The summer months offer a wide range of stimulating experiences, thrilling outdoor activities, and wonderful experiences that make lifelong memories. Your hearing aids are essential for staying connected as you engage in activities like chilling by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard get-togethers. But, warm weather and outside environments bring unique challenges for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices operate smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a strong grasp of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques especially tailored for the summer season.

Summer difficulties faced by people with hearing aids

Each season introduces its own challenges for hearing aid wearers, and summer’s warm, frequently humid conditions can put your devices at risk. Here are some common problems you may encounter during the summer months:

Moisture and humidity

Exposure to moisture from activities involving water, rain, or excessive sweating can pose a threat to hearing aids. Excessive moisture levels have the ability to penetrate sensitive electronic components, which may result in operational issues or rusting. Even modest amounts of moisture within your devices can affect sound quality or damage them permanently.

Outdoor elements and wind

Strong winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or introduce particles like dust, sand, and debris into delicate areas, posing more than just a minor aggravation. Engaging in outside pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might subject your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can impact how well they function.

Heat and sun exposure

Keeping hearing aids in direct sunlight or hot environments, including a car dashboard, can cause overheating, battery drain, or warping of plastic components. Excessive heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces device longevity.

Summer tips for safeguarding your hearing aids

By adopting a handful of useful habits, you can ensure that your hearing aids remain secure, moisture-free, and functioning efficiently throughout the summer, no matter what your activities.

1. Safeguard your hearing aids from water

• Remove Before Swimming or Showering: Always take out your hearing aids before swimming, bathing, 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. Avoid using heat-producing devices like hair dryers for drying purposes.
• Air Out Overnight: Open the battery compartments and store hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier at night to remove moisture accumulation.

2. Deal with sweat and physical activity

• Consider wearing sweatbands or headbands to soak up extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing tasks outside.
• Avoid Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids functioning properly, make sure to dry your ears completely after showering or bathing before putting them back in.

3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene

• Regular Cleaning Routine: Clean your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
• Routinely Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to occasionally inspect your devices for any accumulation of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required steps to eliminate it. Regular cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help avoid permanent harm.
• Remember to keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Refrain from leaving them exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.

4. Keep an eye on device function and seek professional help

If you detect any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery drainage during summer months, don’t hesitate to consult your hearing care professional. They can perform necessary maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids working efficiently.

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

Summer is meant for making memories, not for stressing about your hearing aids. With mindful care and a few simple precautions, your devices can handle the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you enjoy every conversation, bird song, and splash with crystal-clear sound.

If you’re unsure about the best way to safeguard 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.