Hearing aids are valuable devices that make everyday communication clearer and life more enjoyable. But like all devices that sit close to your body, they need regular care to stay in good working condition. Proper hearing aid maintenance not only keeps your device performing at its best but also extends its lifespan.
One of the most important aspects of care is cleaning. Earwax, moisture, dirt, and sweat can build up on your hearing aids over time, causing sound quality issues or even damaging delicate parts. Knowing how to clean hearing aids properly can save you costly repairs and keep your device hygienic and comfortable to wear.
Why Cleaning Hearing Aids Is Important
Hearing aids are exposed to earwax, oil from your skin, sweat, and environmental dust. Without proper cleaning, these factors can cause:
- Reduced sound quality
- Blocked microphones or receivers (microphone & receiver care)
- Battery drain or corrosion
- Skin irritation or infections
- Costly repairs or replacements hearing aid repair services
In fact, studies show that a large percentage of hearing aid repairs are caused by earwax and moisture buildup. Regular hearing aid maintenance prevents these issues.
Daily Hearing Aid Cleaning
Just like brushing your teeth, a few minutes of daily hearing aid cleaning can make a big difference.
Steps for Daily Cleaning:
- Wash your hands before handling hearing aids.
- Wipe the device gently with a soft, dry cloth or tissue.
- Check the microphone and receiver openings for debris (hearing aid hygiene tips).
- Remove visible earwax using a cleaning brush or pick provided by your audiologist.
- Inspect for damage or cracks before placing it back in the case.
This routine prevents buildup and ensures your hearing aids remain comfortable and hygienic.
Weekly Deep Cleaning Routine
Along with daily care, a weekly cleaning routine helps tackle hidden dirt and earwax.
Steps:
- Clean the earmold or dome: Detach it (if removable) and wash it with mild soap and warm water. Let it dry completely before reattaching.
- Use a wax guard: Replace wax filters when clogged.
- Check tubing (for BTE models): Look for condensation, moisture, or blockages.
- Inspect battery contacts: Wipe gently with a dry cotton swab to remove debris.
Avoid using alcohol, harsh chemicals, or water directly on the hearing aid body, as it can damage sensitive parts.
Earwax Removal from Hearing Aid
Earwax is one of the most common reasons hearing aids stop working properly.
Tips for Safe Earwax Removal:
- Use the provided brush or wax pick to clear earwax.
- Replace wax guards regularly (every few weeks, or sooner if clogged).
- Do not insert sharp objects like pins or needles into your hearing aid.
- If buildup is severe, ask your audiologist for professional cleaning.
Maintaining ear hygiene also helps. Cleaning your ears properly prevents excess wax from transferring to your device (ear cleaning tips).
Cleaning Hearing Aid Mold (For BTE Models)
If you use a BTE hearing aid with a custom earmold, it needs extra care because earmolds often trap wax and moisture.
How to Clean Hearing Aid Molds:
- Detach the earmold from the hearing aid.
- Wash the mold in warm, soapy water. Avoid hot water as it can warp the mold.
- Use an earmold blower to remove trapped moisture.
- Allow to dry completely before reconnecting.
For stubborn buildup, your audiologist can professionally clean or replace the mold.
Hearing Aid Hygiene Best Practices
Good hearing aid hygiene goes beyond cleaning. Here are some habits to adopt:
- Store them in a dry case: Moisture is the enemy of electronics. Use a dehumidifier or drying kit overnight.
- Avoid hairspray and makeup while wearing them: Apply products first, then insert your aids.
- Never wear hearing aids in the shower or swimming pool.
- Remove them before sleeping unless advised otherwise.
- Schedule regular professional cleanings with your audiologist.
Cleaning Tools and Products for Hearing Aids
Using the right tools ensures effective and safe cleaning. Commonly recommended items include:
- Soft microfiber cloths for wiping
- Cleaning brushes with soft bristles
- Wax removal picks
- Wax guards or filters (replaceable)
- Earmold blowers for moisture removal
- Hearing aid drying boxes with UV and dehumidifying functions
These are inexpensive but essential for proper hearing aid maintenance.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Hearing Aids
- Do not use water directly on the device body.
- Avoid alcohol or cleaning wipes with harsh chemicals.
- Never insert sharp objects into openings.
- Don’t dry with a hairdryer or microwave. High heat can damage components.
Professional Hearing Aid Cleaning
Even with regular home care, it’s important to have your aids professionally cleaned every few months. Audiologists use specialized tools and suction systems to safely remove deep wax and debris.
Professional servicing also includes:
- Microphone and receiver inspection
- Tubing replacement (for BTEs)
- Checking battery contacts
- Updating or fine-tuning settings
Conclusion
Learning how to clean hearing aids properly is one of the best ways to keep them functioning optimally. A simple routine of daily hearing aid cleaning, regular earwax removal from hearing aids, and occasional deep cleaning of moulds ensures both hygiene and performance.
By following these hearing aid hygiene practices and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll extend the life of your device, save on repair costs, and enjoy consistently clear sound.
When in doubt, always consult your audiologist for personalized care and professional cleaning services.
