As a hearing care specialist, one of the things that concerns me most when the warmer months arrive is looking after hearing aids in summer. Although today’s devices are increasingly sturdy and adapted to different lifestyles, summer remains one of the most demanding times of year for hearing technology.
Between sweat, humidity, extreme heat and more time spent on outdoor activities, hearing aids are more exposed to factors that can affect how they work. And although it’s often underestimated, poor maintenance can significantly shorten their working life or cause unexpected faults right when you need them most.
That’s why in this article I want to give you a complete, practical guide on how to protect your hearing aids in summer, based on my daily experience and the main tips we give in clinic.
Why does summer pose a risk to your hearing aids?
Summer combines several factors that are already tricky for any electronic device on their own, and even more so together. Here are the main risks:
- Excessive sweating: Sweat can seep into the microphones, speakers and internal electrical connections.
- Ambient humidity: Coastal or humid areas can cause condensation to build up inside the hearing aids.
- High temperatures: Excessive heat can damage the battery, warp plastic components, or affect the circuitry.
- Contact with water: The beach, pool, showers or even rain can be a hazard if precautions aren’t taken.
- Sand and dust: These can clog microphones and cause faults if not cleaned properly.
Many of these factors act invisibly and gradually, so the user often doesn’t notice the deterioration until the hearing aid stops working properly.
Watch out for sweat: how to keep it from affecting your hearing aids
One of the most common enemies in summer is sweat. Although it might seem harmless, it’s salty, corrosive, and can get into the sensitive parts of the hearing aid, especially if you wear behind-the-ear (BTE) models.
What can you do?
- Dry your hearing aids several times a day: Carry a microfibre cloth or a soft, dry tissue with you. It’s very useful to clean them after physical activity, walking, or simply being out and about.
- Use protective covers: There are special covers that wrap around the hearing aid and protect it from sweat. Some are made from breathable, water-resistant materials.
- Avoid touching your hearing aids with damp or sweaty hands.
Protect your hearing aids from extreme heat
Hearing aids are sensitive electronic devices. High temperatures can directly affect their components, especially the battery and the outer plastic casing.
Key tips:
- Don’t leave your hearing aids in direct sunlight. If you take them off, always store them in their case, somewhere sheltered.
- Avoid leaving the case in the car or near sunny windows. Inside a closed vehicle, the temperature can exceed 50°C within a few minutes.
Ambient humidity: how to remove it and prevent internal damage
Humidity doesn’t need direct contact with water to cause damage. Sweat, a humid environment or temperature changes can also cause condensation inside the hearing aid.
Practical solutions:
- Use a hearing aid dehumidifier. It’s one of the most worthwhile accessories in summer. There are electric versions and ones with drying capsules. Ideally, leave your hearing aids in the dehumidifier every night.
- Quick drying after exposure: If you’re coming back from the beach or the pool, even if you haven’t got wet yourself, it’s best to dry your devices well once you’re home.
- Avoid leaving your hearing aids in the bathroom, as steam from a shower can condense inside the device.
Water, salt and chlorine: what should never touch your hearing aids
We sometimes forget that something as everyday as swimming, showering or washing our hair can become a problem if we don’t take our hearing aids out first.
- Never swim or shower with your hearing aids in. Even water-resistant models aren’t designed for prolonged immersion.
- Salt water and chlorine are especially damaging. They can corrode the metal connectors or internal soldering.
- If they get wet by accident: Switch them off, remove the batteries, dry them carefully, and place them in the dehumidifier.
Watch out for sand, dust and sunscreen
The beach is a great place to enjoy yourself, but it’s also a constant source of fine sand and airborne particles that can get into the openings of your hearing aids.
What you can do:
- Avoid handling your hearing aids with hands covered in sunscreen. Grease and oil can get into the microphones or affect the casing.
- Clean your hearing aids at the end of the day. Use a soft brush or the specific brush from your maintenance kit.
- Store them in their case when you’re not wearing them. Avoid leaving them on towels or in open bags.
Look after the battery and charging system
Heat can also affect the performance of batteries or rechargeable charging systems.
- Don’t charge your hearing aids in hot environments or in direct sunlight.
- Keep the charger away from direct heat sources.
- Check the battery level regularly. If you notice it lasting less than usual, this could be due to poor storage or overheating.
Daily cleaning: your best ally in summer
A daily cleaning routine is essential at this time of year. Even if it feels like a chore, the 5 minutes you spend on it at the end of the day can save you a lot of problems.
The bare minimum I’d recommend:
- Wipe the hearing aid with a dry cloth every night.
- Use the brush to remove any wax build-up on the mould or microphone.
- Check that the tubing isn’t blocked (on BTE models).
- Replace the filters or wax guards according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Recommended accessories for summer
If you’re going to be away from home or on holiday for several days, make sure to bring the following with you:
✔ Portable or travel dehumidifier
✔ Hard case
✔ Microfibre cloths
✔ Cleaning brush
✔ Spare batteries or charger
✔ Protective covers against sweat or dust
When should you visit a hearing centre?
Even with your best efforts at care, hearing aids can sometimes develop an issue. Here are a few signs it’s time to book an appointment with your hearing care specialist:
- Strange noises or whistling when you put them in
- Shorter battery life for no apparent reason
- Distorted sound quality
- Occasional cutting out or switching off
- Visible moisture inside the mould
At BienestarAudio we check your hearing aids, give them a thorough clean, and help keep them in top shape so they don’t let you down when you need them most.
Summer doesn’t have to be a threat to your hearing aids. With a little daily attention, the right accessories and a good care routine, you can enjoy the beach, the mountains, or any getaway without worry.
As a hearing care specialist, my goal isn’t just to fit you with hearing aids, but to help you keep them in perfect condition, so you don’t miss a single detail of what’s happening around you.
If you need a check-up, a cleaning, or simply some guidance on how to look after your hearing aids this summer, come and see us at our hearing centre in Valencia. We’ll be delighted to help.
To book your appointment you can call us on 960 659 592 or message us on WhatsApp at 621 00 16 93
Frequently asked questions
Extreme heat can damage sensitive components, affect the battery and reduce the overall performance of the hearing aid. As a rule of thumb: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your hearing aid too.
Humidity can cause corrosion and faults in hearing aids. Avoid wearing wet hearing aids, dry them thoroughly when you take them off, and store your devices in a dehumidifier overnight.
Yes. Even water-resistant models aren’t fully submersible. Keep your hearing aids in their case while you swim to protect them from water and sand.
Sand and dust can clog microphones and sound outlets, affecting how they work. Keep your hearing aids in their case or use specific protective covers when you’re outdoors.
Yes. These products can clog the microphones or get into the battery compartments. Always apply cream or repellent before putting your hearing aids in, and make sure your hands are clean and dry.
Get a professional check-up if you notice muffled sound, noise, or excessive battery drain. Also clean them daily and use a dehumidifier overnight to keep them in top condition.
