If you have hearing aids, you’re no stranger to the problems posed by face masks since the advent of COVID-19. The elastic bands of most masks interfere with behind-the-ear hearing aid placement, making them especially uncomfortable and inconvenient.
The following are the best mask-wearing tips we’ve found for wearers of hearing aids.
The Proper Cloth Everyday Mask with over-the-head elastic straps.
1. Over or Behind the Head Mask Straps
Masks with elastic straps that bypass the ears and wrap around the back of the head are a great alternative to around-the-ear styles for hearing aid wearers. They eliminate ear discomfort and interference with hearing aids, and also allow the mask to be worn comfortably for extended periods of time. The mask in the photo above is the Proper Cloth Everyday Mask in the Over Head style, which can be found here.*
2. Mask Strap Extenders
Masks with around-the-ear straps can be converted into behind-the-head styles with strap extenders. Sometimes referred to as “ear savers,” which can be purchased online or made at home, these handy contraptions connect the straps and anchor them behind the head instead of behind the ears. You can use a piece of elastic, ribbon, or fabric to tie the straps together for the same result, too.
3. Tie Your Hair Back
If you have long hair, pull it back into a bun or ponytail and secure it with an elastic band to keep it from getting in the way of your mask straps and hearing aids. This will also make mask removal easier and reduce the chances that your hearing aids will get caught and fall out when you remove the mask.
4. Remove Your Mask Indoors in an Open Area
In case your hearing aids do fall out when you remove your mask, it’s a good idea to do so in an environment that will reduce the chances of losing your hearing aids. Removing your mask at home or indoors in an open area will allow you to see and retrieve fallen hearing aids easily and quickly.
*Our customers with hearing aids love our Everyday Mask!
“This mask is excellent. It fits great, the filter insert is effective without hindering my breathing, it does not fog my glasses, and it does not interfere with my hearing aids. This is the fifth mask I have tried in the last six months, and it is a keeper. I won’t be using the others.” – Douglas in San Jose, CA
“High quality, comfortable masks. The placement of the elastic bands works well for those with hearing aids.” – Deborah in Durham, NH
“I’d been looking for a mask that didn’t attach at the ears. I wear hearing aids and those elastic cords cause too much interference. I ordered the over-the-head style of The Everyday Mask in light gray. Best mask I’ve ever worn! My only regret is that I didn’t just buy three of them initially. Do yourself a favor and just add three to cart! You will not be disappointed.” – Ed in Flint, MI