Gilberts Audiology & Hearing Aid Center - Oklahoma

Man holding grandson at family cookout waiting for grilled food to be done

You have an active summer planned. You’re obviously going to go to the beach and maybe take a swim. You’ll enjoy some live entertainment, you’ll get plenty of exercise jogging or perhaps playing some tennis, then it’s time to hit the grill. You’re going to be busy! And you want to be sure your hearing aids are up to the task.

Each of these experiences can introduce unique challenges for your hearing aids, but there are some easy ways you can protect these little, helpful devices and enjoy your summer at the same time.

Summertime hearing aid challenges

Each season will present distinct difficulties with regards to your hearing aids. During the summer, most of those tests are weather and climate related.

Summer-related obstacles may include:

  • Moisture: During the summer, moisture is nearly always present, whether from sweat, rain, swimming, or humidity. Moisture can do a number on hearing aids so that can present a challenge.
  • Debris, sand and dirt: You’re active during the summer. But sand in your hearing aid, such as beach sand, can lead to issues.
  • Wind: Your hearing aids can be pushed and pulled around by the wind if it’s powerful enough. And if you’re in an extremely dry environment, wind can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aids.

Part of the reason why these problems are more common in the summer is clear: you spend more time outdoors. And you’re more likely to experience a surprise rain storm or a strong wind when you’re outdoors so often.

Keeping your hearing aids at peak performance through the summer

Your hearing aids are made to improve your quality of life, to make it possible for you to do more. Most individuals who wear hearing aids will want to use them as much as they can, especially through the summer. This means doing a few extra things to care for the technology and make sure your hearing aids keep working.

Keeping your hearing aids dry

We’ve established that moisture is the enemy of a well-functioning hearing aid (the more state-of-the-art the electronics, the worse water becomes). There are a couple of ways you can keep moisture at bay:

  • Don’t bring your hearing aids into the water. Beach day? Sweet! Don’t forget to take out your hearing aids before going into the water. Naturally, the majority of people already do this. So residual moisture in your ears after you get out of the water is the real concern. That’s why you should consider using a swim cap and earplugs when you go in the water. This can help keep your ears (and thus your hearing aids) nice and dry.
  • When you’re performing an activity that will cause you to sweat, use a sweatband. This will help keep moisture out of your ears (and away from your hearing aids).
  • Thoroughly dry your ears. Drying your ears completely will help avoid the accidental transference of moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
  • Keep a microfiber towel nearby. That way, you can dry out your hearing aids throughout the day. This stops moisture from building up when you aren’t watching.
  • Air dry your hearing aids while you sleep by opening the battery compartment. This will help keep the battery from corroding and will decrease damage.

Take steps to keep your hearing aids clean

Heat and moisture can both hasten the growth of bacteria. So you should also take a few steps to ensure your hearing aids are staying clean during the summer months. You can do the following:

  • Store your hearing aids in a dry, cool spot. Hearing aids, as a rule, don’t handle direct sunlight very well. So keep them off your dashboard on hot days. Instead, make sure they’re tucked away somewhere dry and cool when you aren’t wearing them.
  • Watch for the long-term accumulation of debris. As you’re sanitizing your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clean out any debris that might have built-up. Occasionally, a professional cleaning is necessary.
  • Sanitize your hearing aids on a regular basis. Specialized antibacterial wipes are available for this.

Be happy, stay active, hear well

Your hearing aids are made to accompany you throughout your life, and that’s certainly true of the summer months. So whether you’re planning on swimming in the lake, hiking over a mountain, or going for a stroll around the neighborhood, there’s a way to make sure your hearing aids stay dry and keep working.

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
Why wait? You don't have to live with hearing loss. Call Us Today