Last Updated on August 21, 2025 by Jonathan Javid Au.D.
For many people of faith, baptism and other water submersion ceremonies are among the most sacred and meaningful experiences of life. For hearing aid users, these moments can bring up an important question: how do I participate safely without damaging my hearing aids?
Why Water and Hearing Aids Don’t Mix
Hearing aids are advanced electronic devices, and most are not built to withstand full submersion. Even brief contact with water during a baptism can cause:
- Condensation buildup inside the microphones and receivers.
- Corrosion of batteries or rechargeable components.
- Permanent circuit damage that voids warranty coverage.
Because of this, most manufacturers recommend removing devices before entering water.
Options for Protecting Hearing Aids During Baptism
Fortunately, there are several ways to ensure you remain part of the experience while protecting your devices:
- Remove devices beforehand – Place them in a dry, protective case and give them to a trusted family member or clergy leader to hold until the ceremony is complete.
- Use visual cues – Ask your minister or family to give clear hand signals or guiding words if you need assistance during the ceremony.
- Waterproof sleeves or covers – A few accessories claim to offer short-term moisture protection, but they are not always reliable for full immersion.
- Bring a backup pair – If you have older devices or an inexpensive backup set, consider using those for the event.
What About Waterproof Hearing Aids?
Some modern devices are marketed as waterproof hearing aids. These are designed to withstand more moisture exposure than traditional models, and in some cases, a brief baptismal submersion should be fine. However, I always recommend caution—bring your backup hearing aids just in case.
My Audiologist Perspective
As an audiologist who has counseled many patients before important life events, I recognize the tension between protecting your hearing aids and fully experiencing a sacred moment. Hearing is often vital to these occasions—you want to hear the words spoken, the music sung, and the voices of loved ones.
My professional advice: if your hearing aids are not waterproof, remove them before submersion. If you do own waterproof models, wearing them briefly in a baptism is likely safe, but always err on the side of caution. Having a backup pair available gives peace of mind in case of an unexpected issue.
Aftercare Tips
Once the ceremony is complete:
- Dry your ears thoroughly with a towel before reinserting hearing aids. Replace the wax trap on the hearing aids.
- Use a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier that evening to remove any lingering moisture.
- Check for feedback or distortion that might indicate water damage, and schedule an appointment if issues persist.