How to Protect Your Hearing Aids at the Beach
A beach day is a perfect way to relax, but for those who wear hearing aids, the combination of saltwater, sand, heat, and sunscreen can be a dangerous mix. Without proper precautions, a fun seaside adventure can quickly turn into a costly repair or replacement. The good news? With smart planning, you can confidently enjoy the beach while keeping your hearing aids safe, dry, and performing their best.
Why the Beach Can Be Risky for Hearing Aids
From corrosive saltwater to gritty sand and intense sunlight, beach environments are filled with potential hazards for sensitive hearing aid electronics. While many modern devices have some degree of water and dust resistance, they are not designed to handle prolonged exposure to these elements. Understanding the main threats is the first step toward preventing damage.
The Perils of Water and Sand
Saltwater is especially harmful because the salt crystals left behind after evaporation can corrode internal components. Even minimal exposure can affect performance if not addressed quickly. For those who spend a lot of time near the ocean, it’s worth noting that some hearing aids are much safer in salt water than others, offering extra peace of mind for active lifestyles.
- Remove hearing aids before swimming—whether in the ocean, a pool, or even wading in shallow water.
- Use a waterproof, crushproof case and keep it inside a beach bag or cooler when not wearing your devices.
- If your hearing aids get wet, immediately turn them off, remove the batteries or open the battery door, pat them dry, and place them in a desiccant jar or portable dryer.
Sand is another hidden danger. Tiny grains can lodge in microphone ports, receivers, or battery compartments, making them difficult to clean without professional tools.
- Never set hearing aids directly on towels, beach chairs, or picnic tables—sand can cling and migrate into the device.
- Carry a brightly colored case so it’s easy to spot if dropped in the sand.
Managing Heat and Sunscreen Exposure
Electronics and high heat don’t mix. Direct sunlight or a parked car can push internal temperatures above 120°F (49°C), warping plastic and damaging delicate circuitry.
- Never leave hearing aids in a hot car or exposed on a towel in direct sun.
- When not wearing them, keep them shaded in a beach bag, under an umbrella, or in a cooler compartment (inside a sealed case to avoid condensation).
Sunscreen and lotion are also risky because oils and chemicals can seep into microphone ports and compromise performance.
- Apply sunscreen at least 10 minutes before putting in your hearing aids to allow absorption and drying.
- Avoid aerosol sprays—overspray can easily coat your devices even from several feet away. Learn more about sprays and hearing aids.
Moisture and Sweat Protection Tips
Even if you avoid swimming, perspiration from heat and activity can introduce damaging moisture.
- Use a hearing aid dryer nightly to remove sweat and humidity.
- Carry a portable drying jar for quick moisture removal while on the go.
- Consider sweatbands, hearing aid sleeves, or moisture-resistant covers for extra protection.
| Beach Precaution | Recommended? |
|---|---|
| Remove hearing aids before swimming | ✔️ Yes |
| Store in waterproof case | ✔️ Yes |
| Leave hearing aids in hot car | ❌ No |
| Apply sunscreen while wearing hearing aids | ❌ No |
| Use hearing aid dryer at night | ✔️ Yes |
Consider Hearing Aid Covers or Sleeves
Hearing aid covers act as a protective barrier against sand, dust, and sweat. They’re lightweight, moisture-resistant, and available in multiple sizes to fit behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) models.
Daily Maintenance After a Beach Trip
After returning from the beach, inspect your hearing aids for any debris or moisture. Wipe them gently with a microfiber cloth, use a cleaning brush for microphone ports, and store them overnight in a dryer. Regular professional cleanings can help extend their lifespan.
Backup Hearing Aids and Battery Care
If you visit the beach frequently, keeping a backup pair ensures you’re never without amplification if your primary pair is damaged. Also, remember that wet batteries can leak or corrode—remove them if your aids get wet and store spares in a waterproof container.
When in Doubt, Ask Your Audiologist
Your audiologist can recommend moisture-resistant hearing aids or accessories designed for active, outdoor lifestyles. They can also teach you the best post-beach cleaning techniques to ensure optimal device performance.
Conclusion
With preparation, protection, and proper maintenance, you can enjoy every moment of your beach trip without putting your hearing aids at risk. And if you want even greater peace of mind, consider upgrading to waterproof hearing aids, which are far better suited for humid, salty environments. Treat your devices with care, and they’ll keep delivering the sounds of summer—year after year.