Did you know that majority of the hearing aids available in today’s market are moisture proof, but not waterproof? While walking in the rain and having a vigorous workout won’t damage your hearing aids, you still need to be conscious of your hearing aids in wet environments. While this may be easier to manage in the fall and winter, extra precaution should be taken during the warmer months. The heat often brings with it humidity and moisture, and then there’s the typical warm weather pastime, swimming. On hot days, it’s not uncommon for a person to dive in, and then realize they still had their hearing aids in after the fact. However, even if you didn’t look before you took the plunge, all hope is not lost.

Have a pair of hearing aids that decided to go for a swim? Before you panic, learn what to do with wet hearing aids.

1. When your hearing aid has been exposed to water, make sure you remove it from the source of water, turn it off, and immediately remove the battery from the device. The exception to this is when your hearing aid falls in salt or dirty water. When this happens, rinse first with clean water and then turn it off and remove the battery.

2. Gently shake your hearing aid to help remove the water from your device. Then take a clean towel or cloth and lightly dry it off. Never, EVER, use an oven or a microwave as a way to dry your hearing aids. Otherwise, you run the high heat you run a risk of melting the hearing aid’s circuitry.

3. Let your hearing aid(s) sit out with the battery compartment door open to dry for a day or two. Make sure that the battery has been removed. Using a hearing aid dehumidifier is best for this step.

4. Put in a new battery and give your hearing aids a try to see if they work. It’s always good news when they work, but if they don’t, do not assume that all hope is lost. It may need some more time to dry. Otherwise, contact your audiologist to discuss your options. You may have a warranty or may have to pay a repair charge. Remember, even if you have to pay a repair charge it is often cheaper than the price of a new hearing aid!