You’re planning a really active summer. You’re definitely going to go to the beach and maybe take a swim. You’ll do some regular jogging and then maybe attend a baseball game or two before going home to up some delicious dinner. You’re going to be busy! And you want to make sure your hearing aids are up to the task.
Each of these experiences can present unique challenges for your hearing aids, but there are a few easy ways you can protect these little, helpful devices and enjoy your summer too.
Obstacles of hearing aids in the summer
Every season is going to present distinct challenges when it comes to your hearing aids. During the summer, many of those challenges are weather and climate related.
Here are some summer related challenges:
- Wind: A strong enough wind can jerk and pull at your hearing aids. And if you’re in a particularly dry climate, wind can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aids.
- Moisture: In the summer, moisture is almost always present, whether from sweat, rain, swimming, or humidity. That’s problematic because moisture can be a major issue for hearing aids.
- Dirt and debris: During the summer you’re really active. But sand in your hearing aid, like beach sand, can result in issues.
Generally, it’s pretty apparent why these problems are more prevalent in the summer months: you spend more time outdoors. And when you spend more time outside, you’re more likely to encounter a powerful gust of wind or a sudden rainstorm.
How to keep your hearing aids in good working order all summer
Your hearing aids are made to allow you to do more, to enhance your quality of life. So throughout the summer, most people want to wear their hearing aids as often as possible. Caring for your hearing aids by taking a few additional steps can make that happen.
Keeping your hearing aids dry
Water will damage electronics and the more state-of-the-art the electronics, the worse the potential damage. Keep moisture at bay with these tips:
- Use a headband when you’re exercising. Your hearing aids will stay nice and dry because sweat can’t get to them.
- Thoroughly dry your ears. Make sure you aren’t accidentally transferring moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
- Air dry your hearing aids while you sleep by opening the battery compartment. This will help prevent damage from corrosion of the battery.
- Have a microfiber towel nearby. That way, you can dry your hearing aids throughout the day. This stops moisture from accumulating when you aren’t paying attention.
- Don’t go swimming with your hearing aids in your ears. Going for a swim? Nice! Don’t forget to remove your hearing aids before going into the water. Obviously, this is common sense. So residual wetness in your ears after you get out of the water is the real issue. Using a swim cap or earplugs while swimming is a good idea. By doing this your ears and thus your hearing aids will remain quite dry.
Regularly clean your hearing aids
The growth of bacteria is fueled by moisture and heat. During the summer especially, take steps to keep your hearing aids clean. Here are some guidelines:
- Watch for the long-term build-up of debris. As you’re sanitizing 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.
- Routinely disinfect your hearing aids. You can do this with specially made antibacterial and disinfectant wipes.
- Store your hearing aids in a spot that’s cool and dry. Hearing aids, as a rule, don’t handle direct sunlight very well. So don’t store them on your dashboard on a hot summer day. Alternatively, make sure they’re nestled away somewhere cool and dry when you’re not using them.
Stay active, remain happy, keep hearing
Your hearing aids are designed to help you all through your life, and that’s definitely true of the summer season. There’s a way to keep your hearing aids dry and in good working order whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply taking an evening stroll around your neighborhood.