Why Hearing Aid Maintenance Matters
Hearing aids are sophisticated electronic devices that live in one of the harshest environments possible — the ear canal. They're exposed daily to earwax, moisture, skin oils, dust, and humidity. Without regular care, this buildup can muffle sound, block the microphone, clog the receiver, and ultimately cause the device to fail prematurely.
The good news: a consistent daily routine takes just a few minutes and can significantly extend the lifespan of your investment.
The Golden Rules of Hearing Aid Care
- Never wear your hearing aids in the shower, swimming, or bath — even water-resistant models are not waterproof
- Remove them before using hairspray or other aerosols — chemicals can damage the microphone and casing
- Keep them away from extreme heat — don't leave them in a car on a sunny day or near a heater
- Handle them over a soft surface — if they slip, a towel or padded mat can prevent damage from a fall
- Wash your hands before handling — clean hands reduce the transfer of oils and bacteria
Daily Cleaning Routine
At Night (Before Storing)
- Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth or a hearing aid cleaning wipe to remove earwax and oils.
- Inspect the sound outlet and microphone openings for wax or debris. Use the small wax loop or brush included with your device to gently clear blockages.
- Replace the wax guard/filter if your device uses one and it appears clogged — this is the most common cause of reduced sound output.
- Open the battery door (for disposable battery models) to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. This also conserves battery life.
- Store in a protective case or drying box away from humidity.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Once a week, spend a few extra minutes on a more thorough clean:
- Earmolds and domes: Detach and wash with mild soap and warm water. Dry completely before reattaching — moisture in the tube can dampen sound quality.
- Tubing (BTE models): Check for discoloration, cracks, or hardening. Replace tubing every 3–6 months or as recommended by your audiologist.
- Brush all crevices using the small brush tool, paying attention to vent openings and the microphone ports.
Using a Hearing Aid Dryer or Dehumidifier
Electronic drying boxes and UV sanitizers are a worthwhile investment, especially if you live in a humid climate or sweat heavily. Options include:
- Passive desiccant jars: Affordable containers with moisture-absorbing crystals. Replace crystals regularly.
- Electric dryers: Gently warm the device overnight to evaporate internal moisture. Some models also use UV light to sanitize.
Place your hearing aids in the dryer each night as part of your routine — even brief exposure to a dryer can make a meaningful difference in longevity.
Battery Care Tips
- Store spare disposable batteries at room temperature — avoid refrigerators, which can cause condensation
- Remove the tab on zinc-air batteries and wait one minute before inserting — this allows the battery to activate properly
- For rechargeable models, charge fully each night and avoid letting the battery completely drain repeatedly
When to See Your Audiologist
Even with diligent home care, schedule professional cleanings with your audiologist every 3–6 months. They have specialized tools to safely remove deep wax deposits, check tubing and domes, and recalibrate your device settings. If you notice a sudden change in sound quality, feedback/whistling that won't stop, or physical damage, contact your provider promptly — early repair is always less costly than replacement.