3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Corded Earplugs — NRR 29
$19.99
Final price set by Amazon · may vary
EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.4/5WC Safety Review — 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Corded Earplugs Best For: corded single-use foam hearing protection at NRR 29 dB with a retention cord. Not For: non-noise hazards, or noise that...
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EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.4/5WC Safety Review — 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Corded Earplugs
Best For: corded single-use foam hearing protection at NRR 29 dB with a retention cord.
Not For: non-noise hazards, or noise that earplugs alone can't bring under ~85 dBA (add earmuffs).
Bottom Line: a solid corded single-use foam plug at NRR 29 dB — the cord earns its keep on jobs where dropped plugs get lost.
Editorial assessment by the WC Safety Editorial Team. Scoring reflects published NRR/specs, fit type, build quality and application fit. WC Safety did not laboratory-test this product.
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3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Corded Earplugs Overview
The 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Corded Earplugs are corded single-use foam ear plugs from 3M, rated NRR 29 dB. The permanent cord keeps the pair together so a plug isn’t lost, and lets you hang them around your neck between tasks. Start with our hearing-protection guide and what NRR means, then confirm the noise level you’re protecting against.
The 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 belong to the corded ear plugs range. They are single-use (replace when soiled or no longer springy); for the trade-offs see foam vs reusable ear plugs.
What NRR 29 dB Means
NRR is a laboratory rating; NIOSH suggests derating it for real-world use. Here is how NRR 29 dB lines up with common environments (always confirm with a noise survey):
| Environment | Approx. noise | Fit for NRR? |
|---|---|---|
| Power tools / workshop (~95 dBA) | ~84 dBA after derating | Good fit |
| Heavy equipment / construction (~100 dBA) | ~89 dBA after derating | Good fit |
| Manufacturing / plant floor (~90 dBA) | ~79 dBA after derating | Good fit |
| Firearms / impact (140 dB peak) | Impulse noise | Add earmuffs (dual) |
Who Should Buy the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110?
Buy them if you want single-use foam hearing protection with a retention cord at NRR 29 dB. Consider another plug if you need a different level or style: compare E-A-R UltraFit, VP311-4106 Neons, 90586. For the highest ratings see highest-NRR ear plugs.
Hearing protection only works when worn correctly for the full exposure. The NRR is a laboratory rating; real-world attenuation is typically lower, so OSHA and NIOSH recommend derating it when estimating protection. For very high noise — or whenever earplugs alone can’t bring exposure under about 85 dBA — wear them with earmuffs (dual protection). The 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 reduces noise; it does not eliminate it or protect against non-noise hazards.
Best Applications
Industrial & construction noise
Power tools, plants and construction work at sustained high noise suit a corded NRR 29 plug you won’t lose between tasks.
Shooting & range use
For range and shooting use, pair a high NRR with muffs for impulse noise.
Pros & Cons
Pros
NRR 29 dB protection · corded for loss prevention · soft single-use comfort · one size fits most
NRR 29 dB protection · corded for loss prevention · soft single-use comfort · one size fits most
Cons
bulkier than uncorded · replace regularly · cord can snag in some tasks
bulkier than uncorded · replace regularly · cord can snag in some tasks
3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 vs Other Corded Ear Plugs
| Ear plug | NRR / type |
|---|---|
| E-A-R UltraFit | NRR 25 · reusable flanged |
| VP311-4106 Neons | NRR 32 · single-use foam |
| 90586 | NRR 25 · reusable flanged |
| 90716H3 | NRR 25 · reusable flanged |
3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 vs the Alternatives
How they compare to close options:
- E-A-R Classic 311-1110 vs E-A-R UltraFit: E-A-R UltraFit is NRR 25 (reusable flanged); the E-A-R Classic 311-1110 is NRR 29 (single-use foam).
- E-A-R Classic 311-1110 vs VP311-4106 Neons: VP311-4106 Neons is NRR 32 (single-use foam); the E-A-R Classic 311-1110 is NRR 29 (single-use foam).
- E-A-R Classic 311-1110 vs 90586: 90586 is NRR 25 (reusable flanged); the E-A-R Classic 311-1110 is NRR 29 (single-use foam).
3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Quick Answers
Does the cord lower protection?
No — the cord is for retention only; the seal sets the attenuation.
Are the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 washable?
No — single-use foam; replace when soiled.
Plugs or muffs?
Both for the highest noise; see ear plugs vs ear muffs.
3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Specifications
| NRR | 29 dB (EPA / ANSI S3.19) |
| Type | Corded single-use foam ear plugs |
| Material | polyurethane foam |
| Reuse | Single-use (replace when soiled or no longer springy) |
| Sizing | One size fits most |
| Metal-detectable | No |
| Brand | 3M |
Fit & Sizing
The 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 are single-use foam corded ear plugs. To fit them, roll them down between your fingers, pull the ear up and back, and insert — they expand to seal the canal — the seal, not just the NRR number, is what protects your hearing. They are one size fits most and single-use (replace when soiled or no longer springy). Browse more options in foam ear plugs, the full corded ear plugs range, or all hearing protection.
Helpful Hearing-Protection Guides
- Best hearing protection
- What NRR (noise reduction rating) means
- Foam vs reusable ear plugs
- Corded vs cordless ear plugs
- Highest-NRR ear plugs
- Ear plugs vs ear muffs
- OSHA hearing conservation (1910.95)
3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NRR of the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110?
The 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 are rated NRR 29 dB (EPA-labeled per ANSI S3.19). Real-world protection is usually lower, so NIOSH recommends derating the NRR when estimating exposure.
Are the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 corded?
Yes. The permanent cord links the pair so you don't lose a plug, and lets you wear them around your neck between tasks — the cord does not change the NRR.
Are the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 reusable or single-use?
They are single-use (replace when soiled or no longer springy).
How do I insert the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110?
To fit them, roll them down between your fingers, pull the ear up and back, and insert — they expand to seal the canal. A proper seal is what delivers the rated protection.
Can I wash the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110?
They are single-use foam — replace rather than wash once soiled or no longer expanding.
Are the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 metal-detectable?
No. For food or pharma lines where a lost plug must be detectable, see our metal-detectable ear plugs.
What size are the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110?
They are one size fits most.
What noise levels suit NRR 29?
NRR 29 dB suits common industrial noise once derated; for very high or impulse noise, add earmuffs for dual protection. See what NRR means.
Do corded ear plugs reduce the NRR vs uncorded?
No. The cord is only for retention; the plug body and seal determine attenuation.
Are the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 NIOSH/EPA labeled?
Yes — NRR 29 dB is EPA-labeled under ANSI S3.19. WC Safety sells authentic 3M hearing protection through legitimate channels.
Can I buy the 3M E-A-R Classic 311-1110 in bulk or by the case?
Yes. Use the Request a Quote option for case and dispenser pricing on volume orders.
Should I choose ear plugs or ear muffs?
Plugs suit tight spaces, heat and all-day wear; muffs are faster on/off. Many high-noise jobs use both — see ear plugs vs ear muffs.
Written by Steven Eaton, WC Safety Editorial — industrial hearing-protection desk. Reviewed by the WC Safety Editorial Team. NRR and specifications sourced from manufacturer published data (EPA-labeled, ANSI S3.19). Compare the range in corded ear plugs or read our hearing-protection guide.
WC Safety is an independent PPE retailer and Amazon Associate; no paid placement. Follow your written hearing-conservation program and a professional fit/exposure assessment. General information, not medical advice.
Brand / Vendor
3M
Model / SKU
311-1110
Product Type
Ear Plugs
Price
$19.99 (Amazon)
Rating
4.56 / 5 — 9 reviews
Availability
Check current availability on Amazon
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Verified Buyer Reviews
Customer Reviews
★★★★☆4.0 / 5· 21 ratings on Amazon
★★★★★
Excellent
These earplugs are comfortable & noise reducing!
Verified Purchaser · September · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★☆
Mixed feelings
First I noticed that these things did not feel smooth. They felt rough compared to others I have purchased. When my boss saw them he did not like the shape. Our last supply of another brand were smooth and shaped in a more traditional, pointed style. However, the last ones just wouldn't stay in my ears. This brand, rough or not, oddly shaped or not, DID mold to the shape of my ear canal and they DO stay in. For that reason I am giving them 4 stars. After all, we buy theses for their utility, right, not their beauty. We use these for our band members.
Verified Purchaser · April 8, 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★☆☆
Defective individual packages
I love these ear plugs but lose them constantly, so I decided to get a box of them with cords. They work well; but sadly, a good part of the individual packages (that should come with 2 plugs each one) are missing one plug.
Verified Purchaser · December 1 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★☆
Four Stars
they do the job keep sound out!
Verified Purchaser · March 3, 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
great earplugs
Bought these for my husband. He uses them when he rides his Harley. They are identical to the previous box he had but less expensive. Great purchase.
Verified Purchaser · January 17 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
I'm well satisfied with them
used them before when I was working and am familiar with them. I'm well satisfied with them.
Verified Purchaser · May 26, 20 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Five Stars
Great to have the disposables around the shop. It takes away excuses not to use ear protection.
Verified Purchaser · March 11, · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Five Stars
Makes sleeping during the day easier
Verified Purchaser · November 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Five Stars
priced right and shipped on time
Verified Purchaser · October 17 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
Showing 9 of 21 Amazon reviews.
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