Summer is a season full of adventure, outdoor fun, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool, attending summer concerts, hiking trails, or simply enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a vital role in keeping you connected. But, warm weather and outdoor environments bring unique challenges for hearing aid users. Ensuring your devices function smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a strong grasp of appropriate maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically adapted for the summer season.
Common summer challenges for hearing aid users
The changing seasons can present unique difficulties for individuals who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being especially harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Common summer problems to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Sweat, rain, and water activities raise moisture exposure for hearing aids. High humidity levels can permeate into fragile electronic components, potentially causing malfunctions or corrosion. Even modest amounts of moisture inside your devices can affect sound quality or damage them permanently.
Wind and outdoor elements
Strong breezes aren’t just an annoyance, they can dislodge hearing aids from your ears or introduce dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Participating in outside pursuits such as gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might expose your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can affect how well they function.
Heat and sun exposure
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like keeping them on a car dashboard, can result in overheating, decreased battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Extreme heat accelerates wear and tear and shortens device lifespan.
Summer guidelines for safeguarding your hearing aids
With a few practical practices, you can keep your hearing aids safe, dry, and functioning at their best, no matter what your summer plans are.
1. Safeguard your hearing aids from water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always remove your hearing aids before swimming, showering, or any water exposure. To prevent water from getting into your ears, consider using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe your devices if they get wet. Never use heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- Air Out Overnight: Open the battery compartments and keep hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier at night to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Consider wearing 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 functioning effectively, be certain to dry your ears completely after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene
- Frequent Cleaning Routine: Clean your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes made for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
- Eliminate Debris: Examine your devices frequently for dust, dirt, or earwax buildup and clean accordingly. Professional cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can avoid long-term damage.
- Remember to put your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Avoid leaving them exposed to sunlight or hot temperatures.
4. Monitor device function and get professional help
If you experience differences in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing aids, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, make sure to reach out to your hearing specialist without hesitation. They can carry out necessary maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids working efficiently.
Enjoy a stress-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is a time for creating long lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. By being mindful and taking basic steps to safeguard your devices, you can ensure they can withstand hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing conversations, bird songs, and water splashes.
If you’re unsure about the best way to safeguard your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, make an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, knowing your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.
