Caring for Your Hearing Aids During Summer Months

If you’re an Alabama native, you know that this state experiences record-breaking temperatures during the summer. While refreshing after a long, cold winter, extremely hot temperatures can wreak havoc on your hearing aids if they’re not properly cared for. Here are some tips on caring for your hearing aids during these summer months.

Store your hearing aid and batteries in a cool, dry place.

Never leave your hearing aids in direct sunlight or in extreme heat, like in your car, which can reach up to 150° in the summer. Extreme heat can damage essential elements of your hearing aids that can shorten their lives. Hearing aid casings are typically made of plastic which can melt if exposed to direct sunlight or heat. Always store your hearing aids indoors, or, if outside, in the shade.

Be wary of moisture build-up.

If there’s one thing that will damage your hearing aids, it’s moisture. Moisture can damage microphones and receivers and even lead to corrosion of battery contact points. During the summer, the chances of moisture sitting on your hearing aids is elevated as they are exposed to perspiration or extreme humidity. Normal summer activities such as golf, tennis, gardening or even attending a barbeque on a hot day can cause you to sweat, which leads to moisture build-up in your hearing aids. Humidity works the same way. Dry-aid kits can be used to absorb moisture to prevent any long-term damage from occurring.

Keep cleaning cloths handy at all times.

Along with moisture, hot weather is an ideal time for germs, bacteria, and fungi to grow, so regular cleaning is essential to keep your hearing aids free of anything that can cause infections. Debris such as sand, dirt, or even sunscreen and bug sprays can clog your hearing aid ports, microphone, and tubes, which can cause permanent damaging. You can do this by ensuring that you have a clean, soft, dry chamois cloth (such as one used to clean eyeglasses) within reach at all times.

Understand the difference between waterproof and water resistant.

With summer comes family vacations to the beach or Saturdays spent relaxing by a pool. It’s important to be aware that your hearing aid will not be able to withstand water unless it’s waterproof. Water-resistant hearing aids will only protect against minor water intrusions, such as splashes or rain. Be sure to know the difference before you cool off in the water, or simply take out your hearing aids before taking the plunge. When it comes to saltwater at the beach, it’s better to remove your hearing aids before exposure, regardless of whether or not they are waterproof or water resistant. When salt water dries, it leaves behind crystals that can permanently damage hearing aids.

Summer months are some of the best times of the year to spend time with family and make lasting memories. Just be sure that you’re taking every precaution when it comes to protecting your hearing aids.

Feel free to call our office at (205) 871-3878 with any questions or concerns about caring for your hearing aids.