Smiling woman with sun hat on the beach.

Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable moments. Your hearing aids are imperative for staying connected as you take part in activities like chilling by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard get-togethers. However, warm weather and outside environments bring distinct obstacles for hearing aid users. To make sure your devices continue to working perfectly through the season, it’s important to understand how to care for them correctly during summer.

Common summer obstacles for hearing aid users

The changing seasons can pose unique difficulties for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Common summer problems to look out for:

Moisture and humidity

Sweat, rain, and water activities raise moisture exposure for hearing aids. High humidity levels can permeate into fragile electronic components, potentially creating malfunctions or corrosion. Even modest amounts of moisture inside your devices can affect sound quality or damage them permanently.

Outside elements and wind

Strong breezes aren’t simply an annoyance, they can displace hearing aids from your ears or introduce dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Engaging in outside pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may expose your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can impact how well they function.

Heat and sun exposure

Leaving hearing aids in direct sunlight or hot environments, such as a car dashboard, can cause overheating, battery drainage, or warping of plastic components. Intense heat speeds up wear and tear and decreases the lifespan of devices.

Summer tips for safeguarding your hearing aids

With a few practical habits, you can keep your hearing aids secure, dry, and functioning at their best, no matter what your summer plans are.

1. Protect your hearing aids against water

  • Remove Before Swimming or Showering: Always remove your hearing aids before swimming, showering, or any water exposure. Utilize swim caps or waterproof earplugs to keep your ear canals dry.
  • After being exposed to moisture, make sure to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. Steer clear of using heat-producing devices like hair dryers for drying purposes.
  • Air Out Overnight: Open up the battery compartments and store hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier overnight to prevent moisture buildup.

2. Control perspiration during exercise

  • Think about wearing sweatbands or headbands to absorb extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while working out or doing work outside.
  • Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Routinely dry your ears completely before reinserting hearing aids to avoid moisture transfer.

3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene

  • Regular Cleaning Routine: Wipe your hearing aids daily with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth caused by heat and sweat.
  • Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to occasionally inspect your devices for any accumulation of debris, such as dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the necessary steps to remove it. Routine cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent permanent harm.
  • Appropriate Storage: Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place when not in use. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.

4. Monitor device function and get professional help

If you detect differences in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing device, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, make sure to contact your hearing specialist without hesitation. They are able to conduct essential maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids function properly.

Have a hassle-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids

Summer is meant for making memories, not for worrying about your hearing aids. By being attentive and taking simple steps to safeguard your devices, you can ensure they can withstand hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing conversations, bird songs, and water splashes.

For professional guidance on protecting your hearing aids or to set up a thorough check-up, book a consultation with a specialist at your earliest convenience. Make the most of your summer with the peace of mind that your hearing aids can keep up with every exciting experience.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.