Yes, waterproof hearing aids exist, but "waterproof" means different things depending on the model

Most modern hearing aids are water-resistant to some degree, but truly waterproof models are less common and more expensive. The difference matters: water-resistant means the device can handle splashes and sweat, while waterproof means it can survive submersion. Some brands offer both options, and some offer neither. What you can actually buy depends on your hearing loss, your budget, and what you plan to do with the device.

The hearing aid industry uses an IP rating to describe how much water a device can handle. IP67 means the device can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. IP68 means it can handle deeper or longer submersion. Many current models carry IP67 or IP68 ratings. Others carry IP54 or IP55, which means they resist splashes and sweat but will fail if fully submerged. A few older or budget models have no water rating at all.

Key Takeaways

  • Water-resistant hearing aids (IP54–IP67) handle sweat and rain but fail if submerged; waterproof models (IP67–IP68) survive full submersion for set periods.
  • Waterproof models cost more and may have shorter battery life because the sealed casing takes up space inside the device.
  • Rechargeable waterproof hearing aids are now available from major brands, though they are newer and less common than disposable-battery versions.
  • Even waterproof hearing aids need a dry-storage box or dehumidifier at night to prevent long-term moisture damage.
  • Your audiologist can tell you the exact IP rating of any model you are considering and whether it suits your lifestyle.

Which hearing aid brands offer waterproof models

Phonak, Oticon, Signia, Widex, and ReSound all make hearing aids with IP67 or IP68 ratings. Phonak's Audéo Fit and Oticon's Real are examples of popular water-resistant models. Signia's Pure Charge&Go X and Widex Moment Sheer are waterproof options. ReSound LiNX Quattro carries an IP67 rating. Each brand updates its lineup regularly, so the specific models available change year to year.

The catch is that waterproof models are usually available only in certain styles — typically receiver-in-canal (RIC) or behind-the-ear (BTE) designs. If you need a completely-in-canal (CIC) or invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aid, your waterproof options shrink or disappear. Smaller devices have less room for the sealed casing that makes waterproofing possible.

What waterproof actually costs

A water-resistant hearing aid (IP54–IP67) typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000 per pair, depending on features and the brand. A fully waterproof model (IP67–IP68) usually costs $2,000 to $4,000 per pair. The premium for waterproofing is roughly $300 to $800 per pair, though this varies by manufacturer and retailer.

Waterproof rechargeable models tend to cost more than waterproof disposable-battery models because the charging case itself must be sealed. Some insurance plans cover hearing aids at a fixed amount regardless of waterproofing, which means you may pay the full difference out of pocket. Medicare does not cover hearing aids, but some Medicaid programs do — coverage and limits vary by state.

How waterproof hearing aids are built differently

A waterproof hearing aid has a sealed casing, often made of medical-grade silicone or a similar material, that surrounds the internal components. The microphone ports and speaker openings are designed to let sound in and out while keeping water out. Some models use hydrophobic coatings on the circuit board itself as a backup layer.

The trade-off is space. Because the waterproofing casing takes up room inside the device, waterproof hearing aids often have smaller batteries than non-waterproof models of the same style. A waterproof disposable-battery hearing aid might last 5 to 7 days per battery, while a non-waterproof model might last 7 to 10 days. Waterproof rechargeable models typically run 24 hours on a full charge, the same as non-waterproof rechargeable versions, but the charging case is bulkier.

Waterproof hearing aids and daily care

Waterproofing does not mean you can ignore moisture. Even IP68-rated hearing aids need to dry out at night. Most audiologists recommend storing waterproof hearing aids in a dry-storage box or dehumidifier case every evening, the same way you would treat any hearing aid. Some people use a straightforward plastic case with silica gel packets; others invest in an electric dehumidifier designed for hearing aids.

If you swim or shower regularly, a waterproof hearing aid is worth the cost because it removes the stress of removing and replacing the device. If you mostly worry about sweat and rain, a water-resistant model (IP54–IP67) is usually enough and costs less. Ask your audiologist whether the specific model you are considering can handle the water exposure you actually expect.

Rechargeable waterproof hearing aids

Rechargeable waterproof hearing aids are newer than disposable-battery waterproof models, and the selection is still smaller. Phonak Audéo Fit, Oticon Real, and Signia Pure Charge&Go X all come in waterproof rechargeable versions. The advantage is that you never have to handle tiny batteries, and the charging case is sealed to protect the device. The disadvantage is that the case itself is larger and more expensive to replace if damaged.

Rechargeable waterproof models typically charge fully in 3 to 4 hours and run 24 hours on a charge. Some models can fast-charge in 30 minutes for a few hours of use if you are in a hurry. Battery life does degrade over time — most rechargeable hearing aids retain about 80 percent of their original battery capacity after two years of daily use.

What waterproof does not protect against

Waterproof ratings do not cover salt water, chlorine, or other chemicals. If you swim in a pool, rinse the hearing aid with fresh water afterward. Salt water can corrode the internal components even on an IP68 device. Waterproof ratings also do not cover damage from being dropped or sat on — the casing can crack, which breaks the seal.

Some waterproof hearing aids are not designed for high-pressure water, such as from a shower head held close to the ear or a diving scenario. Check the manufacturer's specifications for the exact conditions the device can handle. An IP67 rating means 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, not a pressurized jet or deep diving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear waterproof hearing aids while swimming?

Yes, if they carry an IP67 or IP68 rating. Rinse them with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or salt. Store them in a dry case overnight. Some people prefer to remove them during swimming anyway to avoid losing them in the water.

Do waterproof hearing aids work as well as regular ones?

Sound quality is the same. The waterproofing casing does not affect how the microphone picks up sound or how the speaker delivers it. The main difference is battery life — waterproof models may run slightly shorter on a single battery because the casing takes up internal space.

What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?

Water-resistant (IP54–IP67) handles splashes, sweat, and light rain but will fail if fully submerged. Waterproof (IP67–IP68) survives full submersion for a set time. If you shower or swim, waterproof is safer. If you mostly need protection from sweat and rain, water-resistant is usually enough.

Are waterproof hearing aids covered by insurance?

Medicare does not cover hearing aids at all. Some Medicaid programs cover them, but coverage and limits vary by state. Private insurance rarely covers hearing aids. If your plan does cover them, it usually pays a fixed amount regardless of waterproofing, so you pay the difference yourself.

How long do waterproof hearing aids last?

The typical lifespan is 5 to 7 years with proper care. Waterproofing does not shorten or lengthen this timeline. The main factor is how well you maintain them — daily dry storage and regular cleaning extend the life of any hearing aid, waterproof or not.