You have an active summer planned. Some beach time and lots of swimming for sure. You’ll take in some live entertainment, you’ll get plenty of exercise jogging or perhaps playing some tennis, then it’s time to get to the grill. You’re going to be busy! And you want to ensure your hearing aids are up to the challenge.
All of these activities can introduce unique hazards for your hearing aids, but there are a few simple ways you can protect these tiny, helpful devices and enjoy your summer as well.
Difficulties of hearing aids during the summer
Every season will present unique challenges with regards to your hearing aids. During the summer, many of those challenges are weather and climate related.
Here are a few summer related obstacles:
- Dirt and debris: During the summer you’re really active. But when you go to the beach, there’s a good possibility you might get some sand in your hearing aid, and that might cause issues.
- Wind: Your hearing aids can be pushed and pulled around by the wind if it’s strong enough. And if you’re in an extremely dry environment, wind can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aids.
- Moisture: Whether it’s from swimming, humidity, rain, or simply sweat, moisture is nearly always present in the summer. That’s an issue because moisture can be a huge problem for hearing aids.
Part of the reason why these issues are more likely to crop up in the summer is clear: you spend more time outside. And you’re more likely to encounter a surprise rain storm or a strong wind when you’re outdoors so often.
How to keep your hearing aids in good working order all summer
Your hearing aids are designed to enhance your quality of life, to make it possible for you to do more. The majority of people who wear hearing aids will want to use them as much as they can, especially during the summer. This means doing a few extra things to care for the technology and make sure your hearing aids continue working.
Keeping your hearing aids dry
We’ve established that moisture is the enemy of a well-functioning hearing aid (the more sophisticated the electronics, the worse water is). Keep moisture at bay with these tips:
- Wear a sweatband when you’re exercising. This will help keep sweat out of your ears (and away from your hearing aids).
- Don’t bring your hearing aids in the water. Going swimming? Sweet! Don’t forget to remove your hearing aids before swimming. Naturally, this is common sense. So the real risk is the wetness in your ears that lingers after you go into the water. That’s why you should start thinking about wearing a swim cap and earplugs when you go in the water. This can help keep your ears (and thus your hearing aids) nice and dry.
- Dry your ears thoroughly. Drying your ears thoroughly will help avoid the accidental transference of moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
- Air dry your hearing aids while you sleep by opening the battery compartment. This will help keep the battery from corroding and will prevent damage.
- Keep a microfiber towel nearby. In that manner, you can dry your hearing aids throughout the day. In this way, you can avoid the build-up of moisture.
Take steps to keep your hearing aids clean
Moisture and heat can both fuel the growth of bacteria. During the summer particularly, take measures to keep your hearing aids clean. Here are some tips:
- Store your hearing aids in a spot that’s dry and cool. That’s because hearing aids (generally) don’t like exposure to heat and direct sunlight. So keep them off of your dashboard when it’s hot. Instead, when you’re not wearing them, store your hearing aids in a cool, dry spot.
- Don’t let debris build-up over time. As you’re disinfecting your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clean out any debris that may have built-up. Sooner or later, it’s most likely also a good idea to have your hearing aids professionally cleaned.
- Sanitize your hearing aids on a regular basis. Specialized antibacterial wipes are made for this.
Stay active, stay happy, keep hearing
Your hearing aids will be there for you for a lifetime and they will enhance your summer months especially. So whether you’re planning on going for a swim in the lake, hiking over a mountain, or going for a walk around the neighborhood, there’s a way to be sure your hearing aids stay dry and keep working.