If you’re an experienced wearer of hearing aids, you’re likely aware of the importance of proper care, especially during extreme weather conditions. These miniature technological wonders require careful maintenance. Whether you’ve invested in a high-end device, knowing how to care for them is essential to avoid repairs. When you speak to an audiologist, they can walk you through all of the reasons that you should be protecting your hearing aids from cold and wet weather.
These are sophisticated devices which means they can be damaged very quickly because of moisture. In cold weather, everything undergoes a lot of temperature changes, from windows and doors of your home to your technology and your devices. As we move into the season, now is more important than ever before to learn how to shield your hearing aids. So here are the best tips that you need for protecting your hearing aids in the cold and wet weather.
Moisture
When you are outside and you’re wearing your hearing aids, they are going to be affected by the cold weather, but it’s not because of the temperature spike. In fact, it’s not the cold temperature that does any damage at all. It’s the condensation and subsequent moisture buildup in your hearing instrument.
To keep your hearing aids safe from moisture during damp and chilly autumn months, consider investing in protective covers or sleeves designed for these weather conditions. These covers serve as a reliable shield against rain or sleet. Furthermore, it’s a good practice to store your hearing aids in a moisture-resistant container or a dehumidifying box overnight to prevent any condensation build-up inside the devices.
Start Using Dehumidifiers
During the fall season, hearing aid dehumidifiers are particularly beneficial. By regularly using a dehumidifier in the fall, you can ensure your hearing aids maintain their performance and reliability, providing clear and consistent sound throughout the season. Your audiologist is the right person to recommend a suitable option for you, especially for ensuring your hearing aids stay dry and free from moisture buildup after cleaning them.
Use Earmuffs
Earmuffs in the cold weather are always cozy and comfortable, but they also can provide adequate hearing aid protection. Because they are designed to keep the region around your ears warm, it also will keep them dry. If you’re not a fan of earmuffs, you can also use sweatbands as these are an excellent option for hearing protection.
You can do these in sporting events in the fall as well as the winter, but sweatbands are designed to capture moisture and prevent it from entering your ears keeping your hearing aids safe. If you are not sure which hearing protection is right for you, talk with your audiologist. They will talk you through your options for guarding your hearing aids, during the cold and wet fall.
Stay on Top of Your Cleaning Routine
To maximize the longevity of your hearing aids, daily cleaning is a must. When cleaning, use a soft, dry and clean cloth to avoid any potential damage. Additionally, incorporating a hearing aid dehumidifier can effectively assist in removing moisture during the cleaning process, promoting the durability of your devices. If you are not sure on how to properly clean your hearing aids, talk with your audiologist they will walk you through the steps.
Make Sure That You Have Extra Batteries
During the fall season, having spare hearing aid batteries on hand is crucial for protecting your hearing. The colder weather can expedite battery drainage, potentially leaving you without the necessary power for your devices when you need them most. By ensuring you have extra batteries, you can avoid sudden disruptions in your ability to hear clearly, preserving your overall auditory health.
Don’t Use Your Hearing Aids During Outdoor Fall Activities
The cool and wet fall weather may not inspire you for outdoor exercise, but if you’re engaging in any fall activities like hiking or leaf-raking, it’s crucial to protect your hearing aids from potential damage. Avoid leaving your hearing aids in a car or a coat pocket and leave them in a safe place when participating in strenuous outdoor fall activities.
If you require assistance with your hearing concerns, seek a new hearing aid or have concerns about protecting your devices from cold and wet weather, get in touch with one of our audiologists at Kirsch Audiology to schedule an appointment. Call us today at 310-586-5533. We can’t wait to hear from you!
