Moldex 6820 Mellows Uncorded Foam Earplugs — Thermosensitive NRR 30, 200 Pairs

Moldex Mellows — NRR 30 dB Ultra-Soft Foam Earplug for Moderate Noise Environments

The Moldex Mellows is a NRR 30 dB disposable foam earplug made from an ultra-soft polyurethane compound — designed for workers in moderate-noise environments where maximum NRR 33 attenuation is not required and where a softer, less occluding earplug improves compliance and reduces over-isolation. Available as the 6820 uncorded and 6840 corded, plus PlugStation dispenser formats (6846 and 6847). When maximum NRR 33 is required with the same ultra-soft foam preference, see Moldex Softies (NRR 33). For a reusable NRR 27 option, see Moldex Alphas.

Key Features

• Ultra-soft foam — reduced ear canal pressure during extended wear: Like the Softies (NRR 33), Mellows use an extra-soft polyurethane compound that expands gently and conforms closely to ear canal contours — minimizing the sustained outward pressure that causes discomfort and fatigue during long-shift wear of standard foam earplugs
• NRR 30 — calibrated for moderate-noise environments: At NRR 30 (11.5 dB effective attenuation after OSHA derating), Mellows protect adequately for environments up to approximately 101.5 dBA TWA while allowing slightly better situational awareness than NRR 33 plugs. In environments where workers report removing hearing protection to communicate or hear warning signals — then forgetting to replace it — a lower NRR earplug worn consistently provides more actual protection than a higher NRR earplug worn intermittently
• Latex-free and PVC-free: No latex, PVC, or other common sensitizers — appropriate for latex-sensitive workers and for standard industrial hearing conservation programs
• PlugStation dispenser system: Available in 250-pair (6846) and 500-pair (6847) PlugStation wall-mount dispensers — supporting high-volume hearing protection programs at area entrances

When to Choose NRR 30 vs. NRR 33

Mellows vs. Similar Foam Earplugs

OSHA Compliance

Moldex Mellows are rated under ANSI S3.19-1974 at NRR 30. The 11.5 dB effective attenuation (OSHA 50% derating) satisfies OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 hearing protection requirements for environments up to approximately 101.5 dBA TWA — reducing exposure to 90 dBA. Confirm that Mellows provide adequate attenuation for your specific noise exposure level before specifying them for your program. OSHA 1910.95(i)(4) requires worker training on correct insertion technique regardless of earplug type selected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NRR of Moldex Mellows?

NRR 30 dB. Effective attenuation: (30 – 7) × 0.5 = 11.5 dB (OSHA 50% derating). Adequate for environments up to approximately 101.5 dBA TWA.

Why choose NRR 30 Mellows instead of NRR 33?

In moderate-noise environments (85–97 dBA), NRR 33 earplugs may cause over-isolation — workers removing protection to communicate or hear warning signals, then not replacing it. NRR 30 Mellows provide adequate OSHA-compliant protection while allowing slightly better situational awareness. An earplug worn consistently at NRR 30 provides more actual protection than one worn intermittently at NRR 33.

Are Mellows latex-free?

Yes — latex-free and PVC-free. Appropriate for latex-sensitive workers and standard industrial hearing conservation programs.

What is the difference between 6820 and 6840?

6820 is uncorded (200 pairs per bag). 6840 is corded (100 pairs per bag, both plugs connected by cord). Same NRR 30 ultra-soft foam in both.

How do Mellows compare to Softies?

Both use ultra-soft PU foam for reduced ear canal pressure. Mellows are NRR 30 (11.5 dB effective); Softies are NRR 33 (13 dB effective). Choose Mellows for moderate-noise environments where slightly less occlusion improves compliance. Choose Softies when maximum NRR 33 is required with ultra-soft foam comfort.

Where can I buy Moldex Mellows in bulk?

WC Safety stocks 6820 uncorded (200 pairs), 6840 corded (100 pairs), PlugStation 6846 (250 pairs), PlugStation 6847 (500 pairs). Browse the Moldex Earplugs collection at WC Safety →