The summer months provide a wide range of exciting experiences, thrilling outdoor activities, and unforgettable 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 cookouts. 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.

Summer difficulties encountered by individuals with hearing aids

The changing seasons can present distinct challenges for individuals 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

Exposure to moisture from activities featuring water, rain, or excessive sweating can present a threat to hearing aids. High humidity levels can permeate into delicate electronic components, potentially causing malfunctions or corrosion. Exposure to even minor humidity inside your devices can compromise audio effectiveness or lead to permanent damage.

Wind and outside elements

Strong breezes aren’t simply an aggravation, they can displace hearing aids from your ears or present dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Engaging in outdoor pursuits such as 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 keeping them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, decreased battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Intense heat speeds up wear and tear and decreases the longevity of devices.

Summer guidelines for protecting your hearing aids

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

1. Protect your hearing aids against water

• Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always remove your hearing aids before swimming, showering, or any 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 reduce moisture accumulation, 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. Manage sweat and physical activity

• Consider using sweatbands or headbands to absorb excess sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while working out or doing work outside.
• Avoid Moisture Accumulation: To keep your hearing aids working properly, be certain to dry your ears completely after showering or bathing before putting them back in.

3. Ensure a hygienic environment

• Frequent Cleaning Routine: Wipe your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes made for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
• Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to periodically inspect your devices for any build-up of debris, such as dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required steps to remove it. Routine cleanings performed by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent permanent harm.
• Proper 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. Keep an eye on device performance and consult a professional for help

If you experience changes in how well you hear, any sounds coming from your hearing device, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, be certain to contact your hearing specialist without hesitation. They can carry out necessary maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids functioning smoothly.

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

Summer is meant for making memories, not for worrying about your hearing aids. With attentive 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 protect your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, make an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, with confidence that your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.