You have an active summer planned. You’re certainly going to go to the beach and maybe go for a swim. You’ll do some day-to-day running and then maybe attend a ball game or two before going home to up some delicious dinner. You’re going to be busy! And you want to be sure your hearing aids are up to the task.
Each of these activities can present unique risks for your hearing aids, but there are some easy ways you can safeguard these tiny, helpful devices and enjoy your summer too.
Summertime hearing aid difficulties
Each season is going to present distinct difficulties when it comes to your hearing aids. Climate and weather are the greatest obstacles during the summer.
Summer-related challenges might include:
- Dirt and debris: During the summer you’re really active. But sand inside of your hearing aid, such as beach sand, can cause problems.
- Moisture: Whether it’s from swimming, humidity, rain, or just sweat, moisture is nearly always present during the summer. Moisture can do a number on hearing aids so that can present a challenge.
- Wind: A strong enough wind can tug and pull at your hearing aids. Depending on the climate, powerful winds can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aid.
Generally, it’s pretty apparent why these issues are more common in the summer months: you spend more time outside. And when you spend more time outside, you’re more likely to encounter a powerful gust of wind or a flash rainstorm.
How to keep your hearing aids in good working order all summer
Your hearing aids are designed to improve 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 possible, particularly through the summer. Taking care of your hearing aids by taking a few extra steps can make that happen.
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 becomes). Keep moisture at bay with these tips:
- Have a microfiber towel nearby. You can use this to routinely dry your hearing aids. This stops wetness from accumulating when you aren’t watching.
- Air dry your hearing aids at night by opening the battery door. This will help counter damage caused by corrosion of the battery.
- Use a headband when you’re working out. Your hearing aids will stay quite dry because moisture can’t reach them.
- Don’t swim with your hearing aids in your ears. Going for a swim? Great! Don’t forget to take out your hearing aids before going into the water. Obviously, this is common sense. So lingering moisture in your ears after you get out of the water is the real concern. That’s why you should start thinking about using a swim cap and earplugs when you go swimming. This can help keep your ears (and thus your hearing aids) nice and dry.
- Dry your ears thoroughly. Make sure you aren’t accidentally transferring moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
Routinely clean your hearing aids
Moisture and heat can both hasten the growth of bacteria. In the summer particularly, take steps to keep your hearing aids clean. Here are some guidelines:
- Disinfect your hearing aids regularly. Specialized antibacterial wipes are available for this.
- Store your hearing aids in a spot that’s cool and dry. That’s because hearing aids (generally) don’t like exposure to direct sunlight and heat. So keep them off your dashboard on hot days. Instead, when you’re not using them, keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place.
- Don’t let debris accumulate over time. You can take a little time to remove any debris on your hearing aids while you disinfect them. Occasionally, a professional cleaning is needed.
Be happy, remain active, hear well
Your hearing aids are made to help you all through your life, and that’s definitely true of the summer season. You can keep your hearing aids dry and in good working order whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply taking an evening stroll around your neighborhood.