Key Insight: Earring backs are often interchangeable between pieces with the same post size. Upgrading to better quality backs can improve your experience with earrings you already own.
## Push-Back and Butterfly Backs
The most common earring backs, push-backs (also called butterfly backs or friction backs) are the small metal pieces with two open wings that slide onto earring posts.
### Advantages
Push-backs are inexpensive, widely available, and easy to use. They work with the vast majority of post earrings and are easily replaced if lost. Their small size makes them unobtrusive behind the ear.
### Disadvantages
Push-backs can loosen over time, increasing the risk of lost earrings. They offer minimal support for heavy earrings, which can cause drooping. The small size makes them easy to drop and lose during handling.
### Best Uses
Push-backs are suitable for lightweight studs and earrings that are not particularly valuable. They are fine for everyday wear of simple pieces but consider upgrading for expensive or heavy earrings.
## Screw Backs
Screw backs feature a threaded post that the backing screws onto, similar to a nut on a bolt.
### Advantages
Screw backs provide excellent security—they cannot accidentally slide off like push-backs. They are ideal for valuable pieces you cannot afford to lose. Many people prefer them for children's earrings because the child cannot easily remove them.
### Disadvantages
Screw backs take longer to put on and remove. The threading can wear over time, reducing effectiveness. They can be frustrating for people with dexterity challenges.
### Best Uses
Screw backs are excellent for diamond studs, valuable gemstones, and any earrings you wear in situations where loss would be particularly problematic—traveling, swimming, or active occasions.
## Lever Backs
Lever backs feature a hinged lever that opens to allow the curved wire to pass through the piercing, then clicks shut behind the ear.
### Advantages
Lever backs provide security while being easier to operate than screw backs. They distribute weight across a larger area, making them comfortable for heavier drop earrings. The closure is streamlined and unobtrusive.
### Disadvantages
Lever backs are typically only available on dangle earrings, not studs. The mechanism can wear over time, becoming less secure. They are more expensive to produce and replace than push-backs.
### Best Uses
Lever backs are ideal for drop earrings, dangles, and heavier designs where weight distribution matters for comfort.
Quality Matters: Not all lever backs are equal. Look for solid construction and a positive "click" when closed. Cheap lever backs may not close securely or may break quickly.
## La Pousette Backs
La Pousette backs (also called secure locks or guardian backs) feature a spring-loaded mechanism that grips the post tightly.
### Advantages
These provide excellent security while remaining easy to use—simply push to apply, squeeze tabs to remove. They offer better support for heavy earrings than standard push-backs. The mechanism does not wear out as quickly as simple friction backs.
### Disadvantages
La Pousette backs are more expensive than basic backings. They are larger than push-backs, which can be visible behind smaller earlobes. Not all are compatible with all post sizes.
### Best Uses
La Pousette backs are perfect for valuable studs, heavy studs, and situations requiring security without the hassle of screw backs.
## Locking Backs
Various proprietary locking backs use different mechanisms to secure earrings. Some require specific movements to unlock, others use magnetic components, and some feature patented locking mechanisms.
### Advantages
Locking backs offer the highest security against loss. Many are designed to work without requiring dexterity—helpful for those with arthritis or other conditions. Some patented designs include anti-sag features for heavy earrings.
### Disadvantages
Proprietary designs may not be compatible with all earrings. Replacement backs may only be available from specific manufacturers. They can be significantly more expensive than standard backs.
### Best Uses
Locking backs are worth the investment for very valuable pieces, for people who frequently lose earrings, and for those with dexterity challenges who struggle with traditional backs.
## Plastic Disc Backs
Plastic disc backs (sometimes called comfort backs or secure backs) are larger plastic circles that slide onto posts.
### Advantages
The larger surface area distributes weight, preventing drooping and improving comfort. They stabilise heavy earrings to keep them facing forward. Plastic discs prevent metal-on-metal friction that can irritate sensitive ears.
### Disadvantages
Plastic discs are more visible than metal backs. They can feel bulky behind the ear. Over time, the plastic can crack or degrade.
### Best Uses
Plastic disc backs work well as an addition to standard push-backs for extra support, for heavy studs that tend to droop, and for anyone wanting more comfortable all-day wear.
## Choosing the Right Earring Back
Consider these factors when selecting earring backs:
Weight and value of earrings determine security needs—precious pieces warrant secure backs. Wearing duration matters—all-day wear benefits from comfortable, supportive backs. Your lifestyle affects choices—active lifestyles need secure closures. Personal dexterity influences which mechanisms you can comfortably operate.
Do not hesitate to change the backs that come with earrings. Many jewellers can swap backings, or you can purchase replacement backs to upgrade pieces you already own. The right backing transforms your earring experience from frustrating to seamless.