Summer Hearing Care Tips: Protect Your Hearing All Season Long
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything the season has to offer. While you're protecting your skin from the sun, don't forget that your ears and hearing need a little extra care too.
Here are our top summer hearing care tips to help keep your ears healthy and your hearing aids performing their best all season long.
Protect Your Hearing from Loud Summer Activities
Summer can often mean more concerts, festivals, sporting events, and power tools around the house. While these activities are enjoyable, prolonged exposure to loud sounds can cause permanent damage to your hearing.
To protect your hearing:
Wear earplugs in loud environments (i.e., concerts, races, or when using loud equipment).
Children's ears are especially sensitive to loud sounds.
Give your ears regular breaks from loud environments.
Keep a safe distance from especially loud sounds such as speakers or fireworks.
Remember, hearing damage is permanent but preventable.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
Most modern hearing aids are designed with active lifestyles in mind and offer excellent resistance to moisture, sweat, and dust. While they aren't waterproof and shouldn't be worn while swimming or showering, their water-resistant design helps protect them from everyday summer activities like exercising, gardening, or spending time outdoors on humid days.
If you wear hearing aids:
Remove them before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub.
Dry your devices with a soft cloth if they become damp from sweat or humidity.
If applicable, leave the battery door open overnight to allow moisture to escape.
If your hearing aids are rechargeable, make sure the charging contacts stay clean and dry.
Store your devices in a cool, dry place - not in direct sunlight or a hot vehicle.
Be Aware of Wax Buildup
Warmer weather or increased sweating can sometimes contribute to cerumen (earwax) becoming softer and moving within the ear canal. For hearing aid users, wax can also block microphones or receivers, affecting sound quality.
Signs of excess wax include:
Reduced hearing or muffled sounds.
Earache or discomfort.
Itching inside the ear.
A feeling of fullness or pressure.
Reduced hearing aid performance.
In some cases, earwax can be managed at home. In others, professional removal may be required.
To learn more about managing earwax at home - click here.
Protect Your Ears from the Sun
Your ears can get sunburned too! The outer ear is one of the most commonly missed areas when applying sunscreen.
Remember to:
Apply sunscreen to the tops and backs of your ears.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat when spending extended time outdoors.
Take extra care if you wear hearing aids or glasses, a sunburn can make these areas sensitive and uncomfortable.
Travel Smart with Your Hearing Aids
Planning a summer getaway? A little preparation can help avoid unexpected issues.
Pack:
Your charger or extra batteries.
Cleaning tools.
Domes (if applicable).
Wax filters.
A protective case if you plan to take your hearing aids out.
If your devices are rechargeable, you can leave them in their charger.
Enjoy summer, without missing a moment.
Healthy hearing helps you enjoy every moment.
By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect your ears, hearing, and keep your hearing aids working their best all summer long.
If you have questions about your hearing, hearing aids, or hearing protection, our team is here to help!
Contact us to schedule a hearing assessment, hearing aid clean and check, or to learn more about custom hearing protection for all of your summer activities.
