We all look forward to the warm days of summer, with their promise of sunlit days and schedules packed with fun outdoor activities. Unfortunately, for those with hearing aids summer can be a challenging time since it increases the number of detrimental factors that can cause hearing aids to malfunction. This is why it is important to be aware and take necessary precautions to protect those handy hearing aids before going all out this summer.
One of the most obvious problems during summer time is the heat, which can be bad for your hearing devices. Hot and humid climate can cause hearing aids to malfunction. This is why it is not a good idea to keep your hearing aids stored in your car’s glove compartment on a hot day. When you store your hearing aids, make sure you do so in a cool, dry place that does not come in contact with direct sunlight.
Hot weather also means an increase in sweat, which can further damage your hearing aids. Make sure you clean out your hearing aids each night after using them during the summer, and leave them in a dehumidifier to remove any trapped moisture caused by excessive sweat. You can practice this same routine whenever you engage in water-based activities, such as a trip to the beach or any other water sports.
Some modern hearing aids do provide protection from low levels of moisture thanks to their nano-coating. However, this does not mean that it is a good idea to keep your hearing aids on during your next swim, so make sure you remove your hearing aids and store them securely before you come in contact with water.
Another major threat to your hearing aids during the summer is the sand that accompanies those trips to the beach. Sand tends to get trapped into the hearing aids sometimes and can result in damage to your hearing aids. Never adjust your hearing device when your hands are dirty or sandy. Whenever you need to do so, make sure you wash your hands and dry them thoroughly before touching your hearing aids.
Always make sure that your hearing device storage case does not have any sand or dirt trapped in it. In case you do get sand in your hearing aids, make sure to clean them out thoroughly with the tool kit you were provided while purchasing your hearing aids.
We expose ourselves to plenty of chemicals on a daily basis, but even more so during the summer since it is a time for bug sprays and sunscreen. Before using that bug spray, make sure you remove your hearing aids and store them securely to avoid any tiny particles of moisture from entering them and causing damage to their delicate circuitry. The same goes for perfumes, deodorants, hair sprays, and any other liquid cosmetic that may accidentally come in contact with your hearing device. Put your hearing aids on only after you have finished applying all your necessary cosmetics. Now that you are ready for the sun, go on and enjoy the rest of your summer!