Are hearing aids waterproof? Find out this and much, much more.
Hearing aids come in multiple styles today and have many features, like Bluetooth connectivity. You can even find rechargeable ones with a dehumidifier built into their chargers! You have come here because you want to know if hearing aids are waterproof or not. Let’s answer this question and several other questions that come with it.
Are Hearing Aids Waterproof?
Some hearing aid producers claim to have created the first waterproof hearing aids on the market. Are they? Only for a limited time, specifically 30 minutes. Phonak’s Audeo Life hearing aid can be under up to about 2 feet of water for up to 30 minutes safely. Therefore, some hearing aids can be waterproof, but only to an extent.
How Do Water-Resistant Hearing Aids Work?
A better definition would be water resistant. You can know a hearing device’s water resistance based on its IP rating, a two-number label on a scale of 1 to 8 regarding its resistance to solids (dust and dirt) and liquids (water, sweat, etc.)
Do You Need Water-Resistant Hearing Aids?
You might want water-resistant hearing aids if:
- You live in a humid climate (like Maryland summers)
- You are more likely to forget to take them off before exercising or showering
- You sweat heavily
- You like activities like boating, paddleboarding, fishing, etc.
Are Waterproof Hearing Aids Covered by Insurance?
According to Forbes, Medicare Advantage pairs up with third-party insurance companies so that you can have hearing aids covered by insurance.
Can You Wear Hearing Aids in the Shower or When Swimming?
Even though there are water-resistant hearing aids, they are not designed to withstand getting substantially wet. Even if you get submersible hearing aids, it is best to take them off when showering or swimming.
How to Protect Hearing Aids from Moisture
Are there ways to protect your non-water-resistant hearing aids from splashes and droplets? Yes! You can apply a thin coating like NanoBlock or a disposable covering like latex, nylon, or cloth.
What to Do If Non-Water-Resistant Hearing Aids Get Wet
If your non-water-resistant hearing aids get wet, dab them dry and allow them to air-dry in a cool, shaded area near a dehumidifier or blower or in a bag or bowl of uncooked rice.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
You can call us today to schedule a FREE Hearing Protection Consultation at 410-698-6594! For more blog posts, news, and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.