Despite being water-resistant to an extent, this does not automatically make all of the hearing aids out there waterproof in their entirety. While there are hearing aids that can handle sweat, rain, and even splashing of water, there are also hearing aids that need to be more protected against water. How water-resistant are your hearing aids?

In this guide, we are going to explain the different types of water-resistant ratings for hearing aids, what you should do when your hearing aids get wet, and how to protect them from moisture.

Are Hearing Aids Waterproof or Water-Resistant?

Two concepts that may sound similar, but which, in fact, mean something else. A water-resistant product refers to a product that was manufactured and tested to withstand some types of water contact under specific conditions. In accordance with the level of water resistance, it means splashing or temporary immersion.

The waterproof feature of a product means protection from water contact. But it does not exist any waterproof product from all water contacts.

In the case of hearing aids, the most important thing is not to confuse waterproof and water-resistant characteristics. Some hearing aids will be able to withstand exposure to moisture on a regular basis, but that doesn’t mean they can be used during swimming or showering.

What Do IP Ratings Mean for Hearing Aids?

When choosing hearing aids, there may be IP ratings that appear, such as IP67 and IP68. The term IP actually means “ingress protection.” IP is a rating that tells you how well the enclosure of the device can protect from dust and water.

The rating consists of two digits:

• First digit – protection from solid objects and dust
• Second digit – protection from water.

In case one of the digits is replaced by X, it simply means that no specific level of protection was specified. Examples of IP ratings include:

These classifications are defined by the IEC 60529 standard.

Does IP68 Mean Your Hearing Aids Are Waterproof?

It's not really the case. The IP68 designation means adequate protection from dust particles and passing the immersion tests. However, there are varying standards in the immersion tests among various manufacturers.

The reason is that if the hearing aid survives the immersion test doesn't necessarily mean that it is waterproof enough to survive swimming, hot baths, contact with soap or even salt water. The key point here is that the higher the IP rating is, the better the protection will be.

What Do You Do When Your Hearing Aids Get Wet?

Sometimes things happen. You might be taken by surprise by rain, spill water onto your hearing aids, or simply forget to take them off when you wash your face. In any case, do not panic – what counts is how you will deal with the situation.

Step 1: Take Off Your Hearing Aids and Turn Them Off

Remove your hearing aids immediately and turn them off. In the case of replaceable batteries, remove the batteries as directed by the manufacturer. When it comes to rechargeable hearing aids, try to avoid putting the wet ones in the charging case because of the risks involved.

Step 2: Gently Remove Surface Moisture

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently remove any visible moisture from the hearing aid’s surface. Avoid using tissues or other objects to clean inside the microphones, speakers, and charging ports of the hearing aid. Never shake your hearing aid, as moisture might get stuck in places it is not supposed to go.

Step 3: Dry Them Using an Acceptable Procedure

If there is any way of drying hearing aids as recommended by your manufacturer, use that procedure to dry your hearing aids. If you live in a humid area, using an acceptable hearing aid dehumidifier or a drying system will be helpful. Do not use every drying process on all kinds of hearing aids. You must not use a hairdryer, microwave, or oven to dry your hearing aids.

Step 4: Check for Signs of Damage

After the devices have been properly dried in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, see if the devices are operating as usual.

The following are typical indicators:

• Reduced or muffled sound
• Erratic performance
• Strange noises
• Issues charging
• Problems turning on

Should any of the above occur, cease use of the devices and consult with the manufacturer or hearing health expert. Remember that even if the outer surfaces of the hearing aids feel dry, there could still be some moisture inside them.

If your hearing aids were immersed in water, especially salt water or swimming pool water, get professional help instead of frequently trying to turn the devices on to see if they work. For more information about hearing aid troubleshooting, see Johns Hopkins Medicine's hearing aid troubleshooting guide.

How to Protect Your Hearing Aids From Moisture

Taking care of your hearing aids does not mean you have to go through an elaborate process. There are some very simple ways that can be helpful in preventing your hearing aids from moisture.

1. Clean Your Hearing Aids Once You Take Them Off

Since hearing aids are in proximity to the body, they attract lots of moisture during the day when they are on. Once you take off your hearing aids, use a dry cloth to clean the exterior part of your hearing aids. In case you have been engaging in any physical activities, be sure to check if there is any moisture.

2. Store Them in a Dry Place

It is advisable to store your hearing aids in a dry place when they are not in use. Try not to leave them in places like bathrooms where moisture is likely to collect. In case you have high humidity levels or if you sweat a lot, then a hearing aid dryer would be of great help. However, in case you don't want to take the trouble of using a dryer, there are rechargeable hearing aids available which can make things much easier.

One such model is the Vuiwx 107 OTC Hearing Aid. This model comes with a charging box that includes built-in drying and disinfection features. You can charge and care for moisture in your hearing aids at the same time without having to use any additional device.

3. Keep Charging Contacts Dry

For rechargeable hearing aids, it is important that both the hearing aid and the charging contacts are dry when charging them. Do not put wet hearing aids into a charging case. Make sure that the charging case itself is kept clean and dry at all times and is not stored close to water or places where there is a lot of humidity.

4. Avoid Unnecessary Water Exposure

Although some hearing aids may be IP-rated, it does not mean that one should not take measures to limit water contact even further. It is advised to remove hearing aids during showering and swimming if the hearing aid manufacturer did not explicitly say that these hearing aids can be worn while doing such activities. 

What Should You Look for in Waterproof Hearing Aids?

If you are active or if you live in areas where humidity levels are high, then waterproofing can be an attribute worth looking at. When purchasing hearing aids, consider:

• IP rating: Does the company offer an authentic IP rating for dust and water resistance?
• Daily activity: Are those specifications of protection adequate for what you usually do?
• Maintenance: What procedures does the company recommend for cleaning and drying these aids?
• Warranty: Is water damage covered in this product warranty?

Waterproofing can certainly be helpful, although not the only one to look at. Sound performance, comfort, battery life, handling ease, and compatibility are all factors you will have to consider when comparing two hearing aid models.

Final Thoughts

Almost all contemporary hearing aids are moisture-resistant. But the resistance is limited, even in high-end products. Awareness of the level of resistance of your particular hearing aids, compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines on caring for these aids and what to do in case they get accidentally exposed to moisture will increase their resistance and help avoid damage. The critical issue is always to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines concerning specific models of hearing aids you use.