Did you know your hearing aid cleaning and care routine can extend the lifespan of your devices and keep them functioning at their peak? Prescription hearing aids are durable and high-performing devices that enhance daily life. But like any other item you use every day, they work best when properly cared for.
In this guide, you’ll find easy-to-follow checklists for proper hearing aid cleaning and care, so you can keep your devices in top condition for years to come.
Must-Have Hearing Aid Cleaning Tools
When cleaning your hearing aids at home, you’ll need a few tools to help you get the job done. Here are some basic hearing aid cleaning supplies to get you started:
- Cleaning brush: Helps gently remove debris from microphone ports, sound outlets, and small crevices
- Wax picks and loops: Small, specialized tools used to extract earwax from hard-to-reach places
- Drying kit or dehumidifier: Removes moisture that can accumulate with everyday use, preventing corrosion
- Microfiber cloth: Soft, dry, and non-abrasive cloth for wiping away debris
- Vent cleaner: Helps clean wax and debris from the vents without damaging any internal components
- Hearing aid wipes: Pre-moistened, alcohol-free wipes used for cleaning the surface of your hearing aids
To avoid damaging your hearing aids, be sure to only use cleaning tools that are made for hearing aids specifically.
How to Properly Clean Your Hearing Aids
Even the most advanced hearing aids need regular cleaning and care to stay functional. Built-up earwax or moisture can gradually impact performance, comfort, and sound clarity over time. Fortunately, a simple cleaning routine is all it takes to prevent buildup and keep the sound quality crystal clear.
Below, we explain how to properly clean your hearing aids and provide tips to keep them in tip-top shape for years to come.
Daily Hearing Aid Cleaning Checklist
Your hearing aids need daily care to work properly. These daily cleaning tasks help keep your devices comfortable and functional:
- Wash and dry your hands: Before handling your hearing aids, always wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
- Wipe down casing: Gently wipe the outer shell using a clean, soft, and dry cloth. You can also use a specialized wipe or hearing aid cleaning solution. Never use alcohol, water, or harsh cleaners.
- Check for earwax or debris: Inspect your devices for debris or wax buildup. Remove with wax removal tools or brushes.
- Leave the battery door open: Remove batteries and leave the battery door open overnight to air out any moisture.
- Use a dehumidifier or drying kit: Store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier or drying kit overnight to remove any moisture that may have accumulated throughout the day.
Hearing aids come in many different styles. Your devices may require specific cleaning tools and/or techniques to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The hearing care specialists at American Ear in are available to answer any questions you may have.
Weekly Hearing Aid Cleaning Checklist
Once a week, your devices need a more thorough cleaning to remain in top condition:
- Clean ear molds or domes: If your hearing aids use removable domes or ear molds, detach them and clean them using specialized hearing aid wipes or a cleaner. Make sure they’re completely dry before reattaching.
- Inspect tubing: For behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, check the tubing for moisture, blockages, or cracks and clean as needed.
- Clean battery contacts: Use a dry cotton swab to gently clean the battery contacts to remove any moisture or debris to ensure a strong connection and reliable power.
Monthly Hearing Aid Care Checklist
Once a month, it’s a good idea to give your hearing aids some extra attention to ensure everything is working properly. Below are some simple monthly care tasks:
- Change wax filters: Wax filters (also known as wax traps or guards) are the plastic screens that go over the sound outlet of your hearing aid. They need to be changed every 6-8 weeks or so.
- Restock or replace supplies: Take inventory of your hearing aid batteries (if applicable) and cleaning supplies. Restocking before you run out completely ensures you always have the tools you need to use and care for your devices.
- Check for software or firmware updates: If your hearing aids have a smartphone app or wireless capabilities, check for any available updates. Keeping the software up to date can improve performance.
Professional Hearing Aid Deep Cleaning
In addition to routine at-home care, your hearing aids need professional cleaning and maintenance. At a clean and check appointment, your specialist will give your devices a deep cleaning, inspect them for damage, test their performance, and fix minor issues.
These appointments are essential for keeping your hearing aids in peek working order long-term. In fact, studies show that people who regularly attend their appointments experience much fewer issues with their devices than those who don’t.1
Schedule a clean and check appointment every 3-4 months, or sooner if needed.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Your Hearing Aids
Today’s hearing aids are more durable than ever, and some advanced models like the Genesis AI and Edge AI are even waterproof up to 3 feet. However, they are still electronic devices, and proper care is essential to maximizing their performance and lifespan.
Below are some tips for maintaining your hearing aids long-term.
Wash Hands Before Handling
Our hands carry oils, dirt and residue from lotions, which can all transfer onto your hearing aids. Over time, this can corrode the surface or clog tiny openings like microphones and receiver ports.
Washing your hands before handling your hearing aids helps keep them clean and protects them from contamination.
Remove Hearing Aids During Certain Activities
Hearing aids are built to withstand daily use, but there are some activities that can damage them. Remove your hearing aids while:
- Participating in high-impact sports
- Showering, swimming, or bathing
- Using a hair dryer
- Using a sauna or steam room
- Sleeping
If you’re unsure which activities are suitable for hearing aids, contact the hearing care specialist at American Ear in for personalized guidance.
Keep Them Away from Chemicals
Chemicals in hairspray, hair gel, perfumes, and other scented products can damage your hearing aids, especially over time. Consider putting them in after you apply these products to minimize exposure.
Store Your Hearing Aids Properly
Proper hearing aid storage is essential for protecting your devices from damage. When you’re not wearing your hearing aids, store them in their proper charging or carrying case, or in a dehumidifier. You should also keep them in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
Get Your Hearing Aids Cleaned and Checked at American Ear in
Prescription hearing aids are incredibly durable and built to be worn every day. By keeping up with regular cleaning and maintenance, you can maximize the lifespan of your devices and enjoy the benefits of better hearing for years to come.
At American Ear in , our hearing care professionals offer appointments for ALL hearing aid brands, whether you purchased your devices from us or not. Contact us to schedule today.
References
- Bennett, R. J., Kosovich, E., Cohen, S., Lo, C., Logan, K., Olaithe, M., & Eikelboom, R. (2021). Hearing aid Review Appointments: Attendance and effectiveness. American Journal of Audiology, 30(4), 1058–1066. https://doi.org/10.1044/2021_aja-21-00004