Protect Your Hearing Aids From Sand
Sand poses a major hazard to the function of your hearing aids by blocking microphone ports.1 At the beach it can be all too easy to get sand into your device. Make sure you keep your hearing aids away from sand by ensuring they’re safely stored away. Whether you use a ziplock bag or special covering to create a barrier against sand, the key is that you don’t leave them out where it’s more likely they’ll come into direct contact with sand.
Keep Your Hearing Aid Safe From Direct Heat and Sunlight
It’s not just salt and moisture that can damage your hearing aids, direct sources of light and heat can also damage your device.2 If you’re wearing hearing aids to the beach, make sure you wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect them. If you’re going into the water or taking your devices out, make sure you store them in a protective bag or case somewhere in the shade, like under an umbrella.
Don’t Wear Your Hearing Aids In The Water
If you’re at the beach, chances are you’ll be taking a dip in the water. Some hearing aids are waterproof and it is likely that salt water won’t damage them. However, it is recommended swimming in calm waters and avoiding large ocean swells due to the risk of losing them.
If your hearing aid is not waterproof, fresh and saltwater pose a risk. If water enters your device, it can leave crystals inside that can’t be removed, damaging their function.3 So, if you want to swim, remove your hearing aids and store them safely in a bag or container.
Remove Your Hearing Aids Before Applying Sunscreen
We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen at the beach, but when it comes to our hearing aids, tanning sprays and sunscreen can be harmful. The chemicals in these products can damage the plastic hearing aid body.4
When applying these products to the body and face, always remove your hearing aids first and keep them safely stored away. Then, once you’ve finished applying your sunscreen or spray, you can then rinse your hands and place your hearing aids back in.
Always Carry A Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit
A hearing aid cleaning kit is essential when it comes to looking after your devices - not just at the beach, but year-round.5 Consider a kit that contains a soft brush and cleaning wipes, a drying container to remove moisture, and a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid scratching the device.
Hearing aids are an extraordinary tool that will see you make the most of your time outdoors as you connect with friends, nature, and the gentle lull of waves crashing on the shore. Don’t let risks like sand or water hold you back from enjoying the beach.
Book an appointment at your local Connect Hearing clinic where our friendly team can help you manage any concerns and ensure your hearing aids are correctly fitted so you can be confident when you hit the beach.
References
- Oticon (n.d.), How To Take Care Of Your Hearing Aids, www.oticon.com.au, accessed 11 January 2025.
- San Diego ENT (n.d.), Tips To Protect Your Hearing Aids From the Summer Heat, https://sandiegoent.com, accessed 11 January 2025.
- Easter Virginia Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists (21 January 2023), 3 Ways Water Can Ruin Your Hearing Aids, https://easternvahearing.com, accessed 11 January 2025.
- Better Hearing (17 April 2024), Having Fun in the Sun with Hearing Aids, www.betterhearing.org, accessed 11 January 2025.
- NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority (n.d.), Working with a hearing loss - a guide to maintaining hearing aids, www.sira.nsw.gov.au, accessed 11 January 2025.