Hearing Aids in Heat, Sweat and Humidity: Care Tips for a Hot Climate
Hearing aids are small electronic devices that sit on or in the ear, so they are exposed to sweat, humidity and heat every day. In a hot, humid climate such as Muscat's long summers, moisture is one of the most common reasons hearing aids start to crackle, sound weak or cut out.
The good news is that a few simple habits make a real difference: wipe the aids daily, keep them away from direct heat, store them in their case or charger overnight, and protect them during sport, at the beach and around water. If problems continue, a professional check can catch moisture damage early.
Why do heat and humidity affect hearing aids?
Hearing aids contain microphones, a receiver, a battery and circuitry, all packed into a very small space. Sweat and humid air can gradually find their way into openings such as the microphone ports, the battery compartment and the sound outlet. Sweat also contains salt, which can leave deposits as it dries. Very high temperatures can be hard on batteries and on the materials of the case and tubing.
Many hearing aids today have some resistance to moisture and dust, but resistant does not mean waterproof. Your user instructions will say what your particular device can tolerate.
Daily habits for a hot climate
Wipe the aids every day
At the end of the day, wipe the hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth or a cleaning wipe recommended by your clinic. Pay attention to the areas that touch your skin. Avoid alcohol, household cleaners and water unless your instructions say otherwise.
Store them properly overnight
Keep the aids in their case or charger when you are not wearing them, rather than on a bathroom shelf or a windowsill. For disposable-battery aids, open the battery door at night so air can circulate, as many clinics recommend. For rechargeable aids, a dedicated charger such as the Danavox desktop charger gives them a safe place to rest and charge.
Keep them away from heat
- Do not leave hearing aids in a parked car, on the dashboard or in a bag in direct sun.
- Keep them away from stoves, heaters and hair dryers.
- Do not try to dry them with a hair dryer, an oven or a microwave.
Protect them from water
- Remove hearing aids before showering, swimming, or using a steam room or sauna.
- Put them in their case before you go into the sea or a pool, and keep the case in a shaded bag.
- Apply sunscreen, hair products and sprays before you put your aids in, and let them dry first.
Manage sweat during exercise and outdoor work
If you exercise or work outdoors, wipe around your ears during breaks. Some people find a soft sweatband helpful. Ask at your fitting appointment about accessories designed to protect hearing aids during activity.
Consider a drying routine
Drying kits and electronic dryers are widely used to help remove moisture overnight. Use only products suitable for hearing aids, and follow the instructions for your device, as some rechargeable aids should not go in certain dryers. Your audiologist can advise what suits your model.
Signs that moisture may be affecting your aids
- Crackling, static or distorted sound
- Sound that fades in and out, especially after time outdoors
- Weaker sound even with a fresh battery or full charge
- Condensation droplets inside the tubing of a behind-the-ear aid
- Batteries that seem to run down unusually quickly
If you notice any of these, dry the aids gently and follow the steps in our checklist for a hearing aid that sounds weak or silent.
A routine for the summer months
- Morning: put on sunscreen and hair products first, then insert the aids.
- During the day: avoid leaving the aids in the car or in direct sun; wipe away sweat during breaks.
- Around water: remove the aids and keep them in a closed case in the shade.
- Evening: wipe the aids, check the wax guards and domes, then place them in the case, dryer or charger.
When to see a specialist
Book a visit if:
- Crackling, cutting out or weak sound continues after drying the aids.
- Your hearing aid was dropped in water or soaked.
- You see corrosion, residue or damage around the battery compartment or charging contacts.
- The tubing often fills with condensation.
- You would like advice on drying products or protective accessories.
If problems continue, you can book an appointment online or contact us so our team can advise on the next step. You can also read about our Danavox hearing aid fitting service.
Frequently asked questions
Are hearing aids waterproof?
Most hearing aids are water-resistant rather than waterproof. They can usually cope with everyday sweat and light rain, but they should not be worn in the shower, the sea or a pool. Check your user instructions for your device's specific guidance.
Should I leave hearing aids in the car?
No. A parked car can become very hot in summer, and heat can harm batteries and other parts. Keep your hearing aids with you, in their case, and out of direct sun.
Do drying kits help?
Many people find that drying kits or electronic dryers help remove moisture overnight, especially in hot and humid weather or for people who sweat a lot. Use products designed for hearing aids and check that they are suitable for your model, particularly if your aids are rechargeable.
Related reading
- Everyday Care for Your Hearing Aids
- Hearing Aid Sounds Weak or Silent? A Step-by-Step Checklist
- Hearing Aid Batteries and Charging: Habits That Help Them Last
Sources
This article is general information and does not replace advice from a qualified professional.