How to Stop Your Hearing Aids Falling Off: Retainers, Clips & Other Solutions
If you've ever taken a jumper off and accidentally taken your hearing aid with it, you're not alone!
We were recently reminded of just how easily it can happen when our Managing Director, David, lost one of his hearing aids after taking his jumper off while he was out and about. Not exactly the sort of accessory you want to leave behind!
It got us thinking - there are actually lots of different ways to help keep hearing aids secure, whether you're dealing with energetic children, running and exercising, changing clothes or simply have hearing aids that have a habit of making a bid for freedom.
It's worth thinking about, because dropping a hearing aid isn't just inconvenient, it can get damaged or even worse (and in David's case) disappear completely!
So, if you've found that your hearing aids could do with a little help staying put, here are some options to consider.
Hearing aid clips: a simple safety net
One of the most straightforward options is a hearing aid retention clip. These attach to the hearing aid and then clip onto clothing, creating a safety line between the hearing aid and the wearer.
If the hearing aid gets knocked off, the clip prevents it from hitting the floor or getting lost. This makes them particularly popular for young children who may be more likely to know or pull their hearing aids off while they're playing.
There are plenty of options available, including some fun designs that children might enjoy wearing, such as Phonak's Leo the Lion hearing aid clip, or this colourful clip from Deafmetal.
Hearing aid retainers for active ears
If the problem isn't just where the hearing aid lands when it falls, but keeping it firmly in place in the first place, something like the Hucki hearing aid retainer may be a better option.
Made from stretchy plastic, the Hucki retainer fits snuggly around the ear, helping to hold the hearing aid securely in position. It's particularly useful for young children but there's no reason adults can't use one too.
A retainer can be handy for anyone who is running, playing sport or generally being active. If your hearing aids have a habit of working themselves loose during exercise, something as simple as a retainer can give you a bit more reassurance that they're going to stay put.
Hearing aid jewellery: practical and stylish
If a traditional clip or retainer isn't quite your style, there are some much more fashionable options available.
Deafmetal hearing aid jewellery combines retention with style, so your hearing aids can become part of your look.
The range includes chains, safety clips, ear cuffs and earrings, with different ways of attaching the jewellery to your ear. Importantly, not all of the options require a piercing!
Ear Gear: more than just a way to stop them falling off
If you're active, your hearing aids falling off might not be your only concern. Sweat, moisture, dust and wind can all be things worth thinking about too.
That's where Ear Gear comes in. There are corded options that help keep your hearing aid secure, as well as versions that attach to glasses for a comfortable way to keep them in place.
Ear Gear also protects against sweat, moisture, dirt and dust, while also reducing wind noise. That makes them particularly useful for anyone who spends a lot of time running, walking, cycling or exercising outdoors.
Ear Gear is a bit of an all-rounder, rather than just solving the one problem.
Sticky pads and tape: surprisingly simple solutions
Sometimes you don't need a clip or a cord - just a little extra grip.
Hearing aid sticky pads can help keep hearing aids securely positioned against the skin. Phonak Stick n Stay pads are specifically designed for this purpose and are a useful option when hearing aids have a tendency to move around.
Another surprisingly popular solution is hypoallergenic toupee tape. Yes, really! Toupee tape is designed for use against the skin, making it perfectly suitable for creating a temporary, extra-secure hold.
Which hearing aid retention option is right for you?
It generally depends on why your hearing aids are coming loose in the first place.
If you're buying for a child: a retention clip or retainer can help prevent hearing aids being lost during all that running, jumping and exploring.
If you're a runner or generally active: a retainer can help keep your hearing aids firmly in place, while Ear Gear can add protection from sweat and moisture.
If jumpers are your nemesis: a retention clip could provide a useful safety net for those moments when your hearing aid gets caught as you're getting changed.
If you're outdoors a lot: Ear Gear can help with retention while also protecting against moisture, dirt and wind.
If you want something discreet: sticky pads or skin-safe tape can provide extra grip without adding a visible clip.
If you'd rather make a feature of your hearing aids: Deafmetal jewellery combines security with style.
Don't wait until a hearing aid goes missing
If your hearing aids have a habit of making a bid for freedom, you don't necessarily have to put up with it. A simple retainer, clip, adhesive or protective accessory could help prevent an expensive accident - and save you from that horrible moment of realising you've dropped a hearing aid and can't remember where.
Whether you're looking for something for a young child, an active adult, outdoor enthusiast or simply someone who regularly knocks their hearing aids off, there are plenty of options to help keep your hearing aids safe.
Take a look at our range to find a solution that works for you.