One Million 3D Printed Ear Savers Going to Frontline Workers

Starting April 13, doctors and nurses, cleaners and grocery staff, transit and delivery workers, first responders and all other essential workers can get free Ear Savers which makes masks more comfortable to wear. Given that masks weren’t meant to be worn all day, one company, Glowforge, is trying to make it more comfortable for the frontline workers who are fighting COVID-19. The Seattle-based 3D laser printer company is mobilizing tens of thousands of Glowforge owners across the country, to make Ear Savers. An Ear Saver is a small, easy-to-print adapter that improves the fit of surgical and N95 masks, and makes them more comfortable for long-term wear. The hooks let the wearer use a mask of almost any size. They also remove pressure from the ears of the wearer, which can cause discomfort and eventually damage. The Ear Save is fast to print using inexpensive materials, doesn’t require certification for use, and can be effectively sanitized between uses.