Summer activities are some of the best parts of the season. Swimming, hiking, outdoor concerts and beach trips all offer great ways to enjoy the warm weather. But if you wear hearing aids, these enjoyable moments can quickly turn stressful when you’re constantly worried about moisture damage. Whether it’s unexpected rain during a picnic, sweat from a morning run or splashes from pool activities, water and hearing aids don’t mix well. The fear of damaging your devices shouldn’t keep you from participating in the activities you love most.

The good news is that with some practical preparation, you can confidently enjoy summer’s water-filled adventures without constantly checking your hearing aids or rushing to find shelter at the first sign of humidity. Understanding how to properly protect your devices means you can focus on what really matters: hearing conversations clearly, staying connected during outdoor activities and enjoying everything summer has to offer. You don’t need to choose between protecting your hearing aids and making the most of the season.

How Water Can Affect Your Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are small, advanced devices designed to make sounds clearer and easier to understand. They typically have a microphone that picks up sound from the environment, an amplifier that makes the sound louder and a speaker (or receiver) that delivers the sound into your ear. Many models also have a tiny computer chip that processes sound to reduce background noise and enhance speech. These parts work together in real time to help you hear better in a wide range of settings.

Because hearing aids are packed with delicate electronics in a very small space, they are sensitive to moisture. Water can interfere with hearing aids by entering and damaging their internal parts. Even a small amount of moisture, like sweat or humidity, can build up over time and cause problems like muffled sound, crackling noises or device failure. These issues may not always be obvious at first but can lead to more serious concerns if left unaddressed.

When water gets inside a hearing aid, it can corrode metal contacts, damage the microphone or receiver, and short-circuit the internal electronics. Moisture may also cause residue to build up in tiny openings, blocking sound or distorting it. Over time, repeated exposure to humidity or accidental splashes can reduce the overall lifespan of the device and lead to the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Water Activities That May Put Hearing Aids at Risk

Many popular water activities like swimming, kayaking or spending time at the beach bring a clear risk of water contact for hearing aids. Even activities like relaxing by the pool or going fishing can lead to accidental splashes or drops that expose hearing aids to moisture. Boating, paddleboarding or wading in shallow water can also be risky, since unexpected movements or waves can send water onto your ears before you realize it.

It is not only full submersion that can be a problem. Playing with your kids in sprinklers, gardening with a hose or washing the car can all create sudden sprays of water that may reach your devices. Even being caught in a summer rainstorm or working up a heavy sweat during outdoor exercise can allow moisture to build up over time. These everyday activities might not seem like threats at first but can introduce enough water to cause damage if you are not paying close attention.

Considering Other Forms of Moisture

While direct water exposure is an obvious concern, other sources of moisture can also put your hearing aids at risk. Sweat is one of the most common. Whether you are out for a walk, working in the yard or just spending time outside on a hot day, sweat can collect around and behind your ears. Over time, that moisture can seep into the device, affecting sound quality or corroding internal parts.

Rain is another concern, especially in warm months when sudden showers are common. A light drizzle might seem harmless, but if your hearing aids are exposed even briefly, moisture can work its way inside. Humid environments can also cause long-term issues. If you live somewhere with consistently high humidity, your devices may be exposed to low-level moisture daily without you noticing.

Even condensation from temperature changes can be a factor. Moving from a hot outdoor setting into an air-conditioned space can cause moisture to collect around your hearing aids. These small, everyday situations might not seem like a big deal, but they can quietly add up and lead to hearing aid performance problems if the moisture is not addressed.

Understanding Waterproof and Water-Resistant Hearing Aids

Not all hearing aids handle moisture in the same way. Most modern devices are water resistant, meaning they can cope with small amounts of moisture from daily activities like sweat or light rain. These models have protective coatings and sealed components that help defend against everyday moisture exposure. Water resistant hearing aids are often a good choice for people who are active, spend time outdoors or live in humid climates where avoiding moisture entirely is difficult.

Waterproof hearing aids, on the other hand, are much rarer. These devices are designed to withstand submersion in water for a limited time and depth, typically based on specific IP ratings set by manufacturers. A waterproof model can offer extra peace of mind for people who spend significant time around water, like swimmers, boaters or those in very wet environments. However, even waterproof hearing aids have limits. They are not usually intended for extended swimming sessions, diving or prolonged submersion, and wearers still need to follow care guidelines to avoid damage.

It is important to consider your lifestyle and typical activities when deciding between water resistant and waterproof options. While waterproof models can offer added protection, they may come at a higher cost and with fewer style or feature choices. For many people, a high-quality water resistant hearing aid paired with good habits for managing moisture is enough to handle daily risks and keep the device working reliably over time.

Signs That Moisture May Be Damaging Your Hearing Aids

It is important to recognize when moisture might be causing trouble for your hearing aids. Watch for a sudden drop in sound quality, like muffled or crackling noises that make it harder to follow conversations. These changes often mean that moisture has reached sensitive internal parts. Devices that turn off unexpectedly or restart on their own can also be a sign that water is interfering with the electronics.

Another clue is faster-than-normal battery drain. When moisture reaches the battery contacts or circuitry, it can cause short-circuiting or corrosion that uses up power quickly. You might also notice visible condensation inside the battery compartment or on the surface of the hearing aid itself. Any water droplets or a foggy appearance inside the casing are clear indicators that moisture has made its way in.

Fit and performance changes can also point to moisture problems. If your hearing aids feel different in your ear after being near water or if they suddenly stop amplifying sound as effectively, it could mean water has disrupted their internal components. Paying attention to these early warning signs can help you address problems before they lead to more serious or permanent damage.

Accessories and Tools to Protect Your Hearing Aids

Accessories and tools designed to protect your hearing aids can make a big difference in keeping them working well. One popular option is a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying box. These devices use gentle heat or desiccants to remove moisture that builds up from sweat, humidity or accidental exposure. Using a dehumidifier regularly, especially overnight, can help prevent corrosion and keep internal components in better condition.

Protective cases are another simple but effective tool. A sturdy case can shield hearing aids from accidental drops, dust and unexpected splashes when you are not wearing them. Some cases are even designed to be airtight or moisture-resistant, adding another layer of protection during travel or storage in damp environments. Keeping your hearing aids in a protective case when they are not in use is an easy habit that can extend their lifespan.

Other accessories include wax guards and microphone covers that help block debris and moisture from entering sensitive parts of the device. Cleaning tools like small brushes and cloths are also important for daily maintenance. These tools make it easier to remove dust, earwax and other buildup before it can interfere with sound quality.

Best Ways to Remove and Store Hearing Aids Before Swimming

Before swimming, always take out your hearing aids in a dry and safe spot away from the water’s edge. Hold the device by its main body rather than tubing or wires when removing it. Gently wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth to remove any sweat or moisture before storing them.

Place your devices in a waterproof storage case or a drying box with the battery door open if possible. This allows air to circulate and helps prevent trapped moisture. Keep the case in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid leaving your hearing aids on towels or poolside chairs where they might get wet accidentally.

Simple Maintenance Steps To Prevent Moisture Problems

Taking a few minutes each day to care for your hearing aids can go a long way in preventing moisture-related problems. Moisture from sweat, rain or humidity can slowly build up and affect sound quality or damage internal parts over time. Establishing a daily routine helps remove this moisture before it can cause trouble and keeps your devices working the way you expect. A little regular attention can help avoid unexpected hearing aid repairs and extend the life of your hearing aids.

Try adding these habits to your routine:

Wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth every night
Store them in a drying box or dehumidifier when not in use
Open battery doors at night to allow air flow
Check for any signs of moisture or corrosion in the battery compartment

Steps to Take if Your Hearing Aid Gets Wet

If your hearing aid gets wet unexpectedly, remove it from your ear right away and turn it off. Take out the battery if possible and gently dry the outside with a soft cloth. Place the device and battery in a drying container or pouch made for hearing aids.

Do not use direct heat sources like hair dryers or ovens, as these can cause more harm. Knowing what to do in these situations helps prevent further problems and may keep your device working after an accident near water.

Keeping Your Hearing Aids Safe Around Water

Summer should be about enjoying the moments that make the season special, not worrying about whether your hearing aids can handle it. We know how important it is to feel prepared for all the unexpected moisture that comes with outdoor fun. When we understand the risks and take steps to care for our devices, we can spend less time stressing about damage and more time soaking up everything summer has to offer. It is all about making sure you stay involved in the conversations, laughter and experiences that really matter.

If you want help finding the best ways to protect your hearing aids this season, we are here to support you. Contact Peninsula Hearing in Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island, WA at (360) 697-3061, or Port Townsend, WA at (360) 379-5458. We can talk about your specific needs and help you choose solutions that make sense for your lifestyle.

Tips for Keeping Hearing Aids Dry During Water Activities