Best Baby Headphones for Airplane Travel

Parent-Approved: The 10 Best Baby Headphones for Airplane Travel [ 2023 ]

Traveling with a baby can be quite challenging, especially when taking the plane. One of the main worries that parents have is that the airplane creates a lot of unavoidable loud noise which, as a result, may cause harm to the sensitive and developing ear canals of their baby. For this reason, parents should always invest in finding the best baby headphones for airplane use.

In fact, newborns and babies up to 2 years of age are at a critical stage. During these developmental stages, their ears are only starting to develop. These earphones need to effectively block out harmful noise that the baby might be exposed to in order to allow their baby’s ears to develop normally.

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Although there are a lot of baby headphones in the market, you should not worry about the confusion it may bring in choosing which one to get. Because, you can find the breakdown of the 10 best baby headphones for planes right here.

This article will discuss the following topics in detail:

  • Top 10 Best Baby Headphones for Airplane Travel Reviews
  • Buying Guide
  • Frequently Asked Questions regarding finding the best baby headphones for planes.

However, before moving forward, below is a quick preview of the items which form part of the top 10 list.

Product Comparison Table

ImageBrandDetails
BEST OVERALL
LilGadgetsCheck price
PREMIUM PICK
BanzCheck price
BEST VALUE
Alpine Hearing ProtectionCheck price
Vanderfields Check price
DamaiuCheck price
Dr.meterCheck price
BBTKCARE Check price
WORCBGIOCheck price
HEARTEK Check price
Fridaybaby Check price

Top 10 Best Baby Headphones for Airplane Travel Reviews

1. LilGadgets Untangled Pro Premium Children’s Headphones with Share port

BEST OVERALL
Highlighted Features
  • SoftTouch padded headband
  • Polycarbonate and stainless steel materials used for the extenders
  • Limited volume suitable for kids at 93dB
  • Noise reduction
  • SharePort
  • Detachable audio cable made up of braided nylon
  • Bluetooth wireless headphones
  • Battery life: 12 hours listening and 180 hours standby
  • USB charging cable
  • Suitable for children 4 years old and over

The Untangled Pro Headphones is a well-thought-out product that has been designed with the active movement of kids in mind. In addition, it is manufactured using polycarbonate and stainless steel, both high-quality materials. In effect, these help ensure that this product can withstand bending and shock.

Moreover, the headband is flexible and adjustable. Also, both the headband and ear pads are cushioned with LilGadgets’ own mesh material called SoftTouch for ultimate comfort. But, that’s not the only feature that lists this product on this list of the best baby headphones for airplane.

Furthemore, this headphone is equipped with passive noise reduction. Thus, limiting the volume to just 93dB, which is considered to be safe for kids and adds protection for your child’s ears. Another notable feature is the SharePort, which allows multiple headphones to connect to one device. Finally, it also has a detachable audio cable and Bluetooth to lessen issues involving the tangling of wires and unnecessary tugging of the cable.

The battery life is also remarkable. It gives your baby up to 12 hours of listening time or 180 hours of standby time. Thus, you won’t have to keep worrying about recharging all the time, which also makes it ideal when traveling. Take note that the 12-hour listening time is already quite long for a child, within a day. Thus, it’s likely it’ll take you days before recharging becomes necessary. 

Pros
  • Adjustable and flexible
  • Efficient battery life
  • Durability
  • Good for sharing
  • Tangle-free use
  • Includes a travel pouch
  • Looks stylish
Cons
  • Although it is flexible, it is not foldable and some parents might not want to keep bringing around something bulky when traveling as it may consume space.

2. Baby Banz Infant Earmuffs

PREMIUM PICK
Highlighted Features
  • Noise reduction rating of NRR 31dB
  • Soft and comfortable padding
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Adjustable headband
  • Fits newborns and even babies over 2 years old

This brand prides itself as the maker of original hearing protection for babies and toddlers. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that it lands a slot on this list of the best baby headphones for airplane. There are many reasons why this is so.

First, these headphones have a superior noise reduction rating of NRR 31dB. Because of this, it effectively blocks out noise that may be harmful to your baby’s ears. Thus, your baby’s ears are better protected.

Second, this headphone has been specifically designed for babies. This product features a soft padded cushion. And, it only weighs less than 7 ounces. It ensures that it will not cause any discomfort to the baby. As a result, your baby can stay comfortable wearing it continuously over long periods and not have to struggle to take it off.

Third, the Baby Banz Infant Earmuffs is compact. So, you can easily pack it and tag it along. That is, while consuming as little space as possible in your baby bag.

Fourth, the materials used in making these earmuffs are of high quality. For which, you can be assured that it is built to last. Finally, these earmuffs also come with an adjustable headband which helps keep it functional. Thus, it can be adjusted to your baby’s growing head circumference which allows you to get more value for your money over time.

Pros
  • High noise reduction rating
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Adjustable headband
Cons
  • The sizing may cause confusion in purchasing this item. Although it says it is suitable for newborns and babies up to 2 years old and over, the fit depends on the size of the baby’s head. As such, this product may not necessarily fit bigger babies and babies who are 2 years old and over.

3. Alpine Hearing Protection Muffy Baby Ear Protection

BEST VALUE
Highlighted Features
  • Soft and adjustable headband
  • Optimal protection with 23dB noise reduction rating
  • Universal fit
  • Modern design

This next best baby headphones for airplane features unique hearing protection for babies. It can effectively block out sound for up to 23dB. Moreover, its modern design is made up of striped elastic material. It also has a velcro that goes around it for easier adjustment. So, you can be assured of a snug fit.

Furthermore, the design allows the earmuffs to stay in place and so it does not need to be adjusted several times. Because of its soft and lightweight materials, the baby can wear it without feeling too much pressure and discomfort.

Pros
  • One size fits all
  • Adjustable
  • Unique design
  • Does not put too much pressure on the baby’s head
  • Includes a Protect&Go bag to keep the item clean
Cons
  • The straps are tights, especially when its still new.

4. Vanderfields Earmuffs for Kids

Highlighted Features
  • Double-shell design
  • Certified protection of ANSI 3.19 and CE EN 352-1 for noise reduction
  • Memory foam padding
  • Adjustable headband
  • Foldable design

The Vanderfields earmuffs is the next product on this list of the best baby headphones for airplane. For starters, this product conveys both satisfactory appearance and functionality.

Not only does the design make your kids look cool but also protect their ears. It specifically features a double-shell design that allows noise reduction, including ambient sounds from the surroundings. Meanwhile, it remains comfortable to wear because of its memory foam padding.

Furthermore, it can be adjusted to fit your child’s head perfectly so it does not keep falling off. Finally, this product also has a foldable design which makes it convenient to carry around.

Pros
  • Sound dampening
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Adjustable headband for the perfect fit
  • Foldable design
  • 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
  • The size may be too big for babies younger than 3 years old.

5. Damaiu Noise Cancellation Baby Ear Protection Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Ideal hearing earmuffs for toddlers and infants
  • Noise cancellation with professional noise dampening sponge
  • Superior comfort with extra soft padded cups
  • It helps baby sleep longer and better
  • Extremely lightweight and compact

The Damaiu noise canceling baby ear protection headphone is truly one of the most amazing products with good features and a reasonable price. We found these headphones to be extremely lightweight and compact in size. One thing that makes it more impressive is the ultimate noise cancellation to protect your kids from hearing loss. It comprises a professional noise dampening sponge and thickening solid cups that ensure ultimate noise cancellation. It’s easy to store and carry as well.

Pros
  • You can easily store and carry them due to their extremely lightweight and compact size.
  • The product comes with a 90-day full warranty and a 3-years replacement warranty.
  • You can find the proper size precisely due to the wide range of adjustments and prevent your baby from shaking it off.
  • It’s explicitly designed with a professional noise dampening sponge and thickening solid cups for keeping the kids secure from hearing loss.
Cons
  • The plastic used for the headband may not be of superior quality.

6. Dr. Meter Noise Reduction Earmuffs for Kids

Highlighted Features
  • High-density sponge material
  • Expandable stainless steel headband covered in a soft leather coating
  • Ultra soundproof
  • 27dB noise reduction rating
  • Adjustable bracket
  • Cushioned support

What earns this product a place in this best baby headphones for airplane list? Analogous to other products above, this noise reduction earmuff provides effective and efficient ear protection for your baby that can block out noise.

Also, it is made with an adjustable soft PU leather which provides added protection and comfort. That’s because of its high-density sponge and soft leather wrapped around it.

In addition, this product features 360 rotatable cups that allow the earmuffs to be folded into a smaller size. Thus, making the product compact and more convenient to carry. Furthermore, the design allows heat to dissipate which minimizes your baby’s discomfort. As a result, it discourages your little one from removing the headphones when their ears become sweaty and irritated.

Pros
  • High-quality PU leather for added comfort
  • Adjustable size
  • Foldable design
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Noise reduction
Cons
  • This does not fully block out the sounds outside the earmuffs as advertised. What it does is to effectively reduce noise so it is not damaging to the baby’s ears.

7. BBTKCare Baby Ear Protection Noise Cancelling Headphones for Babies

Highlighted Features
  • For babies or toddlers aged 3 to 24 months old
  • Adjustable wide padded headband
  • Durable material
  • Weighs 180 grams only

Since babies’ ears are sensitive, ear protection is vital. That’s what products on this listing of best baby headphones for airplane is all about.

Specifically for this product, the material used is fine quality plastic. It is safe and effective in softening the background sound. At the same time, it has a wide arch design that allows it to stay put on your baby’s head without unnecessary pressure. 

Pros
  • Effectively softens background noise
  • Comfortable for babies
  • Lightweight
  • Fits babies (3 months to 2 years old)
  • Flexible, so it does not break easily
Cons
  • The size may be limited up to 24 months old only for most babies

8. WORCBGIO Infant Baby Earmuff Ear Protection Headphones

Highlighted Features
  • Unique, attractive design adjustable headband
  • High-performance noise cancellation headphone
  • Elegant and colorful box packaging with storage bag
  • Professionally certified and approved
  • Lightweight, comfortable, and budget-friendly

While reviewing this product, something that stunned us the most was its effectiveness with babies around construction areas and airplanes. This baby ear protection headphone is extremely comfortable and convenient, allowing your baby to enjoy a good night’s sleep. You can extend this earmuff to 37.5 inches, which is adjustable to fit your baby well. The cute design will look amazing on any baby. This earmuff has two solid headphones that are easy to install. After thorough testing, it can be said that the earmuff reduces noise as low as 29dB.

Pros
  • This noise protection earmuff is extendable and easily adjustable to fit any baby between 3-24 months of age.
  • Earmuffs for infants and toddlers are easy to install and reduce the noise to a minimum of 29dB (SNR).
  • The baby hearing protection earmuff is comfortable, convenient, and relaxing, which helps your baby to sleep well.
  • The earmuff is certified and approved by professionals for the best baby care.
Cons
  • At times, the muff may become difficult to line up for putting the headband on.

9. HEARTEK Noise Reduction Protective Earmuffs for Kids

Highlighted Features
  • Long-term comfort
  • Adjustable headband
  • Foldable style
  • Effective ear protection
  • Compact and portable design
  • Padded headband
  • Self-adjusting muffs
  • Soft vinyl earpads

This earmuff features a noise reduction rating that is relatively higher compared to the average headphones available in the market. And because it has a compact design, it’s durable enough to last long.

This product has a foldable design which is easy to keep inside the bag and bring around wherever you go. To adjust the size and position of the earmuffs, all you have to do is to pull out the metal connectors. If you want to extend it or push in the metal connectors or if you want to shorten it, simply pull it to adjust.

Pros
  • Durable and compact design
  • Includes a carrying bag
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Backed with a 5-year warranty
Cons
  • The size may not be ideal for all especially for babies that have a bigger head.
  • The pins may be too tough to adjust.

10. FridayBaby Ear Protection

Highlighted Features
  • Fits newborns and babies up to 2 years old
  • Weighs only 119 grams
  • Comfortable headband
  • Adjustable
  • Smooth and non-toxic material
  • 5-Year Product Insurance

It is designed especially for babies with its large internal space and over-ear cups. With this, the entire ears of the baby is comfortably fit – not to stuffy and tight. In addition, it has 2 sound-absorbing layers, which helps reduce noise up to 4 to 6 times.

This product is lightweight and so it does not cause unnecessary pressure to the ears and head of the baby when worn.  This is made of non-toxic materials that ensure your baby’s safety in cases when your baby accidentally bites the ear protectors while playing.

Pros
  • Reduces noise up to 4 to 6 times
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Safe to use for babies
Cons
  • Size may be too big for babies that have smaller-sized heads, otherwise, it fits perfectly.

Buying Guide for the Best Baby Headphones for Planes

woman carrying baby while sitting on gray seat

Because the market is filled with sellers from all over the world claiming that they are the best company in producing baby headphones, there is no reason for you to be confused and be fooled by their claims.

The key to finding the best products in the market is to get back to the basics and identify what is it that you really need. Your expectations will never be satisfied unless you know what you are looking for in a product.

Here is a quick rundown of the things you need to remember before buying baby headphones:

Size

When you’re  shopping for the best baby headphones, the main dilemma you are faced with is the question – “Will it fit my baby’s head?” This, of course, is one of the most important factors to consider because if it is too loose, then the noise reduction will not work effectively and if it is too tight, then this might cause discomfort and put a lot of pressure on your baby’s head.

To address this problem, measure your baby’s head and compare it to the measurements provided for in the seller’s website. Note that even if the seller claims that it is suitable for babies from newborn up to 2 years old and above, this does not mean that it will fit your baby’s head perfectly.

A baby’s head size can vary regardless of age. If you notice that your baby’s head is smaller or larger than the average size of heads of babies his or her age, then definitely study the size guide of the earphones and maybe consider sizing up or sizing down depending on the real head size of your baby. Check for customizable size adjustment features that allow you to fit the earmuffs perfectly on your baby’s head.

Material

Your baby’s skin  is very delicate and her ears are highly sensitive.. To protect your baby from skin irritations and minimize discomfort, make sure to check  the materials used to make the headphones. Make sure that you’re buying products made only of non-toxic materials which also prevents accidental poisoning..

Noise Reduction Rating

Since ear protection for your baby is a key benefit you would want to derive from the best baby headphones for airplane, make sure to check the noise reduction rating before you buy. The ideal noise reduction rating for babies to provide them with enough protection is at 20dB and higher. Anything lower than 20dB is a sign that it is not effective for blocking out the sound.

Note that the noise reduction effect can vary depending on every person. However, what is presented in the packaging is more or less the correct rating which one can expect based on the testing conducted on the product.

Weight

Make sure to find a product that is lightweight. The lighter the headphones, the less likely it is to cause pressure on your baby’s head which can lead to damage or injury. It also prevents discomfort which makes it more unlikely your baby will feel uncomfortable while wearing it.

Portability or convenience

 When you intend to use the headphones while travelling with your baby, whether on an airplane or just driving around town, you want to make sure that it’s foldable, flexible, and compact. That way it’s easier for you to carry it around and it takes up less space in your baby bag

Practicality

Do note that another important thing that parents sometimes take for granted is practicality. There are now a lot of ear protectors that are designed so well and well-thought-out that it can be used for a long time or even as the baby is growing older, you can still let them use it. Some companies have come up with designs using efficient and high-quality materials so that the ear protectors can be used by newborns up to 4 years old. You will surely get your money’s worth if your baby can use it for 4 years or more. 

Design

Another thing to remember is that the noise reduction rating may be effective depending on the design of the headphones. The headphones which can maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of the ear protector headphones must be an over-the-ear type and must have a large space for the whole ear to fit in the ear cups. If the ears are not covered fully, then do not expect the noise reduction feature to work properly.   

Comprehensive FAQs that Parents have When Buying Ear Protectors

boy near white wooden shelf

Q: Are newborn babies allowed to wear headphones during airplane rides?

A: Yes. Newborn babies should wear noise-canceling headphones to protect their ears from the loud sounds produced by airplanes. Keep in mind that any sound, including noise, are amplified inside a baby’s ears.

That’s why it  is critical at these stages of development for parents to protect the baby’s hearing.

Q: Should the earmuffs be placed tightly on the head?

A: For the earmuffs to work effectively, the earmuffs must be placed tightly on the head, but not too tight as to cause discomfort to the little one.

Q: How long can babies use headphones?

A: Ear protector headphones can be worn for as long as there are loud sounds or noise in the surroundings. However, it is a different story when the headphones do not only perform noise canceling but also can be used for listening to audio.

During long haul airplane rides though, babies can wear ear protectors for as long as there are loud sounds in the surroundings. Their ears need to be protected. However, when the airplane does not produce too much noise, then you can take the headphones off so the baby’s head and ears can have a break from the heat, weight, and pressure he or she might feel from wearing it.

For these types of headphones, it is important to remember that it is not ideal for babies to use headphones at such an early age, but some babies around the age of 3 and over, can use headphones as long as their listening time does not go beyond 2 hours in a day and that the volume must be limited to 85dB and lower.

Q: Is it okay for babies to sleep with earmuffs on?

A: While wearing earmuffs can help babies fall asleep easily, especially with loud noises around, it’s still ideal that you supervise your baby while sleeping. This is to ensure that the baby is safe, especially when he or she moves while sleeping. In this way, you’re able to adjust or remove the earmuffs if your baby starts to feel uncomfortable.

Q: Are all baby headphones safe?

A: Not all baby headphones are considered safe. You should check that the materials used are non-toxic. You also want to be more meticulous about metal wires and other sharp components, and make sure that these are not showing through. Any protruding part may endanger your baby’s safety.

Q: How to know if the ear protectors are fitted the right way?

A: To know if the ear protectors fit correctly, you should double-check if the ear cups are fully covering both ears of the baby and that it is neither too tight nor too loose for the baby. If it is too loose, then the noise reduction feature might not work properly. Make sure to check the product guide prepared by the manufacturer before using.

Q: Will my baby still be able to hear any sounds while wearing the headphones?

A: Yes. Your baby will still be able to hear sounds while wearing the headphones because ear protectors do not function to block out the sound fully. It is only meant to reduce the noise in the surroundings so that the baby’s hearing ability will not be impaired while it is still undergoing its developing stages.

Q: If my baby doesn’t like to wear anything in his or her head, what can I do?

A: When you see that your baby is uncomfortable while using the headphones, try to adjust the headband to ensure that it is neither too tight nor too loose. A lot of times, the discomfort comes from tightness and pressure that they feel while wearing the headphones.

Also, it is worth noting that there are times that it may take a while for babies to adjust fully to what they are wearing. So keep trying to put it on the baby until the baby gets used to it and feels comfortable wearing it.

Q: Can I still use the ear protector headphones, even though my baby is beyond the age limit provided for in the packaging? 

A: Yes. The sizing provided for in packages does not serve as the maximum age limit for the babies to wear the headphones. As long as the headphones can fit perfectly and it is not too tight on the head, then, by all means, continue to use them because it does not affect its functionality. You will know that it is time to change to new and larger-sized headphones when the ear cups don’t fully cover your baby’s ears anymore.  

Conclusion

Finding the best baby headphones for airplane travel is crucial to your child’s protection. You should take the necessary precautions to protect your child’s sense of hearing to support normal development. Invest in baby headphones with excellent noise reduction features to ensure that your baby’s hearing will not be impaired.

Use the information presented in this post to find the best baby headphones for plane which you can also use for other activities that may require your baby to wear one. Make sure that your baby stays protected so that you, as a parent, can enjoy peace of mind.

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