Moisture Management
Summer brings not only warmth but also increased humidity, which can introduce moisture into the delicate components of hearing aids. This moisture can lead to malfunctions or even long-term damage.
Moisture can be particularly damaging to hearing aids if you live in coastal areas or parts of the country with a more humid climate.
Using the right equipment such as a dry aid kit is important in caring for your hearing aids in summer. These devices help in removing moisture, thereby protecting the internal circuitry.
Additionally, it’s good practice to remove hearing aids during activities that might cause excessive sweating or expose them to water, like swimming or intense outdoor workouts.
Remember, some hearing aids are not waterproof, so they should be removed before any activity involving water, like swimming or water sports.
Safe Storage and Handling
Safe storage is essential for hearing aid care in summer. When not in use, store your hearing aids in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in places where temperatures can spike, like in a car or near a window on a sunny day.
When handling your hearing aids, ensure your hands are clean and dry to prevent any accidental introduction of moisture or dirt. Simple actions like these can significantly extend the lifespan and functionality of your hearing aids.
Protecting Your Hearing Aids from Skin Products
Exercise caution when using sunscreen and insect repellent. These products, while essential for summer safety, can inadvertently harm your hearing aids. Their ingredients may clog or damage the delicate parts of the devices.
To prevent this, always remove your hearing aids before applying sunscreen or bug spray. After application, wait until your skin is fully dry before reinserting your hearing aids. This avoids transferring any chemicals onto your hearing aids, safeguarding their components and ensuring they continue to function effectively.
Routine Cleaning and Maintenance
With increased outdoor activity during summer, your hearing aids are more exposed to dust and sweat. Regular cleaning becomes even more important.
Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean them each day. Pay special attention to the microphone and sound ports, where debris can easily accumulate. You can also check and replace any earwax filters as needed.
For those who are more active or spend a lot of time outdoors, consider scheduling a professional cleaning or maintenance check-up at a hearing clinic to ensure your hearing aids are in the best possible condition.
Bring Extra Batteries
Summer adventures often mean longer days out and about, so it's wise to always carry extra batteries for your hearing aids, if your aids rely on them. Heat can drain batteries faster, and there's nothing more frustrating than having your hearing aids power down during a day out.
Keeping a spare set of batteries in a cool, dry place, like a purse, ensures you're always prepared. Remember, batteries can also suffer in extreme heat, so avoid leaving them in hot cars or in direct sunlight.
Enjoy the Summer Fun!
As you enjoy the long hot days of summer, remember that a little extra care can go a long way in preserving the quality and functionality of your hearing aids.
The summer is also a great time to check in on your hearing health. Why not schedule an appointment at your local Connect Hearing Clinic for a hearing test?
Regular check-ups are key to maintaining not only your hearing aids but also your overall auditory health. Here's to a summer of clear sounds and beautiful moments!