You’ve got a lively summer planned. You’re obviously going to hit the beach and maybe go for a swim. You’ll enjoy some live entertainment, you’ll get plenty of exercise jogging or maybe playing some tennis, then it’s time to hit the grill. You’ll be busy! And you want to be sure your hearing aids are up to the challenge.
Each of these experiences can present unique risks for your hearing aids, but there are some simple ways you can safeguard these tiny, helpful devices and enjoy your summer at the same time.
Difficulties of hearing aids in the summer
Each season is going to introduce distinct obstacles when it comes to your hearing aids. In the summer, many of those challenges are weather and climate related.
Summer-related obstacles may include:
- Dirt and debris: During the summer you’re very active. But sand inside of your hearing aid, such as beach sand, can cause problems.
- Wind: Your hearing aids can be pushed and pulled around by the wind if it’s powerful enough. Depending on the climate, powerful winds can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aid.
- Moisture: Whether it’s from swimming, humidity, rain, or simply sweat, moisture is just about always present during the summer. Moisture can do a number on hearing aids so that can present a problem.
For the most part, it’s quite apparent why these problems are more common during 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 flash rainstorm.
How to keep your hearing aids in good working order all summer
Your hearing aids are made to make it possible for you to do more, to enhance your quality of life. So over the course of the summer, most individuals want to use their hearing aids as frequently as possible. This means taking a few extra steps to take care of the technology and ensure your hearing aids continue working.
Take measures to keep 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). Protect against moisture with these tips:
- Keep a microfiber towel nearby. That way, you can dry your hearing aids throughout the day. In this way, you can avoid the accumulation of moisture.
- When you’re performing an activity that will cause you to sweat, use a sweatband. This will help keep sweat out of your ears (and away from your hearing aids).
- Open the battery compartment on your hearing aids at night and allow them to air dry. This will help prevent damage caused by corrosion of the battery.
- Don’t wear your hearing aids into the water. Going swimming? Great! Don’t forget to remove your hearing aids before going into the water. Naturally, this is common sense. So the real danger is the wetness in your ears that lingers after you go into the water. That’s why you should start thinking about wearing a swim cap and earplugs when you go swimming. This can help keep your ears (and thus your hearing aids) quite dry.
- Dry your ears thoroughly. Make sure you aren’t accidentally transferring moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
Take measures to keep your hearing aids clean
Heat and moisture can both fuel the growth of bacteria. So you should also take a few steps to make sure your hearing aids are remaining clean during the summer months. Here are some guidelines:
- Don’t let debris build-up over time. As you’re disinfecting your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clean out any debris that might have built-up. Sometimes, a professional cleaning is needed.
- Disinfect your hearing aids on a regular basis. Specialized antibacterial wipes are made for this.
- Store your hearing aids in a dry, cool place. Hearing aids, generally speaking, don’t do well in the direct sunlight. So don’t put them on your dashboard on the hottest day of summer. Alternatively, make sure they’re tucked away somewhere dry and cool when you aren’t wearing them.
Be happy, stay active, hear well
Your hearing aids will be there for you for a lifetime and they will enhance your summer months especially. There’s a way to keep your hearing aids dry and in good working order whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just taking an evening stroll around your neighborhood.
