OOPS!! You got your hearing aids wet! Tips to help

One of the hottest topics for our clients at this time of year is whether they can wear their hearing aids for a dip in the pool or sea.

Our answer?
Unless you have devices that are specifically marketed as being waterproof – such as the Phonak Audeo Life – it’s a resounding ‘no’! As with any electronic device, water is no friend to your hearing aids.

Yes, most hearing aid models are water-resistant, but that’s very different from waterproof! You can wear water-resistant devices for a run or in light rain, but they shouldn’t be worn in the shower or when swimming, surfing, or for any other water sports.

However, what should you do if you’ve just jumped enthusiastically into the pool or shower and then realised your devices are still in your ears?
First of all, don’t panic – lots of people do it, and all is not lost. Act quickly and you’re likely to be okay.

What to do if your hearing aids take a dip:

1. Get the device out of the water as quickly as you can and turn it off immediately.
2. Remove the battery and dispose of it.
3. Close the battery door, remove the tube (if there is one) and dry gently with a towel. Shake it gently to remove as much water as possible.
4. Open the battery door and leave the device to dry out completely. This may mean leaving it for a couple of days. A drying or dehumidifier pot will speed things up.
5. Once everything is dried out, put in a fresh battery and switch the device on.
6. If it doesn’t work, you can leave it another 24 hours and see if it works.
7. If all else fails, bring your devices to The Hearing Clinic and we’ll arrange a repair and provide you with some replacements in the interim.