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NRR 28 Ear Plugs — 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000 Uncorded (Push-to-Fit Foam)
$51.50
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EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.5/5 WC Safety Review — 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000 Cordless Earplugs — NRR 28 Editorial assessment by the WC Safety Editorial Team, based on published 3M specifications and category fit. We did ...
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EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.5/5 WC Safety Review — 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000 Cordless Earplugs — NRR 28
Editorial assessment by the WC Safety Editorial Team, based on published 3M specifications and category fit. We did not laboratory-test this product.
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NRR 28 Ear Plugs — 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000 Uncorded (Push-to-Fit Foam) Overview
The 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000 is an uncorded (cordless) push-to-fit foam earplug rated NRR 28 under ANSI S3.19. Unlike traditional roll-down foam, the soft foam tip sits on a firmer self-adjusting stem, so workers push the plug into the ear canal by the stem without rolling the foam between their fingers — a clean-hands advantage on dusty, greasy, or contaminated jobs. These are single-use, disposable plugs intended to be discarded at the end of a shift, and they ship without a cord for tasks where a connecting cord would snag.
NRR is a laboratory number, and real-world attenuation is almost always lower. NIOSH recommends derating foam-type plugs by 25%, and OSHA uses a (NRR − 7) / 2 adjustment when estimating field protection on A-weighted (dBA) exposures. At an NRR of 28, that OSHA method yields roughly 10.5 dB of estimated real-world protection — still ample headroom for the 85 dBA action level and 90 dBA permissible exposure limit (PEL) in OSHA 1910.95 hearing conservation, but a reminder that fit and training matter more than the label. New to ratings? Start with what is NRR and how to calculate NRR to match these plugs to your measured noise level. The 318-1000 sits in our broader hearing protection range alongside other foam ear plugs and disposable ear plugs.
What It Is Built For
| Use case | Fit | Buyer guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Dusty, greasy, or contaminated work (welding, foundry, demolition) | Strong fit | Push-to-fit stem keeps foam off dirty fingers — the core reason to choose 318-1000 over roll-down foam. |
| General industrial noise at the 85-90 dBA range | Strong fit | NRR 28 derates to roughly 10.5 dB (OSHA method), giving comfortable margin over the action level. |
| High-turnover / single-shift hearing protection | Strong fit | Single-use disposable design suits dispensers and visitor/contractor use; discard after each shift. |
| Frequent in-and-out (removing plugs repeatedly) | Moderate fit | Uncorded means no cord to retain plugs around the neck; consider a corded version if you remove plugs often. |
| Extreme continuous noise above ~105 dBA | Limited fit | Use dual protection (plugs plus muffs) or a higher-NRR option from our highest-NRR range. |
| Sleeping, swimming, or concerts | Not suitable | This is an industrial PPE earplug rated to ANSI S3.19, not a consumer comfort or water-block product. |
Earplugs reduce noise, but the labeled NRR is a laboratory number — real-world protection is lower. NIOSH derates foam by about 25%, and OSHA estimates protection as (NRR − 7) ÷ 2. Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 a hearing-conservation program is required at an 8-hour TWA of 85 dBA. Insert foam plugs correctly (roll, pull the ear up and back, hold) for the rated seal, and use dual protection with earmuffs in very high noise. See how to calculate the NRR you need.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Push-to-fit stem inserts without rolling foam — keeps fingers off the part that goes in your ear
- NRR 28 (ANSI S3.19) gives solid margin over the 85 dBA action level even after derating
- Soft self-adjusting foam tip suits a wide range of ear-canal sizes
- Uncorded design avoids cord snag on machinery and tight spaces
- Single-use hygiene — fresh pair each shift, ideal for dispensers and high turnover
Cons
- No cord means a dropped plug is gone — not ideal if you remove plugs frequently
- Disposable; ongoing replacement cost vs. reusable flanged plugs
- NRR 28 is mid-pack — wildfire-smoke-loud or 100+ dBA tasks may want higher NRR or dual protection
- Foam tip is single-density comfort, not the firmest seal for very large canals
How It Compares
Within 3M's push-to-fit family, the 318-1000 (uncorded, NRR 28) is the cordless twin of the 318-1001 corded version — same foam tip and stem, same NRR 28, but the corded model adds a neck cord so removed plugs stay with the worker. Choose uncorded here when a cord would snag; choose corded for jobs with frequent removal.
Need a higher seal or a reusable plug instead of disposable foam? Flanged reusable options like the 3M 1270 reusable corded earplugs (NRR 25, multi-flange) trade a slightly lower NRR for washable reuse, while higher-NRR foam such as the Moldex Softies uncorded foam plugs (NRR 33) maximize attenuation if your measured noise is higher. Compare the full lineup in reusable ear plugs and highest-NRR ear plugs.
Specifications
| Brand / Model | 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000 |
| NRR | 28 dB (ANSI S3.19) |
| Form factor | Push-to-fit foam tip on self-adjusting stem |
| Cord | Uncorded (cordless) |
| Reusability | Single-use / disposable |
| Material | Soft polyurethane foam tip, firmer stem |
| Test standard | ANSI S3.19 (NRR) |
| Real-world estimate (OSHA) | ~10.5 dB via (NRR − 7) / 2 |
| NIOSH derate | 25% applied to foam-type plugs |
Related Resources
foam ear plugs hearing protection reusable ear plugs corded ear plugs disposable ear plugs NRR 33 ear plugs what is NRR best foam ear plugs highest-NRR ear plugs ear plugs vs ear muffs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NRR of the 3M E-A-R Push-Ins 318-1000?
It is rated NRR 28 dB under ANSI S3.19. Remember that NRR is a lab figure — NIOSH recommends derating foam plugs by 25%, and OSHA's (NRR − 7) / 2 method estimates about 10.5 dB of real-world protection on dBA exposures.
Are the 318-1000 earplugs corded or uncorded?
Uncorded (cordless). There is no connecting cord, which avoids snag hazards around machinery. If you need a cord so removed plugs stay around the neck, choose the corded 318-1001 version instead.
Are these disposable or reusable?
They are single-use disposable plugs. Discard after each shift for hygiene. If you want a washable plug, look at flanged reusable options in our reusable ear plugs collection.
How are push-to-fit plugs different from roll-down foam?
Roll-down foam must be rolled between your fingers before insertion. Push-Ins have a soft foam tip on a firmer stem, so you push the plug in by the stem without touching the foam — keeping the part that enters your ear clean on dusty or greasy jobs.
Will NRR 28 protect me at my worksite?
It depends on your measured noise level. For most exposures around the 85-90 dBA range, NRR 28 leaves comfortable margin even after derating. Use our how to calculate NRR guide to match the rating to your dBA reading.
Do these meet OSHA hearing-protection requirements?
They are tested to ANSI S3.19 and can be part of a compliant program under OSHA 1910.95, which sets an 85 dBA action level and 90 dBA PEL. Employers must still provide fit training and monitoring — see our OSHA 1910.95 hearing conservation guide.
How do I insert them correctly?
Reach over your head, pull the ear up and back to straighten the canal, and push the plug in by the stem until the foam tip seals. A proper seal is what delivers the protection — see how to insert foam earplugs for technique.
What material are the Push-Ins made of?
A soft, self-adjusting polyurethane foam tip mounted on a firmer plastic stem. The foam conforms to the ear canal while the stem provides the push-to-fit handle.
How many pairs come in a box?
Pack and case quantities vary by listing. Check the current Amazon product page for the exact pair count and dispenser-box options before ordering for a crew.
Should I choose these or a higher-NRR plug?
If your noise is well above 95 dBA, consider a higher-NRR option or dual protection (plugs plus muffs). For typical 85-90 dBA industrial noise, NRR 28 is appropriate. Compare options in our highest-NRR ear plugs guide.
Can I use one pair for several days?
No — these are designed for single-use. Foam plugs can harbor dirt and lose their seal once compressed and soiled. Use a fresh pair each shift, or switch to a washable reusable plug if you want multi-use.
What's the difference between the 318-1000 and the corded 318-1001?
Both are NRR 28 push-to-fit foam plugs with the same tip and stem. The 318-1000 is uncorded; the 318-1001 adds a neck cord. Pick uncorded when a cord would snag, and corded when you remove plugs frequently and want to keep them handy.
Written by Steven Eaton, WC Safety Editorial. Specifications sourced from 3M published data. Compare the range in foam ear plugs.
WC Safety is an independent PPE retailer and Amazon Associate; no paid placement. Match the product to your specific hazard and follow your site PPE program.
Brand / Vendor
3M
Model / SKU
1000
Product Type
Earplug
Price
$51.50 (Amazon)
Rating
4.8 / 5 — 10 reviews
Availability
Check current availability on Amazon
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Verified Buyer Reviews
Customer Reviews
★★★★★4.6 / 5· 115 ratings on Amazon
★★★★★
The best
Good earplugs. I think they're design is great. If you trim just a little they can ride in your way until needed then just push them in
Verified Purchaser · May 6, 202 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Best, most convenient ear plugs I’ve used
These are quite comfortable, easy to use and perform better (meaning greater noise reduction) than any silicone flanged ear plugs I’ve come across. For me, Angling the posts to the bottom of my ear works the best for me. I really like the fact that you need only push them in. No compressing them first or pulling on the bottom of your ear. Quick to use and am very happy with the results.
Verified Purchaser · September · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Possibly the perfect earplug!
I've worn several kinds of earplugs in recent years, but these are by far my favorite. They're very easy to insert and remove, and my ears don't get sore even after hours of continual use. To insert, you don't have to squeeze and roll the foam part, simply grab the blue handle and twist it into your ear. This is perfect for when you have dirty fingers. If the handles are too long for when you're sleeping, for example, simply cut them to size.I've used a single pair for several months at a time. Cleaning with soap and water does not reduce the effectiveness of the foam. However, the foam will eventually start to separate from the handles after several uses and a few cleanings.The only negative is that I've known one person who found them too small for their ear canal because they don't compress and swell up like conventional foam ear plugs, so they're not for everyone.
Verified Purchaser · September · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great earplugs.
Great earplugs. I know them from work. last a long time. Reduces noise very well. Sometimes after long wearing it hurts a little in the ear but nothing serious. Apparently because of the very good sealing. I wish I had known these Emmets before, when I was a student. I should mention that the seals are not suitable for sleeping because of the plastic structure, but it doesn't bother me. I ordered without cable and received with cable but not bad. A price that is worth the quality of the product.
Verified Purchaser · September · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Best earplugs out there
I really like these! When you work the overnight shift, you need to sleep with earplugs. I have slept soundly through lawnmowers, the neighbors screaming kids, and barking dogs thanks to these. You will need to have your phone/alarm clock close by so you don't oversleep through those! Also great for ear protection for gun firing. Comfy and easy to remove. Best ear plugs hands down.
Verified Purchaser · March 16, · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★☆☆
Too many little bags.
like the ear plugs but to many little bags just put them in a box. Fit well and comfortable.
Verified Purchaser · January 20 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great Ear Protection
Used these at work and wanted them for home. They are easy to insert and not needing to pinch like the other kind. Better design.
Verified Purchaser · October 21 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Best earplugs ever!
These are the best earplugs I have ever used. Comfortable and work great.
Verified Purchaser · January 19 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Push-ins
The guys love these push-ins and they were delivered fast
Verified Purchaser · June 6, 20 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Just what I needed, thank you
Just what I needed, thank you
Verified Purchaser · June 23, 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
Showing 10 of 115 Amazon reviews.
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