Beach Days and Boat Rides: Protecting Your Hearing Aids All Summer Long

Simple Ways to Keep Your Devices Safe Around Sand, Wind, Water, and Heat

Summer on Cape Cod is all about enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're relaxing at Craigville Beach, heading out for a day on Hyannis Harbor, attending an outdoor concert, or gathering with family and friends for a backyard cookout, hearing your best helps you stay connected to every moment.

But summer conditions can be tough on hearing aids. Saltwater, sand, humidity, sunscreen, and heat all have the potential to affect performance. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help keep your devices protected and working their best all season long.

Know the Summer Risks

Hearing aids are designed for everyday life, but the beach and boating environments present unique challenges. Saltwater can corrode delicate components, sand can clog microphones and receivers, and excessive heat can damage sensitive electronics. Even sweat and humidity can create moisture buildup inside your devices.

Taking a little extra care now can help prevent costly repairs later.

Keep Water Away

Even water-resistant hearing aids are not designed for swimming, tubing, paddleboarding, or other water activities.

Before heading into the water, remove your hearing aids and store them safely. After swimming or boating, make sure your ears are completely dry before putting them back in. If your hearing aids are exposed to water, dry them immediately and use a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier as soon as possible.

Carry a Crush-Proof Case

A waterproof, crush-proof case is one of the best accessories for summer hearing aid care.

When you're at the beach or on a boat, store your hearing aids in a protective case whenever you're not wearing them. This helps protect them from water, sand, heat, accidental drops, and being crushed by coolers, beach bags, or other gear.

A brightly colored case can also make your hearing aids easier to find if misplaced in the sand or on the deck of a boat.

Watch Out for Sand and Wind

A breezy afternoon on Cape Cod may feel wonderful, but wind can carry fine sand and debris into hearing aid openings, affecting sound quality and performance.

Avoid placing hearing aids directly on towels, beach chairs, or picnic tables. When not in use, keep them safely tucked away in their protective case. If sand does get into your devices, contact your hearing care professional for assistance rather than attempting to clean internal components yourself.

Protect Them from Heat and Humidity

Just like other electronics, hearing aids don't respond well to excessive heat. Never leave them in a parked car or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Store them in a cool, shaded location whenever possible. If you're spending time outdoors, wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth at the end of the day to remove perspiration and moisture.

Wearing a hat can also help shield your devices from direct sunlight while keeping you more comfortable on hot summer days.

Use a Dehumidifier Overnight

One of the simplest ways to extend the life of your hearing aids during the summer is to use a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying kit.

Humidity, perspiration, and changing temperatures can introduce moisture into your devices even when they never come into direct contact with water. Placing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight helps remove trapped moisture and keeps them performing their best.

Think of it as a nightly reset for your hearing aids, especially after a day spent at the beach, on the golf course, or out on the water.

Apply Sunscreen First

Sunscreen, lotion, and insect repellent can leave residue that clogs microphones and other small openings.

Apply these products before inserting your hearing aids, allow them to absorb fully, and wash your hands before handling your devices. At the end of the day, give your hearing aids a quick wipe-down before storing them.

Enjoy Every Sound of Summer

A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to protecting your hearing aids. By keeping them away from water, sand, and excessive heat, and by using a protective case and dehumidifier, you can enjoy everything a Cape Cod summer has to offer.

From conversations on the deck and boat rides with friends to the sound of waves rolling onto the beach, properly cared-for hearing aids help ensure you don't miss a moment.

For professional hearing aid cleanings, maintenance, or personalized hearing care advice, visit Advanced Audiology Associates at hearingonthecape.com to learn more or schedule an appointment.