Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable times. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool, going to summer concerts, hiking trails, or just enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a vital part in keeping you connected. However, warm weather and outdoor environments bring unique obstacles for hearing aid users. To make sure your devices continue to working flawlessly through the season, it’s important to recognize how to care for them properly during summer.

Common summer obstacles for hearing aid users

The changing seasons can present distinct challenges for people who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Common summer issues to look out for:

Moisture and humidity

Exposure to moisture from activities featuring water, rain, or excessive sweating can pose a risk to hearing aids. High humidity levels can seep into delicate electronic components, potentially causing malfunctions or oxidation. Even modest amounts of moisture within your devices can impact sound quality or damage them permanently.

Outside elements and wind

Strong breezes aren’t just an aggravation, they can dislodge hearing aids from your ears or introduce dust, dirt, and debris into delicate parts. Engaging in outdoor pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may subject your hearing aids to dust and debris that can affect how well they function.

Sweltering temperatures and UV rays

Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like leaving them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, reduced battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Extreme heat speeds up deterioration and decreases the longevity of devices.

Summer tips for protecting your hearing aids

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

1. Protect your hearing aids against water

• Pre-Water Precautions: It’s essential to remove your hearing aids prior to engaging in any aquatic activities, including swimming or showering, to prevent damage from water exposure. Use swim caps or waterproof earplugs to keep your ear canals dry.
• After being exposed to moisture, be certain to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid using heat-producing devices like hair dryers for drying purposes.
• To decrease moisture build-up, leave the battery door open and place the hearing aids in a drying case or dehumidifying device for several hours or overnight, allowing them to air out thoroughly.

2. Deal with sweat and physical activity

• Use Sweatbands or Headbands: These absorb excess sweat and protect both your ears and hearing aids while exercising or doing outside chores.
• Avoid Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids working effectively, make sure to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.

3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene

• Daily Maintenance: To avoid bacterial buildup triggered by moisture and body heat, apply a day-to-day cleaning habit of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes made for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
• Eliminate Debris: Inspect your devices frequently for dust, dirt, or earwax accumulation and clean accordingly. Expert cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can prevent long-term damage.
• Appropriate Storage: Store your hearing aids in a cool, dry spot when not in use. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.

4. Monitor device function and seek professional help

If you detect changes in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing device, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, be certain to reach out to your hearing specialist without delay. They are able to perform essential maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids function effectively.

Take pleasure in a stress-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids

Summer is a time for forging lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. By being attentive and taking simple steps to protect your devices, you can ensure they can withstand hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing discussions, bird songs, and water splashes.

If you’re unsure about the best way to protect your hearing aids or need professional maintenance, make an appointment today. Make the most of your summer with the peace of mind that your hearing aids can keep up with every thrilling experience.