Hearing loss should not stop you and your loved one from enjoying water-based activities. Whether you are battling humidity or just want to enjoy the pool or hot tub, keeping your hearing aids dry is a top priority. Are waterproof hearing aids available? And are they completely waterproof? We want to help you find the right hearing aids for your needs.
What is the Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant?
When a hearing aid is water-resistant, the device can continue working properly after exposure to a small amount of moisture for a short period of time. Many times people confuse water-resistant and waterproof. Waterproof hearing aids would have the ability to be submerged in water without damage. While truly waterproof hearing aids are not currently on the market, there are some solutions to help you find ways to enjoy your day by the water.
We all know accidents happen, but wouldn’t you like to hear better after a day at the beach? What about after getting caught in a downpour? Water-resistant hearing aids will survive if you’re caught in the rain.
Why Buy a Water-Resistant Hearing Aid?
When selecting a hearing aid, it’s important to find a model that matches your specific needs and preferences. You may want to consider a pair of water-resistant hearing aids if you live in a humid area or spend a lot of time near the ocean. You should also look for this additional protection if you have very oily skin or produce a lot of earwax. It’s important to remember that water-resistant hearing aids are not safe to submerge, which means no swimming or showering with your hearing aids.
How to Avoid Water Damage to Hearing Aids
There are many ways to avoid damaging your hearing aids, but here are some tips to keep them from falling into the sink or the toilet. First, avoid putting your hearing aids down in the bathroom. It is too easy for them to fall into water, or take in humidity from the shower when storing them in a wet place, such as the bathroom. It is recommended that hearing aids are stored in their case in your bedroom.
Another tip to avoid water damage to your hearing aids is to always take them out before jumping into the shower, or into a pool. One recommendation that works well is to leave a note next to your shower or next to your bathing suit or beach bag so that you never have to face the tragedy of getting your hearing aids wet.
My Hearing Aids Got Wet- What Do I Do?
We’ve all heard how important it is to keep electronics dry, but what happens if your hearing aids accidentally get wet? Don’t panic! The first step to drying out your hearing aids is to turn them off and remove the batteries. Keeping a wet battery inside your device can only create further damage. Once the batteries have been removed, you can rinse your hearing aids to get rid of sweat, salty ocean water and earwax. Once they are cleaned, let them dry for 24 hours. You also have the option of putting your hearing aid in a sealed bag of uncooked rice to let it work as a dehumidifier on your electronics. It is important that you do not put any heat on your hearing aids including using a hair dryer, microwave or an oven. The additional heat can do more damage than the water. If your hearing aids are still wet, contact us, and we can try to save your hearing devices.
