My hearing aid got wet — what should I do? This is a common but worrying situation for many hearing aid users. No brand makes fully submersible hearing aids, but many modern devices have some degree of IP68 water protection, covering things like splashes or sweat. However, they’re not designed to withstand full immersion in water.
What should you do if your hearing aid gets wet? Keep reading to find out the key steps that can save your device and keep it working. If you need further help, at our hearing centre in Valencia we’re experts in hearing aid repairs.
My hearing aid got wet: complete guide on what to do and how to prevent damage
Few situations worry hearing aid users more than discovering their device has got wet. Whether it accidentally fell into the sink or got caught in unexpected rain, the immediate question is: what should I do if my hearing aid gets wet? In this article we’ll explain the immediate steps to take to minimise the damage, and give you recommendations for preventing future incidents.
Why aren’t hearing aids waterproof?
Although many modern hearing aids have protection such as an IP68 rating, making them resistant to surface moisture (splashes, sweat), no hearing aid is fully waterproof. This means full immersion in water, or prolonged exposure, can seriously damage them. The tiny electronic components inside a hearing aid are very sensitive to moisture, and a short circuit can render them unusable if not handled properly.
First steps when your hearing aid gets wet
If you’ve noticed your hearing aid has been exposed to water, whether it fell into a pool or got wet in the rain, the most important thing is to act immediately to prevent irreversible damage.
- Remove the batteries immediately: If your hearing aid uses disposable batteries, remove them straight away to prevent water from causing a short circuit. If the device is rechargeable, switch it off.
- Dry the outside with a soft cloth: Use a soft, dry cloth or tissue to remove any visible water. Make sure there’s no moisture left on the surface of the device.
- Dehumidify the hearing aid: The next step is to remove any remaining moisture inside. Ideally, use a hearing aid dehumidifier. If you don’t have one to hand, you can use a hairdryer on the cold setting, always held at a safe distance. Never use hot air, as this could damage the device.
- Let the hearing aid rest for several hours: Before switching the hearing aid back on, make sure it’s completely dry. This prevents electricity from running through circuits that are still damp, which could cause permanent damage.
- Change the batteries: If your hearing aid uses batteries, use fresh ones when you switch it back on. Never reuse batteries that got wet, as they may no longer work properly, or worse, could damage the hearing aid.
- If the sound doesn’t come through or isn’t amplified, you’ll need to take the hearing aid to a hearing centre for repair.
What if the hearing aid still doesn’t work?
If, after following these steps, the hearing aid still isn’t working properly, it’s best to visit a hearing centre and have a specialist check it. At our hearing centre in Valencia, we have highly trained professionals who can diagnose the damage and offer quick, effective solutions.
Should I use rice to dry my hearing aid?
There’s a popular belief that putting wet electronic devices in rice can help dry them out. Although rice has absorbent properties, it’s not the most efficient or safe way to dry a hearing aid. Rice may not fully remove the moisture, and it could also leave dust residue on the device. It’s much better to use a specialised hearing aid dehumidifier, or see a professional.
How to prevent your hearing aid getting wet in future
The best way to protect your hearing aid is to avoid it getting wet in the first place. Here are some useful tips to minimise the risk:
- Avoid wearing your hearing aids in risky situations: If you’re going to the pool, the beach, or doing activities in the rain, it’s best to leave your hearing aids somewhere safe and dry.
- Use a dehumidifier regularly: Even if you don’t notice your hearing aids getting wet, ambient humidity or sweat can affect how they work. Using a dehumidifier every night can extend your device’s working life.
The importance of regular cleaning
Keeping your hearing aids clean and dry doesn’t just extend their working life — it also prevents problems such as earwax or dirt build-up, which can affect their performance. It’s a good idea to clean your hearing aids with a dry cloth every night before storing them, especially if you’ve been in humid or hot environments.
When a hearing aid gets wet, time is essential to prevent further damage. Acting quickly — removing the batteries, drying the device, and using a specialised dehumidifier — can be the difference between a minor scare and having to buy a new hearing aid. At our hearing centre in Valencia, we’re experts in hearing aid repair and maintenance. If you have any questions or need assistance, we invite you to visit us. We’re here to help you look after your hearing!
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Frequently asked questions
If your hearing aid gets wet, the first thing to do is switch it off and remove the batteries. Then, dry it with a soft cloth and use a specialised dehumidifier. Avoid using hot air, as this could damage it further. It’s essential to remember not to leave the batteries in, since even when not in use, they can cause damage and corrosion inside the hearing aid, irreversibly affecting the circuits. If the hearing aid distorts sound after getting wet, there may still be moisture inside. Switch it off, place it in a dehumidifier, and if the problem persists, take it to a hearing centre for a check-up.
Avoid wearing your hearing aid in situations where it could get wet, such as in the rain or at the pool. Also, use a dehumidifier daily to remove moisture that builds up from sweat or the environment. Specialised hearing aid dehumidifiers, whether electric or with drying capsules, are the most effective way to remove moisture without damaging the internal components.
Using a hairdryer on the hot setting isn’t recommended, as it could damage the components. If you do use one, make sure it’s on the cold setting and keep it at a safe distance.
Although rice can absorb some moisture, it’s not a reliable method. It’s much safer and more effective to use a specialised hearing aid dehumidifier, since it avoids any residue and dries the device better.
Depending on how severe the damage is, many hearing aids can be repaired at a specialist centre. However, if the damage is severe, you may need a replacement. A specialist can diagnose the issue and offer you the best solution.
You can check your hearing aid’s water resistance by looking at its IP (Ingress Protection) rating. A number like IP68 indicates protection against dust and partial resistance to water, such as splashes or sweat, but not full immersion. Check the device’s manual or ask your hearing care specialist for more details.
Book your appointment and visit us at BienestarAudio, our hearing centre in Valencia. Our hearing care specialists will be delighted to answer all your questions and offer you the best solution for looking after your hearing health.
