Long days, warm sunshine and afternoons at the pool make summer a favorite season for many. But if you wear hearing aids, you may wonder how safe your devices are around water. Whether you’re lounging by the Washington Park Natatorium pool or caught in a sudden rain shower, understanding water resistance can help protect your devices.
How We Measure Water Resistance
Hearing aid manufacturers use an Ingress Protection (IP) rating to indicate how well a device resists dust and water. This two-digit number is a quick guide to your device’s durability:
- The first digit (0–6) measures dust protection, with six meaning completely dust-tight.
- The second digit (0–9) measures water resistance, with nine offering the highest defense against moisture and strong water jets.
For example, an IP68 rating means your hearing aids are dust-tight and can withstand continuous submersion in water for a limited depth and time.
Everyday Water Resistance Vs. Swimming
Even if your hearing aids have a high IP rating, they’re primarily designed to handle splashes, humidity and brief exposure to moisture—think sudden rainstorms or a rinse under the faucet when you wash your face. Extended time in water can still risk damage. Removing them before heading into the pool or ocean is always best.
Extra Protection for Summer Fun
Water resistance also shields your devices from other summer hazards, such as sweat, sunscreen and sand. If you’re planning a day at the beach, a waterproof storage case can keep your hearing aids safe until you’re ready to put them back in.
What To Do if You Get Your Devices Wet
If your hearing aids fall into the pool or get wet, quickly dry them with a soft towel and place them in a drying jar or electronic dryer if you have one on hand. Even with IP68 protection, promptly removing moisture helps maintain clear sound.
Contact us at Advanced Hearing if you notice any muffled sound, feedback or distortion afterward. Quick attention can often prevent long-term damage, keeping your hearing aids working well for many summers to come.