How to Clean and Maintain Your Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are designed to be used every day, often for many hours at a time. Because they sit close to the ear, they can naturally come into contact with earwax, moisture, skin oils, dust and other debris.
Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep your hearing aids working properly, comfortable to wear and performing as intended.
So, how do you clean hearing aids safely?
The answer depends on the type of hearing aid you use, but most hearing aids need simple daily care, regular cleaning of the parts that come into contact with the ear, and occasional professional servicing.
In this guide, we explain how to clean and maintain your hearing aids, what to avoid and when it is time to have them professionally checked.
Why Is It Important to Clean Your Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are small electronic devices that need to work reliably in a challenging environment.
Your ears naturally produce earwax, and your skin produces oils and moisture. Over time, these can build up on parts of the hearing aid.
Dirt or wax can affect:
Sound quality
Volume
Speech clarity
Microphone performance
The receiver or speaker
The fit of the device
Battery life
Overall reliability
A hearing aid that is not cleaned regularly may begin to sound quieter or distorted.
In some cases, people assume their hearing has suddenly become worse when the actual problem is a blocked wax filter or dirty hearing-aid component.
Regular maintenance can help prevent avoidable problems.
How Often Should You Clean Your Hearing Aids?
A simple cleaning routine should usually be part of your everyday hearing-aid care.
You can quickly inspect your hearing aids each day for visible wax, moisture or debris.
A more thorough cleaning may be needed every few days or according to the instructions for your particular hearing aids.
Your hearing professional can also advise you about how often your devices should receive professional cleaning and servicing.
The exact routine depends on the hearing-aid style, your level of earwax production, how much you use the devices and your environment.
How to Clean Hearing Aids Step by Step
Although hearing aids vary, the following general routine is suitable for many modern devices.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hands
Before handling your hearing aids, wash your hands and dry them thoroughly.
This helps prevent dirt and moisture from being transferred onto the device.
Step 2: Inspect the Hearing Aid
Look carefully at the hearing aid.
Check for:
Earwax
Dust
Moisture
Debris
Damage
Blocked openings
Pay particular attention to the parts that sit inside or close to the ear.
Step 3: Clean the Ear Tip or Dome
If your hearing aid has a removable dome or ear tip, check it for wax and debris.
Clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Some removable components can be cleaned separately, while others should be replaced rather than washed.
If you are unsure, ask your hearing-care professional.
Step 4: Check the Wax Filter
Many hearing aids have a small wax filter designed to prevent earwax from reaching the speaker or receiver.
If the filter becomes blocked, sounds may become quieter or distorted.
A blocked wax filter may also make you think your hearing aid is no longer working properly.
Your hearing professional can show you how to check and replace the filter safely.
Step 5: Clean the Microphone Openings
Microphones are essential because they pick up sounds from the environment.
If microphone openings become blocked with dirt or debris, the performance of your hearing aids can be affected.
Use only the cleaning tools recommended for your hearing aids.
Do not push objects into the microphone openings.
Step 6: Wipe the Hearing Aid
Use a clean, dry, soft cloth to wipe the outside of the hearing aid.
Avoid using household cleaning sprays, alcohol-based products or other chemicals unless the manufacturer specifically says they are safe for your device.
Can You Wash Hearing Aids With Water?
Generally, you should not expose standard hearing aids to water unless the manufacturer specifically states that the device is designed for that level of water exposure.
Even hearing aids advertised as water resistant have specific limits.
Water resistance does not necessarily mean waterproof.
Do not deliberately:
Put your hearing aids under a tap
Shower while wearing them unless specifically designed for it
Swim with them unless approved for that use
Soak them in water
Clean the electronic components with water
Moisture can damage the electronics.
If a removable component is designed to be washed separately, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
What Should You Never Use to Clean Hearing Aids?
It can be tempting to use household products to clean small electronic devices.
This is not recommended.
Avoid using:
Household cleaning sprays
Bleach
Strong detergents
Solvents
Oils
Excessive alcohol
Sharp objects
Pins
Needles
Cotton buds pushed into openings
Compressed air unless specifically recommended
Your hearing aids contain delicate components.
Using the wrong cleaning method can cause damage.
Can Cotton Buds Damage Hearing Aids?
Cotton buds can sometimes push wax deeper into the device or ear.
They can also leave small fibres behind.
For this reason, avoid pushing cotton buds into openings in your hearing aids or into your ear canal.
Use the cleaning brush or tools supplied or recommended for your hearing aids.
If earwax is causing repeated problems, ask a hearing-care professional about appropriate earwax management.
How Do You Clean Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids?
Behind-the-ear hearing aids have an electronic unit that sits behind the ear and a tube, receiver wire or other component that connects to the ear.
The exact cleaning method depends on the model.
Generally, you can wipe the external surfaces with a dry, soft cloth and inspect the part entering the ear for wax.
If the device has a detachable earmould or other washable component, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning it.
Do not put the electronic portion of the hearing aid into water.
If the tubing becomes blocked or discoloured, it may need professional replacement.
How Do You Clean In-the-Ear Hearing Aids?
In-the-ear hearing aids sit directly inside the outer ear or ear canal.
Because they are closer to earwax, they can require particularly careful cleaning.
Inspect the sound outlet and wax filter regularly.
Use the recommended brush or cleaning tool to remove visible debris.
Do not push wax further into the device.
If you cannot remove the blockage safely, take the hearing aid to a hearing-care professional.
What If My Hearing Aids Get Wet?
Accidental exposure to a small amount of moisture does not always mean that your hearing aids are permanently damaged.
If your hearing aids become wet, remove them and dry the exterior carefully.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying the device.
Do not use a hairdryer or place the hearing aids directly next to a radiator or other strong heat source.
Excessive heat can damage hearing-aid components.
If the device stops working after becoming wet, arrange a professional inspection.
How Can You Protect Hearing Aids From Moisture?
Moisture is one of the common challenges faced by hearing-aid users.
You may encounter moisture from:
Sweat
Rain
Humidity
Condensation
Showering
Exercise
Damp environments
When not in use, store your hearing aids somewhere dry and safe.
Some hearing-aid users also benefit from a hearing-aid drying or dehumidifying system.
Ask your hearing professional whether one is appropriate for your devices.
What About Earwax?
Earwax is one of the most common reasons hearing-aid users experience problems.
Wax can collect around the hearing-aid tip, dome, mould or wax filter.
If you produce a lot of earwax, you may need to check your hearing aids more frequently.
However, avoid trying to remove deep earwax from your ears with cotton buds or other objects.
If you suspect a significant blockage, arrange a professional assessment.
How Do I Know If My Hearing Aid Needs Cleaning?
Your hearing aids may need cleaning or maintenance if you notice:
The sound is quieter than usual
Speech sounds muffled
Sound becomes distorted
One hearing aid sounds different from the other
The device intermittently cuts out
You hear crackling
The hearing aid whistles
The battery appears to drain unusually quickly
The hearing aid does not seem to be working properly
Before assuming that the hearing aid is faulty, check whether the wax filter or other accessible component is blocked.
If the problem continues, have the device professionally checked.
Why Does One Hearing Aid Sound Quieter Than the Other?
If one hearing aid suddenly becomes quieter, several things could be responsible.
For example:
The wax filter may be blocked
The microphone may be dirty
The receiver may contain debris
The device may have moisture inside
The battery may be weak
The hearing-aid settings may have changed
Your hearing may have changed
There may be a technical fault
Start with the basic checks recommended for your hearing-aid model.
If one side remains noticeably quieter, contact your hearing professional.
It is important not to assume that the problem is simply your hearing.
How Often Should Hearing Aid Batteries Be Replaced?
If you use traditional disposable batteries, the replacement frequency depends on the hearing-aid model, battery size, hours of daily use and other factors.
If you use rechargeable hearing aids, the rechargeable battery is designed to be charged regularly.
Your hearing professional can explain how long your particular hearing aids should normally operate between charges or battery changes.
If battery life suddenly becomes much shorter than usual, the hearing aids should be checked.
How Should You Store Hearing Aids at Night?
When you remove your hearing aids at night, store them in a clean, dry and secure location.
If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding battery storage and whether the battery compartment should be left open.
If you use rechargeable hearing aids, place them in the charging station according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Keep hearing aids away from:
Children
Pets
Water
Extreme heat
Excessive humidity
Loose household objects that could damage them
A protective case can be useful when travelling.
Can I Wear Hearing Aids in the Shower?
Unless your specific hearing aids are designed and approved for shower use, you should remove them before showering.
Even devices with water-resistance ratings have limits.
Water, soap and shampoo can potentially damage hearing-aid components.
It is safer to follow the manufacturer’s water-resistance guidance rather than assuming that a device labelled “water resistant” is waterproof.
Can I Sleep With Hearing Aids?
Many people remove their hearing aids before sleeping.
Unless your hearing professional or manufacturer specifically recommends otherwise, removing them at night allows you to inspect and clean the devices and gives your ears a break from wearing them.
Keeping hearing aids in a safe, dry place overnight also makes it easier to establish a regular charging or maintenance routine.
How Often Should Hearing Aids Be Professionally Serviced?
The appropriate service schedule varies between hearing aids and users.
Regular professional checks can help identify problems with:
Sound quality
Batteries
Charging
Wax filters
Microphones
Receivers
Physical damage
Fit
Programming
You should also arrange a check whenever you notice a significant change in performance.
You do not have to wait for a scheduled service if something is not working correctly.
What Happens During a Hearing-Aid Service?
A professional hearing-aid service may include cleaning the devices, inspecting components, checking their performance and replacing consumable parts where necessary.
Your hearing professional may also review how well the hearing aids are working for you and whether the settings remain appropriate.
If your hearing has changed, you may also need a hearing assessment.
How Long Do Hearing Aids Last?
The lifespan of hearing aids varies depending on the technology, build quality, usage, maintenance and how well they are cared for.
Regular cleaning and appropriate maintenance can help you get the best possible performance from your devices.
Eventually, however, hearing aids may need repair or replacement.
If your hearing aids are becoming unreliable, difficult to maintain or no longer meeting your hearing needs, discuss your options with your hearing professional.
When Should I Contact a Hearing Professional?
You should arrange professional advice if:
Your hearing aid suddenly stops working
One device becomes much quieter
You experience persistent feedback
The hearing aid becomes uncomfortable
You notice significant distortion
Your hearing changes suddenly
You repeatedly experience blocked wax filters
The device has been exposed to significant moisture
Cleaning does not resolve the problem
You are unsure how to clean your hearing aids
Professional support can prevent a small problem from becoming a bigger one.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my hearing aids?
Inspect your hearing aids every day and clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some components may need more frequent attention depending on earwax and moisture levels.
Can I clean hearing aids with alcohol wipes?
Do not assume that alcohol wipes are safe for your hearing aids. Some materials and coatings can be damaged by certain cleaning products. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or ask your hearing professional.
Can water damage hearing aids?
Yes. Standard hearing aids can be damaged by water and excessive moisture. Even water-resistant devices have specific limitations, so follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
Why does my hearing aid sound muffled?
A blocked wax filter, dirty microphone, moisture, a blocked receiver or a change in your hearing can cause muffled sound. Check the components you are able to clean safely and seek professional help if the problem continues.
How often should I replace my hearing-aid wax filter?
The frequency depends on how much earwax you produce and the specific hearing-aid model. Check the filter regularly and replace it when it becomes blocked according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can earwax damage hearing aids?
Earwax can build up around components such as the dome, mould, receiver or wax filter and affect performance. Regular cleaning and appropriate earwax management can help reduce problems.
The Bottom Line
Looking after your hearing aids does not have to be complicated.
Regular inspection, careful cleaning, protection from moisture and professional servicing can all help keep your devices working effectively.
The most important rule is to follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions for your specific hearing aids. Different devices have different designs, materials and levels of water resistance.
If your hearing aids become quieter, distorted, uncomfortable or unreliable despite cleaning, do not assume that they need replacing.
A professional hearing-aid check can often identify the problem and determine whether the device simply needs cleaning, a new filter, a fitting adjustment, servicing or further assessment.
Taking a few minutes to care for your hearing aids regularly can help you get the most from them and enjoy clearer, more comfortable hearing every day.