Are Hearing Aids Waterproof? What Brisbane’s Humidity Means for Your Devices


If you live in Capalaba, Redlands Coast or greater Brisbane, you already know how intense our humidity can be. Between summer storms, coastal air, sweat, and sudden downpours, Queensland weather is tough on technology, and hearing aids are no exception.

One of the most common questions we hear from patients is:
“Are hearing aids waterproof?”

The short answer?
Not exactly; but many modern hearing aids are highly water-resistant.

Let’s break down what that means and how Brisbane’s climate affects your devices.

Are Hearing Aids Waterproof in Australia?

Most modern hearing aids available in Australia are water-resistant, not fully waterproof.
This means they are designed to handle:
  • Sweat
  • Light rain
  • Humid environments
  • Accidental splashes
But they are not designed to:
  • Be submerged in water
  • Be worn in the shower
  • Be worn while swimming
  • Survive a washing machine cycle
If you’re searching for “waterproof hearing aids Australia,” what you’re really looking for is the IP rating.

What Is an IP Rating?

IP stands for Ingress Protection. It measures how well a device is protected against:
- Solid particles (like dust)
- Liquids (like water)

For example, many premium hearing aids are rated IP68, which means:
6 = Fully protected against dust
8 = Protected against continuous immersion (under specific test conditions)

However, and this is important, IP68 does not mean you can swim with your hearing aids on.
It means they are resistant under laboratory conditions, not real-world saltwater, chlorinated pools, or repeated soaking. 

Why Brisbane’s Humidity Is Hard on Hearing Aids

South East Queensland has:
  • High summer humidity
  • Sudden storms
  • Coastal salt air (especially near Wynnum, Wellington Point, & Cleveland)
  • Increased perspiration
Humidity creates moisture inside tiny microphone ports and battery compartments. Over time, this can lead to:
  • Corrosion
  • Distorted sound
  • Intermittent function
  • Complete device failure
We see increased hearing aid repairs in Capalaba during summer months for exactly this reason.

Can Sweat Damage Hearing Aids?

Yes - sweat is one of the biggest causes of hearing aid damage in Brisbane. Sweat contains salt, which is corrosive. 
When moisture enters the device:
  • Microphones clog
  • Receivers fail
  • Battery contacts corrode
  • Charging ports malfunction
This is especially common in:
  • Active adults
  • Outdoor workers
  • Golfers
  • Lawn bowlers
  • People exercising outdoors in Queensland heat
If you’ve ever noticed your hearing aids “cutting in and out” after being outside, moisture may be the cause.

Are Rechargeable Hearing Aids Better for Humidity?

Rechargeable hearing aids can actually be better suited to humid climates because:
- There’s no battery door to allow moisture in
- The casing is more sealed
- Many chargers include drying functions
However, rechargeable devices still require proper care in Brisbane’s climate.

How to Protect Your Hearing Aids in Brisbane Weather

If you live in Capalaba, Alexandra Hills, Cleveland or surrounding Redlands suburbs, here’s how to protect your devices.
 
1. Use a Hearing Aid Dehumidifier
A drying box or electronic dehumidifier removes moisture overnight.

2. Remove Devices Before Showering or Swimming
Even if your device is IP68 rated, remove it before:
  • Swimming
  • Showering
  • Heavy rain exposure
  • Beach visits
Saltwater is particularly damaging.

3. Wipe Them Down Daily
  • At the end of each day:
  • Gently wipe with a dry cloth
  • Check microphone openings
  • Inspect for visible moisture
This simple habit significantly extends lifespan.
 
4. Avoid Leaving Them in Hot Cars 
Queensland summer car temperatures can exceed 60°C. Heat + humidity accelerates battery degradation and internal damage.
 
5. Book Regular Maintenance Checks
Routine servicing helps identify:
  • Early corrosion
  • Wax blockage
  • Microphone damage
  • Battery performance issues
Many patients in the Redlands only seek help once devices stop working, but preventative care saves money long-term.

What Happens If Hearing Aids Get Wet?

If your hearing aids get caught in heavy rain or the shower:
    - Turn them off immediately
    - Remove batteries (if applicable)
    - Do NOT use a hairdryer
    - Place in a drying container
    - Contact your local audiologist if problems persist

Quick action can prevent permanent damage.

Signs Humidity Is Affecting Your Hearing Aids

Watch for:
  • Faint or distorted sound
  • Static noise
  • Devices switching off randomly
  • Charging issues
  • Rust in battery compartment
If you notice these signs, book a hearing aid check promptly.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid for Queensland Conditions

When selecting hearing aids in South East Queensland, consider:
  • High IP rating
  • Sealed rechargeable design
  • Nano-coating technology
  • Strong manufacturer repair support
Not all devices perform equally in humid climates.

Modern premium hearing aids are designed with humid climates like Brisbane in mind. Many manufacturers now use advanced nano-coatings, internal sealing systems, and high-grade housing materials to reduce moisture penetration. 
These technologies don’t make hearing aids fully waterproof, but they significantly improve resistance to sweat, dust and everyday moisture exposure. Your audiologist should factor Brisbane weather into your recommendation.

Your Next Steps

Taking care of your hearing aids in Brisbane's climate doesn't have to be complicated. Here's where to start:
Check your IP rating – if you're unsure what it is, we can help.
Review your daily routine – a dehumidifier and a quick wipe-down each night can make a real difference.
Book a maintenance check – especially if you've noticed any of the warning signs above.
Ask about an upgrade – older devices may lack the moisture protection that modern hearing aids offer.

Contact ER Audiology today to schedule your comprehensive hearing assessment and take a proactive step toward preserving your hearing, health, and your quality of life.

Location: Inside Indillie Clinic, Unit 4/107 Old Cleveland Rd, Capalaba QLD 4157, Australia

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