How much moisture can a hearing aid handle?
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Many people wonder how robust today's hearing aids really are. Can they be used in the rain? What happens if you sweat while exercising? And can they withstand a trip in the washing machine? The answer often lies in the hearing aid's IP rating.
What is IP rating?
IP stands for Ingress Protection and is an international standard that describes how well a product is protected against dust and water.
An IP rating consists of two numbers:
First number indicates protection against dust (0–6)
Other numbers indicate protection against water (0–9)
For example, IP68 means that the hearing aid is very well protected against dust and withstands water ingress better than most electronic products on the market.
What does this mean in practice?
Modern hearing aids with a high IP rating are designed to withstand everyday life:
✓ Rainy weather on the way to work or school
✓ Sweating during exercise or physical activity
✓ Humid environments and high humidity
✓ An accident with water splashing when washing hands or doing dishes
Many users also find that the hearing aid works just fine after minor accidents, such as a quick shower or being exposed to heavy rain.
But does that mean the hearing aid is waterproof?
Not necessarily. Although many hearing aids have very good protection against water, most are not designed for swimming, showering or prolonged immersion in water .
IP tests are conducted under controlled laboratory conditions. Reality may differ, especially if the hearing aid is exposed to:
Soapy water
Salt water
Chlorinated water
High-pressure washing
Repeated or prolonged moisture exposure
Therefore, it is still recommended to remove your hearing aids before showering, bathing and swimming.
If the accident is out
Has your hearing aid gotten wet? Don't panic. In many cases, it's fine, especially if the device has a high IP rating. Do the following:
Wipe off visible moisture with a soft cloth.
Open the battery drawer if the device has a replaceable battery.
Lay the hearing aid out to dry or use suitable drying equipment. if you have this available (drying box, drying tablets, etc.).
Contact your nearest hearing care professional or AudioPlus if the device behaves abnormally.
Some simple tips for a longer lifespan
Even robust hearing aids benefit from a little care:
Wipe down the appliances daily.
Keep them dry at night.
Clean microphone openings and audio outputs regularly.
Remove them when showering, bathing, swimming or in heavy rain.
In summary
Today's hearing aids are more robust than ever. High IP ratings provide good protection against dust, sweat, rain and minor everyday water spills.
However, it is important to remember that water-resistant does not necessarily mean waterproof. With a little care and proper maintenance, hearing aids can function optimally for many years – even when everyday life does not always go according to plan.
Greetings from all of us at AudioPlus Norge AS
Tel: + 47 990 99 779
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