You’re planning a very active summer. Plenty of beach time and lots of swimming no doubt. You’ll do some regular running and then maybe attend a baseball game or two before heading home and grilling up some delicious dinner. You’re going to be busy! So it’s essential that your hearing aids are ready.
All of these activities can present unique challenges for your hearing aids, but there are a few easy ways you can safeguard these tiny, helpful devices and enjoy your summer at the same time.
Summertime hearing aid challenges
Every season is going to present distinct obstacles with regards to your hearing aids. Climate and weather are the greatest challenges in the summer.
Here are some summer related challenges:
- Debris, sand and dirt: During the summer you’re actually active. But sand inside of your hearing aid, like beach sand, can cause problems.
- Wind: Your hearing aids can be pushed and pulled around by the wind if it’s strong enough. And if you’re in a particularly dry environment, wind can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aids.
- Moisture: Whether it’s from swimming, humidity, rain, or simply sweat, moisture is just about always present during the summer. That’s a problem because moisture can be a huge issue for hearing aids.
In general, it’s fairly apparent why these issues are more prevalent in the summer months: you tend to be outdoors more. And when you spend more time outside, you’re more likely to experience a strong gust of wind or a flash rainstorm.
How to keep your hearing aids working great all summer
Your hearing aids are made to make it possible for you to do more, to improve your quality of life. So throughout the summer, most individuals want to use their hearing aids as often as possible. Caring for 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:
- Don’t bring your hearing aids into the water. Going swimming? Great! Don’t forget to take out your hearing aids before going into the water. Naturally, most people already do this. So residual moisture in your ears after you get out of the water is the real issue. Using a swim cap or earplugs when you’re swimming is a smart plan. By doing this your ears and thus your hearing aids will stay nice and dry.
- Keep a microfiber towel nearby. You can use this to periodically dry your hearing aids. In this way, you can prevent the accumulation of moisture.
- Air dry your hearing aids at night by opening the battery door. This will help prevent damage from corrosion of the battery.
- When you’re doing something that will cause you to sweat, wear a sweatband. Your hearing aids will stay nice and dry because moisture can’t reach them.
- Dry your ears thoroughly. Drying your ears thoroughly will help avoid the unintentional transfer of moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
Take measures to keep your hearing aids clean
The growth of bacteria is quickened by heat and moisture. During the summer particularly, take measures to keep your hearing aids clean. You can do the following:
- Watch for the long-term build-up of debris. As you’re sanitizing your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clean out any debris that might have accumulated. Sooner or later, it’s most likely also a good idea to have your hearing aids professionally cleaned.
- Disinfect your hearing aids regularly. Specialized antibacterial wipes are available for this.
- Store your hearing aids in a place that’s cool and dry. Hearing aids, generally speaking, don’t do well in the direct sunlight. So keep them off your dashboard when it’s hot. Instead, make certain they’re tucked away someplace dry and cool when you’re not 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. 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.