Winter Sounds You Don’t Want to Miss:

How to Keep Your Hearing Aids Performing Their Best

Winter has a way of slowing the world down. Mornings feel quieter, evenings come earlier, and familiar sounds take on a different kind of warmth. Maybe it’s the soft hush of snowfall, the crackle of a fireplace, or the way a familiar holiday song echoes through the house. For many, it’s the laughter of a family gathering in the living room or the simple comfort of shared conversations over a warm meal.

These are the moments that make the season meaningful — and the moments you deserve to hear clearly.

But as beautiful as winter can be, cold temperatures, moisture, and shifting indoor environments can create challenges for hearing aids. However, with a bit of awareness and a few simple habits, you can keep your devices performing their best so you never miss the sounds that matter most.

The Sounds of Winter Matter More Than You Realize

Even the quietest days of the season are full of memorable sounds. Grandchildren running across the living room, mugs clinking during family dinners, holiday concerts, movie nights, or that unmistakable crunch of snow under your boots — winter has its own soundtrack.

Consistent use of hearing aids brings these experiences to life. Clear hearing keeps you engaged, connected, and present in the moments that make winter feel special. And when your devices are performing well, you get to enjoy each of these sounds with clarity and confidence.

How Winter Weather Can Affect Hearing Aids

How Winter Weather Can Affect Hearing Aids:

Cold Temperatures

Batteries can drain faster in the cold, and internal components may respond more slowly.

Moisture & Condensation

Going from a cold car or an outdoor walk into a warm building can introduce moisture into the device. Snow, rain, and humidity can also affect performance.

Dry Indoor Air

Heaters and fireplaces can dry the ear canal, sometimes affecting comfort or altering the texture of earwax.

Winter Accessories

Hats, scarves, and ear-warmers can press against microphones, muffle sound, or accidentally dislodge devices.
These challenges are common but manageable with a few intentional habits.

Your Winter Hearing Care Checklist

These simple steps can help protect both your hearing aids and your hearing health throughout the season:

1. Use a dehumidifier nightly
Drying your hearing aids each night helps reduce condensation and keeps internal components performing reliably.

2. Keep spare batteries warm
Cold temperatures drain battery life quickly—store extras in a pocket or a warm inside layer rather than a cold bag or car.

3. Choose hearing-aid-friendly winter gear
Look for soft, loose-fitting hats or headbands that don’t press directly on microphones.

4. Wipe moisture away after coming indoors
A quick wipe can prevent moisture buildup from snow, rain, or humidity changes.

5. Stay consistent with daily wear
Even quiet winter days are full of sounds worth hearing and keeping your devices in means staying connected to the world around you.

6. Schedule a winter hearing aid check-up
A seasonal cleaning, adjustment, or moisture assessment ensures your devices are ready for everything winter brings.

Little habits go a long way in keeping the season sounding crisp, clear, and enjoyable. And once your hearing aids are protected from the elements, you’re free to focus on what winter is really about — connection, comfort, and the moments that make this time of year special.

Keep the Season Clear and Connected

Winter is full of traditions, gatherings, and small moments that deserve your full attention. Whether it’s the joy in your grandchild’s voice, the rhythm of your favorite holiday song, or the calm stillness of a snowy morning, staying connected to these sounds can make the season richer.

At Salem Audiology Clinic, we’re here to make sure your hearing aids continue to support every memory and every conversation. With proper care, you can step confidently into the winter months knowing your devices and your hearing are ready for whatever the season brings.

If it’s been a while since your last visit, or if you’ve noticed changes in battery life, moisture, or sound quality, now is the perfect time for a seasonal check-up. Our team can clean, adjust, and fine-tune your hearing aids to ensure you get the most out of every winter moment.

Stay connected. Stay confident. And let the season sound as good as it feels.