Tips for Keeping Hearing Aids Dry During Water Activities

Summer activities naturally involve more water and moisture than your hearing aids are designed to handle. Whether you’re sweating through a tennis match, getting splashed at a water park or caught in an unexpected afternoon thunderstorm, warm weather activities can put your devices at risk in ways you might not anticipate. Even seemingly dry activities like attending outdoor concerts or spending time on a boat deck can expose your hearing aids to humidity, sweat and occasional splashes that could cause problems. The last thing you want is to damage expensive equipment when you’re trying to enjoy yourself.

If you wear hearing aids, you shouldn’t have to choose between protecting your devices and participating in the summer activities you enjoy. With some basic preparation and awareness, you can take part in most water-related activities while keeping your hearing aids safe and functional. The key is understanding what situations pose the biggest risks to your devices and having practical strategies ready before you head out for the day. This way, you can focus on having fun rather than constantly worrying about whether your hearing aids are going to survive your summer plans.

Common Ways Moisture Reaches Hearing Aids During Water Activities

Moisture can reach your hearing aids in several ways during water activities. Even if you do not swim with your head underwater, your devices can still be exposed. Splashing from pools or lakes, or even a sudden rain shower, can send droplets onto your hearing aids. Humidity and sweat from hot weather or physical activity near water also add moisture that may get inside the device.

Sometimes, forgetting to remove hearing aids before swimming or showering leads to direct contact with water. Water trapped behind the ear after swimming can slowly seep into the device over time. Being aware of these situations helps you take simple steps to keep your hearing aids dry and working well during all kinds of water activities.

How Water Can Impact the Performance of Hearing Aids

Water can quickly interfere with how hearing aids function, even in small amounts. Moisture can disrupt the tiny components inside these devices, causing muffled sound, static or even preventing the device from turning on. Over time, repeated exposure to water can result in permanent damage, potentially rendering the hearing aid inoperable. Understanding these risks helps you take better care of your devices and avoid unexpected issues.

Several specific problems can arise when hearing aids are exposed to water. Corrosion of batteries and metal parts can occur, microphones or speakers may become blocked by trapped moisture, and the electronic circuits inside the device are at risk of shorting out. Reports from the industry show that approximately 20% of hearing aid repairs are linked to moisture damage. Being aware of these potential issues allows you to take steps to keep your hearing aids dry and functioning as they should, protecting both your investment and your ability to hear clearly.

Understanding Waterproof and Water-Resistant Hearing Aids

Waterproof and water-resistant hearing aids offer different levels of protection against moisture, which can help you use your devices in everyday activities with more confidence. Water-resistant hearing aids are built to handle small amounts of moisture, like sweat or light rain, but they are not designed to be submerged. Fully waterproof hearing aids, which are less common, can tolerate limited immersion for brief periods, yet even these devices are not recommended for full submersion. Recognizing the distinction between these types helps you know what activities are safe and which might put your devices at risk.

Even water-resistant hearing aids can be affected if exposed to too much moisture. Swimming, showering or heavy sweating can overwhelm the protective barriers inside the device. Seals and coatings are designed to reduce the risk of damage, but they are not invincible. Being aware of these limitations helps prevent malfunctions and permanent damage.

Manufacturers typically provide an Ingress Protection rating, or IP rating, which indicates the level of protection a hearing aid has against water and dust. A higher IP rating signals more protection, but it does not make a device fully waterproof. It is still not recommended to submerge any hearing aid, even those with higher IP ratings. Paying attention to these ratings and following the manufacturer’s guidelines ensures your hearing aids continue to perform as expected.

Even with water-resistant or waterproof features, regular care is still important. Wiping away moisture, storing devices in a dry environment and using protective covers when necessary can extend the life of your hearing aids. Knowing how your specific device handles water allows you to enjoy activities safely while reducing the risk of damage.

Safe Storage for Hearing Aids at Pools and Beaches

Keeping your hearing aids safe during water activities is essential. Waterproof cases provide a practical solution for protecting devices from water, sand and humidity while they are not in use. These cases help prevent accidental splashes, drops or exposure to dirt, which can damage the small, sensitive parts inside your hearing aids. Using a drying kit after water activities can also help remove any moisture that may have reached your devices before storing them.

It is important to find a consistent and secure spot for your hearing aids during water sports or beach outings. Leaving devices out in the open can expose them to splashes, humidity or accidental drops into the water. Waterproof pouches or cases that seal tightly and float if dropped are ideal for this purpose. Heat and direct sunlight can also affect hearing aids, potentially warping parts or draining batteries faster. Keeping your devices in a shaded area and a designated case or bag reduces these risks while making it easier to keep track of them during activities like kayaking, paddleboarding or beach visits.

What Accessories Should You Consider?

Drying kits are an important accessory to consider for protecting your hearing aids from moisture. These kits often include a small container with desiccant beads or a dehumidifying unit that gently draws out moisture from the device after exposure to sweat, humidity or accidental splashes. Using a drying kit regularly helps prevent corrosion, blocked microphones or speakers, and other issues that can reduce sound quality or shorten the lifespan of your devices.

Another useful accessory is a protective hearing aid cover or sweat guard. These small silicone or rubber covers fit over the device and create a barrier against moisture during physical activity or hot, humid weather. While they do not make the device waterproof, they can significantly reduce the risk of water-related damage and keep your hearing aids performing reliably. Combining these tools with careful handling after exposure helps maintain the longevity and function of your devices.

What to Do If Your Hearing Aids Get Wet

If your hearing aids get wet, it is important to act quickly to minimize damage. Remove the devices immediately and turn them off if possible. Take out the batteries to prevent short circuits and corrosion. Gently shake the hearing aids to remove excess water, but avoid using heat sources like hair dryers or ovens, as extreme heat can damage sensitive components.

After removing excess moisture, place your hearing aids in a drying kit or a sealed container with silica gel packets or a desiccant designed for electronics. Leave them in the drying environment for several hours or overnight to ensure all moisture is absorbed. Once fully dry, reinsert the batteries and check functionality. If you notice persistent muffled sound, static or other issues, contact an audiologist for inspection and possible repair to prevent long-term damage.

Warning Signs That Water May Have Damaged Your Hearing Aids

Water damage to hearing aids is not always immediately apparent, which makes it important to be aware of the warning signs. Even a small amount of moisture can affect delicate internal components, and problems may show up gradually. You might notice muffled or distorted sound, the device turning off unexpectedly or static and crackling noises. Volume controls may become unresponsive or battery life may drop much faster than usual.

Other subtle signs include the device feeling unusually warm, blocked microphones or speakers, or indicator lights not functioning as they normally do. Feedback may become louder than expected, programs or settings might reset on their own, and buttons may stop responding properly. Corrosion on battery contacts is another red flag that moisture has penetrated the device. Paying close attention to these warning signs after exposure to water can help you catch problems early, preventing further damage and ensuring your hearing aids continue to function effectively.

When You Should Contact an Audiologist After Water Exposure

If your hearing aids have been exposed to water and you notice problems like muffled sound, static or the device not turning on, reach out to our team for help. Quick action can prevent further damage and may save you from needing a full replacement.

Waiting too long could lead to more serious issues, like corrosion inside the device or permanent loss of function. Water damage can sometimes get worse over time, so getting professional help early can make a difference in how well your hearing aids continue to work.

Preparing for Vacations or Trips Where You Will Be Around Water Activities

Planning ahead helps keep your hearing aids safe when you know you will be near water during a vacation or trip. Packing the right supplies is key.

Bring a waterproof case or pouch to store your devices whenever you are not wearing them. It is also helpful to pack extra batteries and a drying kit in case your hearing aids get wet.

Check the weather forecast for your destination, as humidity and sudden rain can increase the risk of moisture exposure. Remember to remove your hearing aids before swimming, boating or taking part in any water activities. Careful preparation reduces the chances of damage so you can enjoy your trip with fewer worries about your devices.

Staying Confident with Hearing Aids Around Water

Planning ahead and using the right accessories can help you protect your hearing aids without feeling limited in what you do. Moisture can sneak in during the most unexpected moments, but when you know how to prevent damage, you can enjoy your summer with more confidence. From carrying a small drying kit to keeping protective sleeves or covers handy for active days, these small steps can make a big difference in keeping your devices working well through every warm-weather adventure.

If you are unsure which protection options will work best for your specific devices and lifestyle, we can help you find solutions that fit your needs. Contact Pathway Audiology in Big Spring, TX at 432-606-1933 to learn more about keeping your hearing aids in top condition all summer long. Together, we can make sure your devices are ready for every splash, sweat or storm the season might bring.