Are There Waterproof Hearing Aids?

From daily tasks like showering or doing the dishes to recreational activities like swimming, water is integral to our everyday lives. However, water exposure can damage many of the important electronic devices we rely on. This leaves many people wondering: are hearing aids waterproof?   

Well, thanks to advancements in hearing technology, there are waterproof hearing aids available today! In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about waterproof hearing aids and the different levels of water resistance. We also provide some helpful tips to protect your hearing aids from moisture damage.

Everything You Need to Know About Waterproof Hearing Aids

If you enjoy an active lifestyle, outdoor pursuits, or simply live in a humid place or anywhere prone to rain, waterproof hearing aids are essential. These devices are engineered to withstand water, sweat, and humidity without skipping a beat, so you can wear your hearing aids whenever and wherever you need them. 

For hearing aids to be considered waterproof, they must undergo rigorous testing and meet specific industry standards. Once tested, they are then given a special IP rating that indicates how effectively waterproof they are:

Ingress Protection (IP) Ratings

Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are a standardized system that designates the level of protection an electronic device offers against solid matter like dust and liquids like water. The IP code consists of the letters “IP” followed by two digits, and each digit represents a different level of protection:

• First Digit: Protection against solids/dust, rated on a scale from 0 to 6 (e.g.; 0 = no protection, 6 = dust-tight).
• Second Digit: Protection against liquid/water, rated on a scale from 0 to 9 (e.g.; 0 = no protection, 9 = protected against water at high pressures and temperatures). 

The higher each digit is in an IP rating, the more durable the device will be against dust and moisture. For hearing aids, understanding how to read an IP rating is essential for ensuring their durability and functionality in various conditions. 

Hearing Aid IP Ratings

A higher IP rating indicates that the hearing aid is better protected against moisture, dust, and other environmental factors, making it more suitable for outdoor activities or humid climates.

Can I Wear Waterproof Hearing Aids in the Shower?

Audibel hearing aids with an IP68 rating offer the highest level of water protection available. This means they are completely dustproof and can withstand continuous immersion in water up to 3 feet. This exceptional level of water resistance allows you to confidently wear your hearing aids in various wet environments without fear of damage. You can shower, sweat, drop them in water, or get caught in the rain without worry.  

However, it’s important to remember that while IP68 hearing aids are highly durable, no electronic device is indestructible. Always avoid intentional or prolonged water exposure and follow the manufacturer’s specific care instructions to ensure optimal longevity and functionality of your hearing aids. 

Are Waterproof Hearing Aids Worth It?

Water is an unavoidable part of everyday life. Despite our best efforts, mishaps like forgetting to remove your hearing aids before getting in the shower or getting caught without an umbrella in a downpour can happen.

Waterproof hearing aids are equipped with an extra level of protection, so you can rest assured knowing your hearing health investment will stay safe—even if they accidentally fall into the bathroom sink. 

How to Protect Your Hearing Aids from Moisture Damage

Whether your hearing aids are water-resistant or not, to ensure they stay in tip-top shape, it’s important to keep them clean and dry. Here are some tips to keep your hearing aids clean and protected from moisture damage: 

• Daily cleaning is key: Regularly wipe down your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth to remove earwax and perspiration.
• Use a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier: After cleaning them at the end of the day, place your hearing aids in a dehumidifier to dry them overnight.
• Open the battery compartment: Leave the battery compartment open overnight to allow any moisture to evaporate.
• Minimize direct water exposure: Remove your hearing aids before showering, swimming, or taking a bath, and never wear them in saunas or steam rooms.
• Be mindful of sweat: Consider removing your hearing aids before exercise to protect them from sweat. Or if you need them during your exercise, make sure to place them in a dehumidifier as soon as you are done.
• Consider waterproof options: If you live in a humid area, live an active lifestyle, or simply enjoy water activities, consult with your specialist about the best option for your needs. 

By following these tips, you can protect your hearing aids from moisture damage and preserve their lifespan for as long as possible. 

Discover the Latest Hearing Aid Technology at Audibel 

Audibel waterproof hearing aids have an IP68 rating which means they are dust-proof and can withstand immersion in water up to 3 feet deep without damage. As a result, you can confidently wear them in humidity, sudden downpours while sweating at the gym, or even after accidentally dropping them in shallow water.  

When it comes to finding the best hearing aids for your needs, the Audibel specialists are here to help. Visit any of our hearing clinics located across the Nation to demo our latest hearing aid technology for free.