How to Insert Plugs Properly: A Complete Guide for Stretched Ears

Whether you're new to stretched ears or upgrading to a new size, learning how to insert plugs properly is essential for keeping your lobes healthy, comfortable, and beautiful. Incorrect insertion can cause tearing, irritation, swelling, or even blowouts — so taking your time and using the right technique is important.

Here’s everything you need to know to insert plugs safely and smoothly.

What You Need Before You Start

Before inserting plugs, make sure you have the following:

• Clean hands

• Clean, sterilized plugs or tunnels

• Lubricant (jojoba oil, vitamin E oil, or water-based lube)

• Clean, healed stretched ears

• Mirror (optional but helpful)

Never insert plugs into a fresh stretch or irritated lobe.

1. Make Sure Your Stretch Is Fully Healed

Plugs should only be inserted into a fully healed stretch. Signs your ears are ready:

• No pain or soreness

• No swelling or redness

• No crust or discharge

• Lobe feels soft and flexible

Most stretches require 4–8 weeks between sizes (sometimes longer for larger gauges).

If your ears are irritated, wait until they calm down before inserting plugs.

2. Clean Your Hands and Jewelry

Cleanliness prevents infection and irritation.

How to clean plugs:

• Wash with warm water and mild soap

• Rinse thoroughly

• Pat dry with a clean towel

For metals (titanium, steel), you can also wipe with rubbing alcohol.
For organic materials (wood, horn, bone), never soak — just wipe gently.

3. Lubricate Your Earlobes and Plugs

A little lubrication makes insertion smoother and reduces friction.

Good options:

• Jojoba oil

• Vitamin E oil

• Coconut oil (small amount)

• Water-based lubricant

Avoid petroleum jelly—it can trap bacteria.

Apply a thin layer to the lobe and the plug.

4. Gently Insert the Plug

For Single-Flare Plugs (best for most stretched ears):

1. Hold the plug with the flare facing outward.

2. Gently slide the smaller end into your lobe.

3. Twist slightly while pushing — never force.

4. Secure the O-ring on the back.

For Double-Flare Plugs:

These require more flexibility. Only use if your lobe is fully healed and stretch is mature.

Steps:

1. Lube your lobe well.

2. Stretch the lobe gently by massaging.

3. Angle the plug and slide in the first flare.

4. Once partially inside, ease the second flare through.

5. Never force — double flares are not for newly stretched ears.

For Screw-Fit Tunnels:

1. Unscrew the back.

2. Insert the front half through the lobe.

3. Screw the back piece on gently — don’t overtighten.

5. If It Hurts, Stop Immediately

Pain, pressure, or resistance is a sign your ears aren’t ready.

Do NOT:

• Force the plug

• Push through swelling

• Use excessive pressure

This can cause blowouts or tearing.

If insertion hurts, wait a few more days and try again.

6. After Insertion: Check for Comfort

Once the plug is in place, your lobe should feel:

• Comfortable

• Flexible

• Pain-free

• Not swollen

A little warmth from increased blood flow is normal for a few minutes.

If the plug feels tight, throbs, or pulls, remove it and let your ear rest.

7. Maintain Your Plugs and Lobes

To keep your stretched ears healthy:

• Clean plugs regularly

• Massage lobes with jojoba oil

• Don’t sleep on freshly inserted plugs

• Avoid tugging or trauma

• Rotate materials (metal for daily wear, wood for breathability, etc.)

Inserting plugs properly is all about gentleness, cleanliness, and understanding your ears. When done correctly, the process is painless and easy. Take your time, choose safe materials, and never force jewelry into a tight or irritated lobe