Most hearing aids are not waterproof, but many are water-resistant
Most hearing aids sold today are water-resistant, which means they can handle splashes, sweat, and brief exposure to moisture — but they are not waterproof and will be damaged by submersion in water. The difference matters because it changes what you can safely do while wearing them. A water-resistant hearing aid can survive a rainy walk or a sweaty afternoon at the gym. It cannot survive a shower, a swim, or being dropped in a sink.
Manufacturers rate water resistance using an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. The rating tells you exactly what the device can handle. An IP67 rating, for example, means the hearing aid can survive brief immersion in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes — but that is the limit, and it is not the same as being waterproof for everyday swimming. An IP68 rating allows deeper and longer water exposure. Some newer models carry an IP rating of 68, which is the highest available for hearing aids.
Even water-resistant hearing aids need care. Sweat, humidity, and moisture from rain can still damage the internal electronics over time if you do not dry them properly each night. The battery compartment and microphone ports are the most vulnerable spots.
Key Takeaways
- Water-resistant hearing aids can handle rain and sweat but will be damaged by showers, swimming, or submersion in water.
- Your hearing aid's IP rating tells you the exact water exposure it can survive — check your manual or ask your audiologist what yours is rated for.
- Even water-resistant models need to be dried thoroughly each night to prevent moisture damage to the battery and microphone.
- If your hearing aid gets wet beyond its rating, remove the battery when ready, do not try to use it, and contact your audiologist or manufacturer.
- Waterproof cases and protective covers are sold separately and can extend what your hearing aids can do in wet conditions.
Understanding IP ratings for hearing aids
The IP rating system uses two numbers. The first number (0 to 6) rates protection against dust and solid objects. The second number (0 to 9) rates protection against water. For hearing aids, you care most about the second number.
An IP rating of X4 means the device can handle water splashes from any direction. An IP rating of X5 means it can handle low-pressure water jets. An IP rating of X6 means it can handle high-pressure water jets. An IP rating of X7 means it can survive brief immersion in water up to one meter deep for up to 30 minutes. An IP rating of X8 means it can survive immersion in water deeper than one meter for longer periods — the manufacturer sets the exact depth and time.
Most hearing aids on the market today carry an IP rating of 54, 57, 64, 67, or 68. Ask your audiologist or check your hearing aid manual to find out what your specific model is rated for. The rating is usually printed on the device itself or in the paperwork that came with it.
What happens if your hearing aid gets wet
If your hearing aid gets wet beyond what its IP rating allows, the moisture can damage the battery, the microphone, the receiver, or the circuit board. You may notice crackling sounds, reduced volume, or complete failure. Sometimes the damage is when ready. Sometimes it shows up days later as corrosion builds inside the device.
If your hearing aid gets wet, remove the battery right away and leave it out. Do not try to use the device or put the battery back in. Dry the outside of the hearing aid with a soft, dry cloth. Leave the battery compartment open and let the device air-dry in a warm, dry place for at least 24 hours. Some people place their hearing aids in a container of uncooked rice or silica gel packets to speed drying, though this is not a substitute for air-drying.
After 24 hours of drying, put the battery back in and try the device. If it works normally, you are likely fine. If it does not work, sounds distorted, or cuts out, contact your audiologist or the hearing aid manufacturer. Many manufacturers offer repair or replacement for water damage, though some charge a fee depending on your warranty.
Daily care to prevent moisture damage
Even if your hearing aids are water-resistant, moisture from sweat, humidity, and overnight condensation can shorten their lifespan. The battery compartment is especially vulnerable because moisture can corrode the contacts that hold the battery in place.
Each night, open the battery compartment and leave it open while the hearing aids sit in a dry place. If you live in a humid climate or sweat heavily, use a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying container. These are small boxes that use heat, silica gel, or both to pull moisture out of the device overnight. They cost between $20 and $100 and are sold by most hearing aid manufacturers and online retailers.
Wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth before you put them away. Never use water, alcohol, or cleaning solutions unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe. Check the microphone port and receiver opening for visible debris or wax buildup, which can trap moisture. If you see buildup, ask your audiologist to clean the device during your next visit.
Waterproof cases and protective covers
If you want to wear your hearing aids in wet conditions beyond their IP rating, waterproof cases and protective covers are sold separately. These are small pouches or shells that fit over the hearing aid and seal out water. Some are designed for swimming or water sports. Others are designed for everyday protection during rain or high-humidity activities.
Waterproof cases come in different styles. Some are soft pouches that you slip the hearing aid into. Others are hard shells that snap or clip onto the device. A few are full-body covers that seal around the entire hearing aid and the ear mold. Prices range from $15 to $60 per pair, depending on the style and brand.
Keep in mind that a waterproof case adds bulk and can change how the hearing aid fits in your ear. It may also muffle sound slightly. Test the case before you rely on it for an important activity. Some people use a case only for swimming or beach trips and go without it for everyday wear.
When to contact your audiologist about water damage
Contact your audiologist or hearing aid manufacturer if your hearing aid has been exposed to water beyond its IP rating and now shows any of these signs: crackling or popping sounds, reduced volume, cutting out during use, feedback that was not there before, or complete failure to turn on.
Have your hearing aid's serial number and model number ready when you call. This information is usually on the device itself or in your paperwork. Your audiologist can tell you whether the damage is repairable, whether it is covered under warranty, and what the next steps are. Some repairs take a few days. Others may require sending the device to the manufacturer, which can take one to two weeks.
If you are still under warranty and the damage is accidental (not from intentional submersion), many manufacturers will repair or replace the device at no cost. If your warranty has expired or does not cover water damage, repair costs typically range from $100 to $300 per device, though this varies by manufacturer and the extent of the damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear my hearing aids in the shower?
Only if your hearing aid has an IP67 or IP68 rating and you keep the exposure brief. Even then, the steam and heat from a hot shower can damage the device faster than cool water. Most audiologists recommend removing your hearing aids before showering, regardless of the rating, because the risk is not worth the benefit.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
Water-resistant means the device can handle some water exposure without damage, up to a limit set by its IP rating. Waterproof means the device is completely sealed against water and can be submerged indefinitely. Hearing aids are never truly waterproof — they are always water-resistant to some degree.
Can I swim with my hearing aids?
Most hearing aids should not be worn while swimming, even if they have an IP68 rating. Swimming involves prolonged submersion, pressure changes, and chlorine or salt water, all of which can damage the device. If you want to wear hearing aids in water, ask your audiologist about waterproof cases designed for swimming or about water-specific hearing aid models.
How do I know my hearing aid's IP rating?
Check your hearing aid manual, the paperwork that came with the device, or the manufacturer's website. The IP rating is often printed on the device itself or on the battery compartment. If you cannot find it, call your audiologist — they have your device information on file.
Will my hearing aid warranty cover water damage?
Most standard warranties do not cover water damage unless it is accidental and the device is rated for that level of exposure. Some manufacturers offer optional water-damage coverage for an extra fee. Check your warranty paperwork or ask your audiologist what is and is not covered before water exposure happens.