The effectiveness of commercial desiccants and uncooked rice in removing moisture from hearing aids

Abstract

Objective: In many low- and middle-income countries, the availability of hearing technology is limited, with few options for hearing aid repairs. Minimising moisture damage to hearing aid electronics improves function and longevity; however, desiccants that absorb moisture from hearing aid components are unavailable in many regions. This study compared the effectiveness of uncooked white rice and seven commercial silica gel desiccants in removing moisture from hearing aids. Design: Relative humidity measurements in a test chamber were obtained from a water-saturated BTE hearing aid prior to and after placement in uncooked white rice and seven different silica gel desiccants. Study sample: Two BTE hearing aids, seven silica gel desiccants and white rice comprised the study sample. Results: All desiccants and the white rice were effective in removing moisture from hearing aids, with Hal Hen Super Dri Aid showing the largest mean reduction in relative humidity. Based on analysis of covariance results, white rice was statistically similar to several of the commercial desiccants. Conclusions: White rice shows promise as an effective alternative to commercial desiccants in reducing moisture in hearing aids when silica gel products are unavailable. As this study was conducted in a relatively dry region, additional research may be needed.