By Amanda Ariotti, MAudSt, AAudA (CCP), BBiomedSc. Amanda is a master’s qualified independent audiologist specialising in hearing rehabilitation in the Redlands Community.
It happens more often than you’d think. A sudden downpour, a quick dip in the pool, or simply forgetting to take your hearing aids out before the shower – moisture and hearing aids don’t mix.
But don’t panic. With the right approach, you can often prevent lasting damage and get back to the sounds and connections that matter most.
At A Better Ear, we know that hearing aids aren’t just about better hearing – they’re about reconnecting you to the people and moments that make life meaningful. That’s why we’re always here to help if your devices take an unexpected splash.
The first step? Take them out immediately and turn them off. If they have disposable batteries, remove them and leave the battery compartment open to help them dry out. If they’re rechargeable, don’t pop them straight onto the charger – moisture inside can cause bigger problems. Instead, give them a gentle shake to remove excess water and pat them dry with a soft cloth. Most importantly, avoid using heat sources like hairdryers or microwaves.
Some people try at-home drying methods like placing their hearing aids in a container with silica gel or even uncooked rice. While these can help in a pinch, they don’t always remove moisture trapped deep inside, which can lead to corrosion and long-term performance issues.
That’s where professional drying comes in. At A Better Ear, we use Redux, a specialised moisture removal system that safely and effectively extracts even the smallest traces of water. This vacuum technology developed especially for hearing devices dries them completely and measures the amount of trapped moisture in microlitres, helping to restore function and prevent hidden damage. Many of our patients are shocked at how much moisture Redux removes, even from hearing aids they thought were dry!
If your hearing aids stop working after water exposure, bring them in for our moisture removal and recovery service.
If they’re non-functional both before and after the treatment, there’s no charge – it’s part of our commitment to supporting the local community with best-practice hearing care.
For devices that are still working but could benefit from a thorough drying, this service is a worthwhile investment to keep your hearing aids in peak condition.
If you find yourself with damp hearing aids, don’t wait. Acting quickly can make all the difference. Drop by A Better Ear or give us a call, and we’ll help ensure your hearing aids – and the connections they bring – are back to their best in no time.
