Hearing aids, like any valuable electronic devices, require a little extra care to keep them in tip-top shape. If you’re among the 15% of U.S. adults with hearing loss, you may wonder how you can best care for your hearing aids while sleeping, showering and exercising. Here’s a simple guide to help you know when and when not to wear your devices, along with a quick end-of-the-day routine to keep them in good shape.
1. Exercise: Listen While You Move
Whether you’re at the gym, jogging around Jaycee Park or following along with an online workout, hearing aids can add to your experience by connecting to audio sources like music or virtual classes and amplifying sounds like passing runners or fellow gym-goers. A few things to keep in mind when exercising include:
- Dab your sweat with a towel before it reaches your ears
- Remove your hearing aids before swimming
- Attach behind-the-ear hearing aids to your shirt with a clip or lanyard before high-intensity exercise
2. Shower: Keep Them Dry
Even if your hearing aids are marketed as water-resistant, it’s still a good idea to remove them before hopping in the shower. Humidity and moisture can negatively impact the sensitive components inside the hearing aids, leading to malfunctions.
If you accidentally wear your devices into the shower, remove them as soon as you notice, wipe them down and place them in a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying jar to draw out moisture. If you notice sound distortion, call your hearing aid specialist for a service or repair.
3. Sleep: Give Your Ears a Break
Some people worry they won’t hear alarms or other sounds if they remove their hearing aids before sleeping. While it might feel convenient to wear your hearing aids as you drift off to sleep, it’s best to remove them to prevent loss or damage. Removing your hearing aids nightly also gives your ears the time they need to breathe!
4. Daily Maintenance: Caring for Your Hearing Aids
After a full day of use, it’s essential to clean and maintain your hearing aids to ensure their longevity. A few steps to add to your evening routine include:
- Gently wipe your hearing aids with a soft cloth to remove dirt, sweat and earwax
- Use a special hearing aid brush or tool to clean the nooks and crannies
- If necessary, use a dehumidifier or drying jar overnight to protect against moisture damage
- If your hearing aids are rechargeable, place them on their charger overnight
For expert advice on hearing aid care or to schedule a consultation, contact Aaron's Hearing Aid & Audiology Center today.