In Florida, we’re lucky to enjoy warm weather year-round and have plenty of opportunities to spend time in the Gulf or a backyard swimming pool. But for people who wear hearing aids, the sun, sweat, and water can potentially damage those intricate devices.
Although hearing aids are equipped with some protection against moisture, they are not entirely waterproof. So it’s good to keep them clean and dry so they’ll continue to function well. Read on if you’re wondering how to protect your hearing aid from heat and moisture.
1. Avoid Heat and Moisture When Possible
It’s not always possible to avoid heat and moisture. After all, you may get caught by a surprise rainstorm or venture outside only to face a heat index of 110° with 75% humidity. But it is essential to take precautions when you can. For example, avoid swimming, visiting a sauna, or showering with hearing aids.
If you are new to wearing hearing aids, you may need to have someone remind you to take them out before you shower or leave a note for yourself on your bathroom mirror – at least until you get used to them. Remember, they are not waterproof. And once you take them out, it’s best to store them somewhere other than the bathroom, so they stay dry.
Another tip is to always bring your travel case with you. That way, if you’re about to leave the grocery store, but it’s pouring down rain, you can remove your hearing aids and safely tuck them into their case. Plus, you’ll always have someplace safe to keep them if you get a chance to go for a swim.
Additionally, you should ensure you don’t leave your hearing aids in the car – or anywhere else that could get too hot. On a hot summer day, the inside of your car can heat up to 172°. Temperatures this high can affect the sound quality of your hearing aid, shorten the battery life, and even melt the plastic.
2. Clean and Dry Your Hearing Aids Every Day
Even if you’re not directly exposing your hearing aids to water, moisture can still affect them. On hot summer days, sweat and earwax can build up in the ear. Earwax can clog the sound openings on the heading aid, while sweat can damage the devices’ internal components.
Every day, and especially after spending time in the heat and humidity, clean your hearing aids well. After removing your hearing aid, check it for wax, buildup, and moisture. Check the wax filter, and change it if necessary. Next, use an alcohol-free hearing aid cleaner or dry cloth to clean and dry the body of the hearing aid. Finally, use a cleaning brush or a dedicated toothbrush to clean the mics. While you sleep, you can leave them out to dry on a cloth or towel all night. Repeating these steps daily will go a long way to keeping your hearing aid clean and dry, so they’ll have a long life.
3. Use a Dehumidifier
To ensure that your hearing aids can withstand Florida humidity levels, you may want to invest in a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier is a small storage box that dries your hearing aids. You can use it only during the hottest months of the year – or you can use it daily! These devices will dry your hearing aid better than just leaving them out, and they can help ensure that your hearing aids last as long as possible.
If you have any questions about maintaining your hearing aids or want to ensure they’re in tip-top shape, call or visit Hearing Aids of Sarasota.
