Understanding IP68 Protection in Hearing Aids means:
When researching hearing aids, you’ll likely come across technical terms that seem confusing at first. One rating you’ll see often is “IP68.” While it may look like just a small code, it represents a major advancement in hearing aid durability. Knowing what IP68 means helps you understand exactly what your hearing aids can—and can’t—handle, so you can use them confidently without guessing their limits.
Breaking Down the IP Rating System
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating is an international standard that measures how well an electronic device is protected against dust, dirt, and water. Think of it as a durability scorecard.
The first digit (0–6) measures protection against solids such as dust. The second digit (0–9) measures protection against liquids, primarily water. Higher numbers mean better protection.
What IP68 Means for Hearing Aids
IP68 is the highest level of dust protection and one of the highest levels of water resistance for consumer electronics.
6 = Completely dust-tight—no particles can enter. 8 = Withstands continuous immersion in fresh water (up to 1 meter for 1 hour in lab tests).
For hearing aid wearers, this means:
Dust, sand, and dirt can’t reach the sensitive electronics. Your devices can survive accidental water exposure, like heavy rain or a drop in the sink.
This is a huge improvement from hearing aids of even a few years ago, which were far more vulnerable to sweat, humidity, and dust.
Real-World Benefits of IP68
Moisture protection is especially valuable for active lifestyles. Whether you’re exercising, working outdoors, or living in hot, humid conditions, IP68-rated hearing aids can withstand sweat and sudden weather changes.
Dust resistance is equally important—especially in dry, dusty regions—protecting your devices during yard work, construction, or simply daily life in arid climates.
Current IP68-Rated Hearing Aids We Recommend
Many leading hearing aid manufacturers now offer IP68-rated models, including:
Phonak Audéo Infinio (including the Sphere edition) – advanced sound processing with full environmental protection. Starkey Edge AI – rechargeable, AI-powered hearing aids with integrated waterproofing. ReSound Vivia – compact yet fully IP68 protected. Widex Allure – IP68 with an additional all-weather coating on every component.
These options show you no longer have to choose between performance and durability.
The Limits of IP68 Protection
While impressive, IP68 isn’t invincible.
Testing is done in fresh water under controlled lab conditions—chlorinated pools, saltwater, soap, and shampoo can still cause damage. The rating only works if all seals are intact. Cracks, worn battery doors, or loose components can compromise protection. Extreme temperature changes can create condensation that bypasses seals.
Caring for Your IP68 Hearing Aids
To keep your devices protected:
Clean daily to remove sweat, oils, and debris. Have regular professional maintenance, including seal inspections and moisture removal with specialized equipment (e.g., Redux dehydration systems). Follow charging guidelines—charging contacts are not IP68 rated and require proper care.
Why Professional Fitting Matters for Durability
A secure, comfortable fit isn’t just about sound—it also helps maintain your hearing aids’ protective seals.
How Manufacturers Test IP68 Hearing Aids
Brands like Starkey and Oticon put their devices through over 135 durability tests, simulating extreme real-world conditions well beyond IP standards. This ensures your hearing aids can handle more than the official rating suggests.
Going Beyond IP68 – How Some Brands Deliver “IP68+” Protection
While IP68 is the highest official rating, some hearing aid manufacturers go even further in their testing and design. For example, Starkey conducts rigorous in-house testing that exceeds the standard IP68 requirements to ensure their devices perform under more extreme conditions than the rating covers. I have been to the Starkey Laboratories in Eden Prairie USA and seen this done in front of my own eyes and it is impressive the beyond standard tests they perform to achieve maximum endurance of their products far beyond the Standard
Starkey’s process includes:
Extended immersion tests in water deeper and for longer durations than the IP68 specification. Saltwater and chlorinated water exposure simulations to mimic real-world swimming pool and ocean environments. High-humidity chamber cycles that replicate tropical climates over prolonged periods. Accelerated aging tests, where devices are exposed to heat, sweat, and dust in rapid cycles to simulate years of wear in a matter of weeks. Drop and impact testing to ensure structural integrity even after accidental knocks or falls.
These additional stress tests help create what could be called “IP68+” performance—meaning while the official IP code stops at 68, the device’s real-world resilience often goes far beyond. For the wearer, this translates to extra peace of mind and longer-lasting reliability in challenging environments.
The Bottom Line
IP68-rated hearing aids offer a powerful combination of performance and resilience but they are not Bulletproof and when paired with proper professional fitting and reasonable care by the end user to make sure they do not become damaged therefore compromising the devices or wearing them past reasonable acceptable standards of wear (I would not wear them swimming etc.). They deliver reliable hearing support in challenging environments but not impervious to moisture regardless of any particular brands advertising “suggesting” that they are.
If you want hearing aids that match your lifestyle—whether that means surviving summer monsoons, desert dust, or an active fitness routine—we can help. We’ll evaluate your hearing, discuss your daily activities, and recommend the best IP68-rated options for your needs.