Listen: sounds near 72 dB
How loud is 72 dB?
72 decibels is loud. 72 dB sounds about 2.3 times as loud as normal conversation (60 dB), and it carries 15.8 times the sound energy. Typical sounds around this level: snoring, washing machine, busy restaurant.
Decibels are logarithmic: every +10 dB means ten times more sound intensity but is heard as only about twice as loud, and every +6 dB doubles the sound pressure. That is why a few decibels can make a big difference.
Is 72 dB safe?
For most people, short exposure to 72 dB is not harmful. The US EPA identified 70 dBA averaged over 24 hours as a level that protects against hearing loss over a lifetime, so long, all-day exposure is worth reducing.
Sounds around 72 dB
Loud snoring measured near the sleeper can approach 90 dB.70 dBWashing machine
Louder during the spin cycle.75 dBBusy restaurant
Hard surfaces and many voices push levels up.75 dBToilet flush
Pressure-assisted toilets are the loudest.75 dBVacuum cleaner
At the operator's position.80 dBAirplane cabin
Cruising flight; seats near the engines are louder.80 dBAlarm clock
Measured at the pillow.80 dBGarbage disposal
Kitchen sink food waste disposer.
Safe listening time
| Level | NIOSH recommended limit | OSHA legal limit (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 70 dBA | 256 hours | 128 hours |
| 72 dBA | 161 hours | 97.0 hours |
| 75 dBA | 80.6 hours | 64.0 hours |
| 78 dBA | 40.3 hours | 42.2 hours |
NIOSH: 85 dBA for 8 hours with a 3 dB exchange rate; OSHA: 90 dBA for 8 hours with a 5 dB exchange rate. General information, not medical advice – see a hearing professional about ringing ears, muffled hearing or pain.
Frequently asked questions
Is 72 dB loud?
72 dB is loud. For comparison: snoring, washing machine, busy restaurant.
How many times louder is 72 dB than 62 dB?
A 10 dB increase means ten times the sound intensity and is heard as roughly twice as loud.
How long can you listen to 72 dB?
NIOSH recommends a maximum of 161 hours per day at 72 dBA.