Hearing aids are sensitive electronic instruments vulnerable to moisture, and it is generally not recommended to swim while wearing them. Water exposure is a common cause of damage to internal components, often leading to corrosion or short circuits. While modern devices feature moisture protection, this is primarily intended for everyday events like sweat or light rain, not for sustained submersion. Understanding the specific water resistance level of your device is important before considering any water activity.
Understanding Water Resistance Levels
A hearing aid’s ability to resist moisture is classified using the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system, an international standard that specifies how well a device is sealed against dust and liquids. The IP rating consists of two digits following the letters ‘IP,’ where the first digit indicates protection against solids (like dust and sand) and the second digit denotes protection against liquids. The liquid protection rating is the most relevant for swimming and ranges from 0 (no protection) to 9 (high-pressure, high-temperature jet sprays).
The highest IP rating currently available for most hearing aids is IP68. The “6” indicates the device is dust-tight, offering the highest level of protection against solid particles. The “8” signifies the device can withstand continuous immersion in water, often specified by the manufacturer as being submerged up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, though this can vary. Even with an IP68 rating, a device is considered water-resistant for accidental drops or brief splashes, not truly waterproof for extended swimming sessions.
Another common rating is IP67, which means the device is dust-tight but can only withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The term “water-resistant” does not equate to “waterproof” for swimming laps or prolonged aquatic activity. Seals and coatings, such as nano-coating technology, are designed to protect against daily moisture and humidity, not continuous pressure or chemical exposure from a pool or ocean.
Mandatory Steps Before Entering the Water
The safest practice for any hearing aid user, regardless of the device’s IP rating, is to remove the aids before engaging in water activities. Hearing aids should be stored in a dry, cool environment away from direct sunlight or the humidity of the pool deck or beach. A secure, protective case is the ideal storage solution to prevent accidental damage or loss while swimming.
For individuals who require hearing assistance near the water or for those concerned about water entering the ear canal, there are specialized accessories and protective measures. Custom-fitted swim earplugs, made from a mold of the ear canal, provide a secure seal to prevent water from entering the ear. This is particularly important for individuals with ear tubes or a history of ear infections, as it helps prevent conditions like swimmer’s ear.
Specialized accessories like water-resistant sleeves or headbands offer a minor layer of protection against splashes, sweat, or light spray. These sleeves are not a substitute for removing the aids before submersion but can be helpful for activities where light moisture is unavoidable. Water type also matters significantly; salt water is highly corrosive and leaves behind salt crystals that can block internal components, while chlorinated pool water can corrode the internal battery and damage the microphone or receiver.
What To Do If Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
If a hearing aid is accidentally exposed to water, immediate action can significantly reduce the potential for permanent damage. The first step is to turn the device off and remove the battery, as moisture can cause the battery to corrode and potentially damage the internal contacts. If the battery itself is wet, it should be discarded immediately.
After removing the power source, the exterior of the device should be gently wiped with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any visible surface moisture. The hearing aid should then be gently shaken to dislodge any water trapped inside, and the battery door should be left open to encourage air circulation. It is important to avoid using heat sources like a hairdryer or microwave, as the excessive heat can melt or warp the delicate internal components.
The most effective method for drying the device is to use a specialized electronic drying kit or a desiccant drying jar, which use heat or a moisture-absorbing agent like silica gel to draw out internal humidity. A common household remedy of placing the aid in uncooked rice is not recommended by many professionals, as rice dust and starch can enter the microphone ports or speaker and cause additional blockages. If the hearing aid still malfunctions after a full 24 to 48 hours of drying, the user should contact their audiologist or the manufacturer, as a professional assessment or repair may be necessary.