Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and unforgettable times. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool, going to summer concerts, hiking trails, or just enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a crucial part in keeping you connected. But, warm weather and outside environments bring distinct challenges for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices function properly 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
Each season introduces its own obstacles for hearing aid users, and summer’s warm, often humid conditions can put your devices in jeopardy. Here are a few common issues you may encounter during the summer months:
Moisture and humidity
Exposure to moisture from activities featuring water, rain, or excessive sweating can pose a threat to hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to penetrate sensitive electronic parts, which may lead to operational problems or rusting. Even small amounts of moisture within your devices can impact sound quality or damage them permanently.
Wind and outdoor elements
Powerful winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or bring particles like dust, sand, and debris into delicate areas, presenting more than just a minor aggravation. Outdoor activities like gardening, beach outings, or sports can subject your hearing aids to dirt particles that hinder their performance.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like keeping them on a car dashboard, can result in overheating, reduced battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Extreme heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Tips to protect your hearing aids all summer long
With a few practical habits, you can keep your hearing aids safe, dry, and functioning at their best, regardless of your summer plans are.
1. Shield your hearing aids from water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always take out your hearing aids before swimming, showering, or any water exposure. Use swim caps or waterproof earplugs to keep your ear canals dry.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to carefully wipe your devices if they get wet. Avoid using heat-producing devices such as hair dryers for drying purposes.
- Air Out Overnight: Open the battery compartments and keep hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier at night to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Control sweating during exercise
- Consider using sweatbands or headbands to absorb excess sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while working out or doing tasks outside.
- Prevent Moisture Accumulation: To keep your hearing aids working effectively, be certain to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene
- Daily Maintenance: To prevent bacterial accumulation triggered by moisture and body heat, apply a daily cleaning routine of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes made for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to occasionally inspect your devices for any build-up of debris, such as dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the necessary steps to remove it. Professional cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can prevent long-term damage.
- Don’t forget to put your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Refrain from leaving them exposed to sunlight or hot temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device function and seek professional help
If you notice any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery drainage during summer months, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your hearing care professional. They can perform required upkeep or repairs to keep your hearing aids functioning smoothly.
Have a hassle-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids.
Summer is a time for forging long lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. With mindful care and a few easy preventative measures, 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 not sure about the best way to safeguard your hearing aids or need professional maintenance, schedule an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, with confidence that your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.
