moldex's standard disposable foam earplug line: NRR 33. The Soothers foam is specifically formulated for all-day comfort while achieving maximum labelled attenuation — the tapered shape and soft polyurethane foam compound are designed to reduce the "pressure" feeling common in high-NRR foam earplugs. For environments in the 100-105 dB(A) range where NRR 30 is at its limit, Soothers provides the additional margin needed.

Editorial Verdict — Moldex 6680 Soothers: 4.7/5
Highest NRR in the Moldex disposable foam line. Choose Soothers over NRR 30 options for 100+ dB(A) environments where additional protection margin is needed. Also appropriate as a higher-attenuation alternative for workers in any NRR 30 program seeking more comfort through better-conforming foam.

Check Price on Amazon →   VIEW AT WC SAFETY →

Specifications

Feature Details
Model 6680
NRR 33 (highest in Moldex disposable line)
Foam Type Soft tapered polyurethane
Corded No (uncorded)
EPA NRR Label 40 CFR Part 211 Subpart B
Effective Protection 13 dB(A) per OSHA method
Max TWA Protected 103 dB(A) with OSHA's enforcement 50% safety factor

NRR 33 vs. NRR 30: When the Difference Matters

Metric NRR 30 vs. NRR 33
Effective protection (OSHA) 11.5 dB vs. 13 dB
Maximum TWA (OSHA) 101.5 dB(A) vs. 103 dB(A)
Difference 1.5 dB real-world protection advantage
When to upgrade When measured TWA is 100-105 dB(A)

The 1.5 dB difference between NRR 30 and NRR 33 is acoustically modest. However, it matters critically at the margin: if your measured noise exposure is 102 dB(A) TWA, NRR 30 (max 101.5 dB) is technically inadequate while NRR 33 (max 103 dB) provides the needed coverage. Always calculate effective protection against measured TWA before selecting earplug NRR.

Soothers Foam Comfort at NRR 33

High-NRR foam earplugs often use denser foam that achieves better attenuation but feels more rigid and pressurized in the ear canal. Moldex engineered the Soothers foam specifically to achieve NRR 33 while maintaining the soft, low-pressure insertion feel of lower-NRR foams. Workers who have complained about pressure or discomfort from other NRR 33 earplugs often find Soothers significantly more comfortable for all-shift use.

OSHA Hearing Conservation Requirements: When Are Earplugs Mandatory?

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 (General Industry) requires employers to take action when workers are exposed to noise at or above specific thresholds:

Noise Level (TWA) Required Action
85 dB(A) or above Action Level: Establish Hearing Conservation Program; provide hearing protection; audiometric testing
90 dB(A) or above PEL: Engineering/administrative controls required first; hearing protection mandatory
100 dB(A) or above 2-hour daily limit without protection; must use hearing protection
115 dB(A) or above 15-minute limit; double protection often required

The action level (85 dB(A)) triggers the full hearing conservation program requirement: noise exposure monitoring, baseline and annual audiometric testing, hearing protection provision, employee training, and recordkeeping. Many employers issue hearing protection to all workers in any area above 85 dB(A) regardless of measured TWA.

Understanding NRR: The Noise Reduction Rating Explained

Every earplug sold in the US carries an NRR — the Noise Reduction Rating, labeled under EPA 40 CFR Part 211 and tested per ANSI S3.19-1974. Understanding how NRR translates to real-world protection is critical for compliance:

  • OSHA enforcement estimate (50% safety factor): Effective dB = (NRR − 7) ÷ 2. For NRR 30: (30 − 7) ÷ 2 = 11.5 dB effective attenuation
  • NIOSH method (50% derating for formable foam): The same arithmetic as the OSHA estimate — NIOSH keeps 50% of (NRR − 7) for formable foam
  • Maximum TWA with NRR 30 (OSHA method): 90 dB(A) PEL + 11.5 dB = 101.5 dB(A). At exposures above 101.5 dB(A), NRR 30 alone is insufficient; double protection or higher-NRR devices are needed

The gap between labeled NRR and real-world protection exists because laboratory testing uses trained subjects and careful supervised insertion. In the field, workers insert earplugs quickly, sometimes in poor light, without supervision — resulting in significantly less attenuation than the label suggests. This is why NIOSH derates foam earplugs more aggressively than other protection types.

Foam Earplug Insertion Technique: The Difference Between Full and Half Protection

Improper insertion is the single largest cause of earplug underprotection in hearing conservation programs. Studies have shown that workers who believe they are properly wearing foam earplugs often achieve only 50-60% of labeled NRR. Proper technique:

  • Step 1 — Clean hands: Dirty hands introduce bacteria into the ear canal; always insert with clean hands
  • Step 2 — Roll (for roll-and-insert types): Roll the earplug into a tight, thin cylinder — tighter is better for deep insertion and proper expansion
  • Step 3 — Pull the ear: Reach over your head with the opposite hand and pull the top of your ear back and upward; this straightens the ear canal for deeper, more sealed insertion
  • Step 4 — Insert deeply: Insert the rolled earplug deep enough that the end sits at or below the ear canal entrance; deep insertion is critical for achieving labeled NRR
  • Step 5 — Hold: Keep holding the earplug in place for 20-30 seconds while the foam expands and fills the canal
  • Step 6 — Check fit: Cup both hands over your ears and release — properly seated earplugs will produce a noticeable hollow, muffled sound change. If you hear little difference, reinsert

Browse all Moldex earplugs or see the full earplug selection at WC Safety including foam, banded, and reusable options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is NRR 33 effective protection in real-world use?

A: OSHA formula: (33−7)÷2 = 13 dB(A). NIOSH formable-foam formula: (33 − 7) × 0.50 = 13 dB(A). Real-world protection falls between these values. NRR 33 earplugs are appropriate for exposures up to 103 dB(A) TWA (OSHA method) or approximately 98 dB(A) (NIOSH method).

Q: Is NRR 33 significantly better than NRR 30?

A: The 1.5 dB difference (13 vs. 11.5 dB effective, OSHA method) is important at the margin (100-103 dB(A) exposures) but not dramatic. Both provide strong hearing protection in most industrial environments. Choose NRR 33 when measured exposure is in the 100-103 dB(A) range.

Q: Is Moldex 6680 Soothers NIOSH-approved?

A: No. Hearing protectors are not NIOSH-approved - NIOSH approves respirators. The NRR label is required by the EPA under 40 CFR Part 211 Subpart B, tested per ANSI S3.19-1974.

Q: Is there a corded or twist-in version of Soothers?

A: Yes — see 6980 Glide Soothers (NRR 33, twist-in) and 6985 Glide Soothers Corded (NRR 33, twist-in, corded) for Soothers foam with Glide insertion technology.

Q: When would I choose Soothers over Glide Soothers?

A: Standard 6680 Soothers uses roll-and-insert; Glide Soothers uses twist-in. Choose standard Soothers when: roll-and-insert technique is well-established in your workforce; workers prefer traditional foam insertion. Choose Glide Soothers when: twist-in convenience is valued; food/pharma hygiene concerns apply.

Q: What environments specifically benefit from NRR 33 vs. NRR 30?

A: Environments in the 100-103 dB(A) TWA range: heavy stamping presses, grinding operations, percussion equipment, high-speed machining, impact wrenching, certain mining operations. If your measured exposure exceeds 101.5 dB(A) TWA, NRR 30 is inadequate and NRR 33 or double protection is required.

Q: Does NRR 33 foam protect against low-frequency noise?

A: NRR testing includes low-frequency attenuation, but foam earplugs provide less attenuation below 250 Hz than at high frequencies. For environments dominated by low-frequency machinery noise (large diesel engines, HVAC equipment), NRR 33 foam provides modest low-frequency attenuation — consult your IH for specific frequency analysis.

Q: Can I use Soothers for MRI scanner noise?

A: MRI scanners produce significant gradient coil noise (up to 120+ dB). NRR 33 alone may be insufficient for extended MRI operation without additional attenuation. Many MRI facilities use double protection (earplugs + earmuffs) for both patients and nearby workers.

Q: What OSHA standard governs hearing protection in manufacturing?

A: 29 CFR 1910.95 — Occupational Noise Exposure. Applies to general industry manufacturing. Key thresholds: 85 dB(A) action level; 90 dB(A) PEL; 115 dB(A) maximum instantaneous; 140 dB(A) peak sound pressure level.

Q: Can Soothers be used with powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR)?

A: Yes — foam earplugs are compatible with PAPR hoods and half-face respirators. There is no physical interference between foam earplugs and PAPR equipment.

Q: Are there NRR 33 earplugs with a lower price point than Soothers?

A: Multiple manufacturers produce NRR 33 foam earplugs. Moldex Soothers is competitive in pricing; other options include 3M E-A-Rsoft Yellow Neons (NRR 33), Howard Leight MAX (NRR 33), and others. Compare on a total cost (per-pair basis accounting for replacement frequency) rather than box price alone.

Q: How often should audiometric testing occur under OSHA 1910.95?

A: Baseline within 6 months of first exposure at action level; annual thereafter. If a Standard Threshold Shift (STS) of 10 dB is detected, the employer must refit the worker with more protective hearing protection and refer to a physician if the STS is work-related.

Q: What is the difference between NRR and SNR?

A: NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) is the US EPA labelling system (ANSI S3.19-1974). SNR (Single Number Rating) is the European equivalent (ISO 4869-2). They are tested differently and not directly comparable. In the US, NRR is the applicable rating for OSHA compliance.

Q: Where can I buy Moldex 6680 Soothers?

A: Available at WC Safety. See all Moldex earplugs including the Glide Soothers line.

Q: Does NRR 33 protect against all industrial noise?

A: NRR 33 (13 dB effective, OSHA method) covers exposures up to 103 dB(A) TWA. Above 103 dB(A), dual hearing protection (earplugs + earmuffs) is required. NRR 33 provides strong protection against most industrial manufacturing and construction noise, but not against extremely high noise sources (shot blasting >110 dB, large impact presses at close range).

Q: Is there a prescription or medical evaluation needed for earplugs?

A: Disposable foam earplugs do not require a prescription or medical evaluation for standard workplace use. However, OSHA 1910.95 requires that workers who will use hearing protection be evaluated for any medical conditions that might make wearing earplugs harmful — this is typically handled through the annual medical surveillance component of the hearing conservation program.

Browse and Compare on WC Safety

Disclosures & editorial standards
WC Safety participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Outbound Amazon links are affiliate links. We accept no manufacturer payment, sponsorship, or product samples. This content is not medical, legal, or regulatory advice. Safety equipment selection is governed by applicable OSHA standards and your facility's safety program.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Highest NRR (33) in Moldex's disposable foam line — covers measured TWA up to ~103 dB(A) under the OSHA (NRR-7)/2 estimate, useful where NRR 30 plugs hit their ceiling
  • Moisture-coated soft polyurethane foam reduces the dry, rigid, pressurized feel typical of other NRR 33 roll-down plugs, improving all-shift tolerance
  • Tapered roll-down shape inserts deep and seals reliably when the roll-pull-hold technique is followed
  • Sold in a 200-pair bulk count, lowering per-pair cost for high-headcount hearing conservation programs
  • Latex-free, EPA-labelled foam suited to OSHA 1910.95 programs at or above the 85 dBA action level
  • Genuine comfort upgrade path for workers who reject other NRR 33 foams on pressure complaints
Cons
  • Uncorded — no cord retention, so plugs are easy to drop or lose where they cannot touch the floor (food, pharma, inspection lines)
  • Moisturizing coating adds cost per pair versus a plain high-NRR foam, so the value case rests on whether comfort actually reduces non-compliance
  • Not metal-detectable — unsuitable for food and pharmaceutical lines that require detectable PPE
  • The real-world gap between NRR 33 and NRR 30 is only ~1.5 dB under the OSHA estimate, so the upgrade only matters at the 100–105 dB(A) margin
  • Single-use disposable — not washable or reusable, so consumption (and recurring spend) is continuous in large programs

Who It's For

Buy it if:

  • General-industry workers with measured noise exposure in the 100–105 dB(A) TWA range who need the extra margin NRR 33 provides over NRR 30
  • Safety managers buying in 200-pair bulk for high-headcount hearing conservation programs under OSHA 1910.95
  • Workers who have rejected other NRR 33 roll-down foams on comfort or pressure complaints and need a softer high-attenuation option
  • Operations running stamping presses, grinding, percussion, or high-speed machining where maximum disposable attenuation is the goal
  • Buyers who specifically want the highest-NRR foam plug and are comfortable with uncorded, roll-down insertion

Look elsewhere if:

  • Food, pharmaceutical, or inspection lines that require corded and/or metal-detectable earplugs to prevent contamination
  • Lower-noise environments (mid-80s to ~95 dB(A)) where NRR 30 or even lower-NRR plugs already provide adequate derated protection at lower cost
  • Programs prioritizing lowest box price, where the moisturizing-coating premium is not justified by the noise level
  • Workers who prefer a washable, reusable flanged plug over continuous disposable consumption

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 6680 Soothers' NRR 33 worth paying for over a cheaper NRR 30 foam plug?

Only at the margin. Under the OSHA (NRR-7)/2 estimate, NRR 33 yields ~13 dB of effective protection versus ~11.5 dB for NRR 30 — a 1.5 dB real-world difference. That matters when your measured TWA is 100-105 dB(A) and an NRR 30 plug is technically inadequate; below ~100 dB(A) the upgrade rarely changes compliance. Run the math first using our guide on how to calculate the NRR you need.

What real-world protection should I actually plan around with the 6680?

Derate the label, never use NRR 33 at face value. OSHA's estimate gives (33-7)/2 = 13 dB(A). NIOSH's formable-foam derate keeps 50% of (NRR − 7), giving the same 13 dB(A). Plan your program against the lower end and verify with our explainer on what NRR means before assuming 33 dB of attenuation.

How does the 6680 Soothers compare to the Moldex Pura-Fit foam plugs?

Pura-Fit is Moldex's general-purpose high-NRR roll-down foam; Soothers adds a moisturizing coating aimed at reducing the dry, pressurized feel of dense high-attenuation foam. If your workers tolerate standard foam fine, the uncoated option is cheaper per pair; if comfort complaints drive non-compliance, the coating earns its premium. Compare the uncorded Moldex 6800 Pura-Fit and corded Moldex 6900 Pura-Fit Corded.

How does the 6680 compare to Moldex SparkPlugs?

SparkPlugs is Moldex's contoured roll-down foam available in uncorded, corded, and metal-detectable formats. The 6680 Soothers prioritizes the highest NRR plus moisturizing comfort, while SparkPlugs prioritizes format flexibility — corded for retention and metal-detectable for food and pharma. If you need a cord or detectability the 6680 can't offer, see the Moldex 6604 SparkPlugs, 6654 SparkPlugs Corded, or 6615 SparkPlugs Metal-Detectable.

Should I choose the uncorded 6680 or a corded earplug for my crew?

Choose uncorded 6680 Soothers when plugs go in at the start of a shift and stay in, and where a dropped plug isn't a contamination risk. Choose corded when workers frequently remove and reinsert (entering and leaving noisy zones) or where a plug must not touch the floor. The cord trades a small comfort and snag penalty for retention and visibility.

Is the 6680 Soothers a good value when bought in the 200-pair count?

For a high-headcount program, yes — the 200-pair box lowers per-pair cost meaningfully versus small retail packs. The value question is whether the moisturizing coating premium pays off in fewer comfort-driven removals (and therefore better real-world protection). At 100+ dB(A) exposures where compliance is critical, that trade usually favors the Soothers.

Does the 6680 Soothers cover my exposure, or do I need dual protection?

Under the OSHA estimate, NRR 33 covers measured TWA up to about 103 dB(A). Above ~103 dB(A) — shot blasting, large impact presses at close range, some mining — you need dual protection (plug plus muff), not a higher single plug. For the plug-versus-muff-versus-both decision, see ear plugs vs ear muffs.

Can the 6680 Soothers be used under earmuffs for dual protection?

Yes. Roll-down foam plugs layer well under earmuffs; combined attenuation is not additive (you don't add the two NRRs) — OSHA adds 5 dB to the higher of the two devices' field-adjusted ratings. Use the 6680 under muffs only when measured exposure exceeds what NRR 33 alone covers, around 103 dB(A) TWA.

Is the moisturizing coating going to wash out or stop working over a shift?

The coating is formulated to stay on the foam during a single wear; these are single-use plugs, so you discard rather than re-wear them. Don't reuse a dirty or compressed pair to 'save' the coating — degraded foam won't re-expand to a full seal, which costs you far more attenuation than the coating ever buys you.

Are the 6680 Soothers reusable or washable?

No. The 6680 is a single-use disposable foam plug — it isn't designed to be washed and reinserted, and used foam loses the clean, full expansion needed for a proper seal. If you want a washable, multi-use plug, look at flanged reusable earplugs instead; if disposable economy is the goal, browse disposable ear plugs.

Does insertion technique change how well the 6680 performs?

Critically. Poor insertion is the single largest cause of underprotection — sloppy fit can cut a high-NRR plug to half its labeled value. Roll the foam tight, pull the ear up and back to straighten the canal, insert deep, and hold while it expands. Follow the full method in how to insert foam earplugs to actually realize NRR 33.

How do the 6680 Soothers stack up against other brands' NRR 33 foam plugs?

Several makers offer NRR 33 roll-down foam, so the label alone doesn't differentiate them — the 6680's edge is its moisturizing comfort coating, which targets workers who reject drier high-NRR foams. Compare on total cost per pair accounting for replacement frequency and on which comfort profile your crew actually wears consistently, not on box price. Our roundup of the best foam ear plugs frames that comparison.

Are the 6680 Soothers appropriate for food or pharmaceutical production lines?

Generally no. The 6680 is uncorded and not metal-detectable, so it doesn't meet the contamination-control requirements many food and pharma lines impose. For those settings choose a corded and/or metal-detectable plug such as the Moldex 6615 SparkPlugs Metal-Detectable.

At what point does my facility legally have to provide earplugs like the 6680?

Under OSHA 1910.95, an 85 dBA 8-hour TWA action level triggers a hearing conservation program (monitoring, audiometric testing, and provided protection); 90 dBA is the PEL. The 6680's NRR 33 is aimed at the upper end of that range. Confirm where your exposures fall and shop qualifying options under hearing protection.

If NRR 33 is overkill for my noise level, what should I buy instead?

If your derated exposure is comfortably below ~100 dB(A), an NRR 30 plug — or even a lower-NRR option — protects adequately at lower cost and avoids over-attenuation that isolates workers from warning signals. A softer general-purpose foam like the foam ear plug range may fit better; reserve the highest-NRR Soothers for the loudest jobs covered in our highest NRR ear plugs guide.

Why trust WC Safety
Industrial PPE specialists. We do not accept manufacturer payment for placement.
Reviewed by
Steven Eaton, WC Safety Editorial — guidance reflects current OSHA, NIOSH and ANSI practice.
Our standards
Ratings combine published specs, hands-on familiarity, and verified customer data where available; we do not fabricate lab tests.
Affiliate disclosure
Some links are Amazon affiliate links (tag wcsafety04-20); purchases may earn us a commission at no cost to you.
Filed in: 200-pairs, 6680, Disposable Earplugs, earplug, hearing protection, moisturizing, moldex, nrr 33, osha 1910.95, product review, soothers
Previous article Moldex 6687 Glide Camo Review — NRR 30 Jar Twist-In Foam Earplug, 50 pairs
Next article Moldex 6620 Goin' Green Review — NRR 33 Uncorded Foam Earplug, 200 pairs

Leave a comment

* Required fields