6 Heatwave Essentials for Hearing Aid & Cochlear Implant Users
How to Protect Your Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implant Processors During Hot Weather
We're experiencing another heatwave in the UK, and while you're reaching for the sun cream and water bottle, don't forget about your hearing technology!
Hot weather, sweat, humidity and increased outdoor activity can all affect the performance of hearing aids and cochlear implant processors. Moisture can build up inside your devices, sun cream can block microphones, and active summer days can increase the risk of hearing aids becoming loose or damaged.
Fortunately, a few simple accessories and care routines can help you to keep your hearing devices comfortable, protected and performing at its best all summer (and all year round!).
Here are our top heatwave essentials for hearing aid and cochlear implant users.
1. Cleaning Wipes
One of the most common issues for hearing devices in the summer is a build-up of sweat, sun cream, dirt and everyday grime.
Regular cleaning helps keep hearing aids and cochlear implant processors hygienic, comfortable, and functioning correctly. During periods of hot weather, it's worth cleaning your devices more frequently than usual, especially after spending time outdoors.
2. Hearing Aid Drying Kits
Heat and humidity often mean more moisture, and moisture is one of the biggest causes of hearing aid performance issues.
Using a hearing aid drying kit overnight helps remove excess moisture from hearing aids, earmoulds and cochlear implant processors. This simple routine can help improve reliability and reduce the risk of moisture-related problems.
If you're spending lots of time outdoors, exercising or travelling during the summer, a drying kit is an essential step in your hearing aid care routine.
3. Comfort Cream for Earmoulds
Warm weather can sometimes make earmoulds feel less comfortable, particularly if you're sweatier than usual!
Comfort creams can help earmoulds slide into place more easily while creating a comfortable, secure fit throughout the day. They can also help reduce irritation caused by repeated insertion and removal.
For hearing aids with custom earmoulds, a small tube of comfort cream can make a huge difference during heatwaves.
4. A Protective Hearing Aid Storage Box
Whether you're heading to the beach, swimming pool, or a family barbeque, there will be times when you need to remove your hearing device.
A protective storage box provides a safe place to store your hearing aids when they're not being worn. A simple storage box can help protect devices from sand, dust, sun cream, accidental damage and other common summer mishaps.
Never leave your hearing aids or cochlear implant equipment exposed to direct sunlight or inside a hot car, as excessive heat can damage sensitive electronic components.
5. Retainers and Safety Clips
Summer often means more outdoor activities, more movement and more opportunities for hearing aids to become loose.
This is particularly true for children, who might spend more time running, climbing and playing outdoors during school holidays. Combined with increased sweating, hearing aids can occasionally slip or fall off.
Retainers and safety clips help keep hearing aids securely attached, reducing the risk of loss or damage. They're a simple but effective solution for anyone who wants extra peace of mind while enjoying summer activities.
6. Ear Gear Hearing Aid Covers
If you're planning to be active outdoors, Ear Gear covers can provide an extra layer of protection for hearing aids and cochlear implant processors.
Designed to help shield your device from sweat, dust and everyday outdoor conditions, Ear Gear is particularly useful for the hot weather.
Some Ear Gear models also include integrated retainer clips, helping to keep hearing tech secure while you're on the move.
Bonus Resource: Our Hearing Aid Care Guide
Looking for more expert advice on hearing aid care and maintenance?
Our new Hearing Aid Care Guide is packed with practical information on cleaning, maintenance, troubleshooting and everyday care. Whether you're new to hearing aids or have been wearing them for years, or perhaps you're caring for someone else who uses them - this guide is designed to help users get the most from their hearing aids.
From understanding common issues to establishing effective care routines, it's a handy resource for anyone who wants to keep their hearing devices performing at their best.
Enjoy the sunshine - not the hearing aid hassles!
Hot weather doesn't have to cause problems for your hearing technology.
By cleaning devices regularly, removing moisture, and protecting them from the elements - you can help ensure your hearing aids or cochlear implant processors continue to perform reliably throughout the summer.
Get into the habit of giving your hearing technology a quick daily check, and with a few simple precautions, your devices can stay comfortable, protected and ready for all your summer adventures.