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What should I do if my hearing aids get wet?
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You accidentally forgot to take your hearing aids out before getting into the shower, or maybe you got stuck in the rain or went surfing! Now they’re all wet! First things first. Don’t panic! Of course, like most electronics, hearing aids and water don’t mix well...
However, many hearing aids are actually designed to be resistant to moisture, and can even survive a soaking.
Your hearing aids are a big investment, and we know replacing them isn’t your first choice. Don’t give up on your hearing aids just yet. Try these tips to restore your hearing aids before you start shopping for a new pair.
What Not to Do
Never put your hearing aids in the microwave! It’s tempting to try using the microwave to dry them out, but don’t do it. Hearing aids are not designed to withstand heat, so instead of drying them, a microwave will melt some components of the hearing aid, and this cannot be fixed. Never use a hairdryer or a furnace vent as this also applies too much heat, and will damage the hearing aid more than the soaking.
To Do: Remove Battery
Before you stress, immediately turn off the hearing aids and take out the batteries. Don’t wait to see if it will turn back on, but get that battery out of there! Once a battery gets wet it starts to corrode and won’t work, so discard it. Leaving a wet battery in the hearing aid can cause further damage to the hearing aid contacts or electronics inside the hearing aid.
To Do: Follow Tips on Drying
Moisture in the hearing aids causes all sorts of malfunctions, but drying them out will often solve the problem. If your hearing aid was in soapy or dirty water, rinse it with clean water before you start drying. First remove any excess water with a soft, dry cloth.
Leave your hearing aids sitting in a dry place with the battery door open. Air dry them for 24 to 48 hours until they are dried out.
The best way to dry your hearing aids is with a hearing aid dryer. Dryers are recommended as part of your hearing aid care routine, especially if you live in a humid climate, if you lead an active lifestyle, or if you perspire heavily. Drying out your hearing aids regularly will prolong the life of the hearing aids, improve function, and reduce the number of repairs. Dryers are also great to have if your hearing aids have gotten wet. Simply put your hearing aids into the dryer overnight. By the morning, there’s a good chance your hearing aids will be as good as new. If not, return the hearing aids to the dryer and continue drying until all moisture has been removed.
If you don’t have a dryer, you can try a hearing aid desiccant. This is a dehumidifying product that will remove the moisture from your hearing aid. Place your hearing aids in the jar of desiccant overnight or until they are completely dry.
You can also use the old tried and true method of rice. Since rice absorbs water, it can be used as a dehumidifier for electronic devices. Put a cup of uncooked rice in a container and set your hearing aids inside. Close the lid and leave it for 24 hours. The rice will suck all the moisture out of the hearing aids, leaving them dry and ready to use. Test out your hearing aids by inserting new batteries and turning them on.
To Do: See a Professional
If you are still experiencing problems with your hearing aids, we’re here to help. Visit us at Greentree Audiology, a top-rated audiologist and hearing provider in St. Louis for a thorough drying and cleaning, and for any repairs that are needed to make your hearing aids as good as new.
Specific Brand Information
Starkey Hearing Aids in St. Louis
Widex Hearing Aids in St. Louis
Oticon Hearing Aids in St. Louis
ReSound Hearing Aids in St. Louis
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