There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach. It’s practically synonymous with relaxation. But if you rely on hearing aids, the beach may present some unwanted stress. 

This article will:  

• help you understand the risks beach conditions pose to hearing aids  
• share tips for how best to enjoy a day at the beach without worrying about your hearing aids. 

Beach risks for hearing aids 

We all know that going to the beach carries a certain amount of risk — that’s why many of them have lifeguards and why we pack sunscreen. But sunscreen won’t protect your hearing aids from the many potential hazards they face amidst the sand and surf. That’s up to you. 

Knowing the dangers is the first step. Here are some of the biggest threats to your hearing aids at the beach: 

• Moisture: Hearing aids contain delicate electronic components that can be seriously damaged by excess moisture, both from the lake or ocean and from your own sweat. 
• Sand: If you’ve ever tried to eat a PB&J at the beach, you know that sand gets everywhere no matter how hard you try to keep it out. If too much gets into sensitive parts of your hearing aids, it could cause a clog. 
• Heat: In addition to causing more sweat, high temperatures can also directly damage some hearing aids by warping or simply overheating electronic components. 

Beach day tips for people with hearing loss 

No matter how much you prepare or how vigilant you are, accidents can happen. For the more risk-averse among us, using older hearing aids or cheaper over the counter (OTC) alternatives on beach day may be the way to go. 

You can also purchase waterproof hearing aid covers to lessen the likelihood of damage to your hearing aids. Clips and lanyards can likewise prevent them from falling out and into the sand. 

If you do decide to wear your hearing aids to the beach, here are a few steps you might want to take to keep them safe and prevent damage while still enjoying the water, sand, and sun. 

Protecting your hearing aids at the beach 

Of course, just because there are dangers doesn’t mean you have to avoid the beach entirely. With the proper precautions, mindfulness, and clean-up routines, you can rest assured that your hearing aids will survive a trip to the beach. 

Pre-Beach 

It’s a good idea to make sure your hearing aids are in good shape prior to visiting the beach. Using a dehumidifier on them the night before to remove any existing moisture in the tubes can help prevent additional condensation once you’re at the beach.  

You should also pack a protective storage case and some simple cleaning supplies in your beach bag. Don’t plan on doing any in-depth cleaning surrounded by sand, but a microfiber towel and a brush for clearing major clogs can’t hurt. 

At the Beach 

Apart from looking stylish and preventing sunburn, a wide-brimmed hat can protect your hearing aids from wind-blown sand and heat from direct sunlight. You might also consider wearing a sweatband to keep sweat from getting into your hearing aids.  

If you choose to take your hearing aids out at any point, make sure to put them directly in the protective case or a sealed container. When the beachballs start flying, you don’t want your hearing aids to accidentally get knocked into the sand or water. 

Post-Beach  

Even if you took all of the precautions listed above and avoided accidental overexposures to the main threats, you should still clean your hearing aids after any trip to the beach. This includes cleaning the surfaces with a soft cloth or brush, clearing out the tubes, and using an overnight dehumidifier to remove built-up moisture.  

If you notice serious blockages or any other issues with your hearing aids after a beach day, contact your audiologist for more detailed guidance. 

Recap: hearing aid tips for the beach

Few summertime activities match a nice day at the beach. Don’t let hearing loss keep you from catching some rays in the sand and surf. With the proper precautions, you can kick back and enjoy some of the best sounds summer has to offer.