Summer brings warmth and sunshine to many states, along with a healthy dose of humidity. If you’ve worn hearing aids for any length of time, you know that moisture is the number one enemy of sensitive electronics. Although new technology continues to improve their durability and resistance to environmental moisture, hearing aids still require special care if you live or vacation in a humid climate during the summer months. The following advice for care and maintenance will keep your hearing aids functioning their best so you can keep enjoying those long, steamy summer days and treks through the Everglades.

Head coverings

Wearing a hat in the rain is a good way to keep moisture out of hearing aids, so this might seem like a good solution for keeping out humidity, as well. Think again. In a warm, humid environment, a close-fitting hat actually increases and traps harmful moisture closer to your hearing aids. When dealing with humidity, it’s better to choose a hat that allows more air circulation, or avoid hats altogether.

Hearing Aid Covers

If you choose the right accessories, covering your hearing aids to protect them from humidity will still allow air and sound to enter freely. Hearing aid manufacturers offer hearing aid covers, such as sweatbands and water-resistant sheaths, which can provide special protection during activities in humid environments. Talk to your hearing healthcare professional about which accessories are most compatible with your hearing aid type and model.

Drying: Frequency and Quality

Lastly, it’s imperative to dry out your hearing aids more frequently and thoroughly between uses. Most hearing healthcare professionals recommend drying them every night, especially in humid climates. The two most popular options for drying are dry air kits (desiccant jars) and electric dryers. Dry air kits contain a silica gel that pulls the moisture out of your hearing aids, while electric and battery-powered dryers use fans and other methods to evaporate moisture. Dry air kits are less expensive, but don’t work as effectively in areas with high humidity unless they’re used for longer periods of time. The more humid your climate is in the summer, the more you should increase the frequency and quality of your hearing aid drying devices.

Stepping on the beach doesn’t have to be a headache with your hearing devices. Just add a few extra accessories to your summer shopping list and hearing aid care at the beach will be a breeze!