Tell Me About Hearing Aid Storage

Your hearing aids are valuable investments in your quality of life. Storing them properly when not in use is just as important as regular cleaning and maintenance. With two decades of working with patients in hearing care, we’ve seen how proper storage habits can significantly extend device lifespan and maintain optimal performance. Let’s explore the best ways to store and protect your hearing aids.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Heat, moisture, and dust are the main enemies of hearing aid performance. Exposure to these elements can damage delicate electronic components, corrode battery contacts, and lead to costly repairs. In addition, improper storage increases the risk of physical damage or loss of these small devices that cost thousands of dollars.

Poor storage habits often lead to shortened battery life and reduced sound quality. Many repair issues stem directly from storing hearing aids in bathrooms, pockets, or other unsuitable locations where they’re exposed to harmful conditions. Adopting good storage practices is a simple but effective way to protect your investment.

Choosing the Right Storage Case

A proper hearing aid case serves as both protection and a drying chamber. Look for cases with secure closures that shield devices from dust and moisture while preventing accidental opening. The interior should have soft padding to cushion against impacts if dropped.

Some advanced cases include built-in drying technology to remove moisture overnight. These specialized cases often feature silica gel packets or electronic dehumidifiers that draw out dampness. While basic cases come with your hearing aids, investing in a quality storage case with drying capabilities is worth considering for long-term protection.

Daily Storage Routine

At the end of each day, turn off your hearing aids and open the battery door completely. This simple step stops battery drain and allows air to circulate through the device. Then place them in their storage case in a safe location away from children, pets, and high-traffic areas where they might get knocked over.

Never store hearing aids in the bathroom, kitchen, or car. These locations experience extreme temperature changes and high humidity levels that damage electronic components. Instead, choose a bedroom nightstand or dresser drawer that maintains room temperature and low humidity. Consistent daily storage habits help prevent loss and extend battery life.

Managing Moisture and Humidity

Moisture is perhaps the greatest threat to hearing aid function. Sweat, rain, and humid environments can seep into small openings and damage internal components. Using a dehumidifier or drying system removes this harmful moisture during overnight storage.

Electric dehumidifiers or drying kits provide the most thorough drying, using gentle heat or UV light to eliminate moisture and kill bacteria. For a simpler option, desiccant dehumidifiers containing moisture-absorbing crystals work well but require regular replacement. To guarantee total moisture removal, think about prolonging the drying period during particularly humid seasons.

Travel and Temporary Storage

When traveling, maintain your storage routine despite the change in environment. Pack your regular storage case and include a backup case for potential loss. Keep hearing aids in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures in cargo holds.

For temporary storage during activities like swimming or showering, avoid wrapping hearing aids in tissues or placing them in pockets. Instead, use your storage case or a secure, dry container that can’t be mistaken for trash. Some patients find that small containers with secure lids work well for brief storage when the main case isn’t available.

Protecting Against Physical Damage

Store hearing aids with the battery door open, but avoid removing batteries completely unless you won’t use the devices for several days. This strategy prevents battery leakage while maintaining easy access when you need it. Always keep your hearing aids in their case, not loose on surfaces where they could fall or be crushed.

Handle hearing aids over soft surfaces when inserting or removing them. Many patients develop the habit of sitting down when handling their devices to prevent damage from accidental drops. Establishing consistent routines reduces the risk of misplacing these small but important devices.

Your hearing health depends on properly functioning devices. Reach out today to discuss personalized care recommendations for your specific hearing aids.