How to Clean Your Hearing Aid Properly

Your hearing aids need regular cleaning to stay effective and hygienic. Over time, earwax, moisture, and debris can build up, leading to muffled sound, feedback, or even device failure. Proper maintenance not only improves sound quality but also extends the life of your device. Here’s what you need to know:

• Tools you’ll need: Cleaning brushes, wax picks, microfiber cloths, bulb blowers, and dehumidifiers.
• Safe cleaning products: Use warm soapy water for detachable parts, specialized wipes, or distilled water. Avoid alcohol or harsh chemicals.
• Cleaning steps: Wipe surfaces daily, clean ports carefully, and dry thoroughly. For BTE models, wash earmolds separately. For ITE and RIC models, focus on dry cleaning.
• Moisture control: Use a dehumidifier overnight to protect electronics.
• Professional care: Visit an audiologist every six months for deep cleaning and maintenance.

Daily cleaning and proper care ensure your hearing aids perform well and last longer. Let’s dive into the details.

Tools and Supplies You Need

Having the right tools makes all the difference when it comes to maintaining your hearing aids. These devices contain delicate electronic components, so you’ll need supplies specifically designed for them – household cleaners just won’t cut it.

Basic Cleaning Tools

• Cleaning brushes: These are designed to gently remove earwax and debris from sound outlets and ports. Most hearing aids come with a cleaning brush, but extras are easy to find if you lose or wear one out.
• Wax picks or loops: These small tools are perfect for cleaning out stubborn earwax from vents and sound outlets. Their thin, wire-like design with a loop or pick at the end allows for precise cleaning. Just be careful – apply light pressure and don’t push the tool too far in.
• Microfiber cloths: For safely cleaning the outer surfaces of your hearing aid, microfiber cloths are your go-to. Unlike tissues or towels, they won’t leave behind fibers that could clog your device or scratch its surface. It’s a good idea to dedicate one cloth solely to your hearing aids to keep them free from oils or debris.
• Bulb blowers: These handy tools use gentle air pressure to remove debris from tricky areas like microphone ports or battery compartments.
• Dehumidifiers or drying containers: Moisture is a hearing aid’s worst enemy. Using a dehumidifier or a desiccant container overnight can help remove moisture and prevent corrosion, especially if you live in a humid area or lead an active lifestyle.

If dry cleaning tools don’t do the job, it’s time to turn to safe cleaning products for a deeper clean.

Safe Cleaning Products

Sometimes, a little moisture is necessary to clean your hearing aids, but it’s essential to use the right products. The rule of thumb? Less is more. Stick to these safe options:

• Warm soapy water: This works well for cleaning BTE (behind-the-ear) earmolds that can be detached from the hearing aid. Use a mild dish soap mixed with lukewarm water to clean oils, earwax, and bacteria. Make sure the water isn’t too hot and only use this method for parts designed to handle moisture.
• Specialized hearing aid cleaning wipes: Pre-moistened wipes made specifically for hearing aids are a great option for quick, daily cleaning. They’re safe for the materials and won’t leave behind any harmful residue – perfect for on-the-go use.
• Distilled water: If soap isn’t needed, distilled water can be used sparingly. Unlike tap water, it doesn’t contain minerals that could leave deposits on your hearing aid. Use it with a damp cloth for gentle cleaning of the exterior, but never submerge any electronic parts.

What to Avoid

• Alcohol, harsh chemicals, or cleaning solvents: These can damage your hearing aid’s protective coatings, crack plastic parts, or seep into electronic components, causing irreversible damage. Even mild household cleaners are too risky.

And remember, water and electronics don’t mix. While earmolds and certain external parts can handle moisture, the main body of your hearing aid should always stay dry. If you’re unsure about a cleaning method or product, consult your hearing care professional to avoid accidental damage.

How to Clean Your Hearing Aid

Once you’ve gathered your cleaning supplies, it’s time to start cleaning your hearing aids. Keep in mind that different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning methods. Follow the steps that apply to your specific device.

Cleaning Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

BTE hearing aids are generally straightforward to clean since the earmold can be detached and washed. Here’s how to clean them step by step:

Start with clean hands. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your hearing aids.

Wipe the main unit. Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently clean the main unit, focusing on areas that come into contact with your skin.

Detach and clean the earmold. Remove the earmold or dome from the earhook or tubing. If the earmold doesn’t contain a speaker, wash it in warm, soapy water. For earmolds with speakers, use a wire loop for cleaning instead. For dome-style tips, simply wipe them clean with a cloth. After washing, brush the earmold to remove any remaining debris, and use a wax pick or wire loop to clear out stubborn buildup. Avoid chemical cleaners unless they’re specifically designed for earmolds.

Dry thoroughly. Shake out excess water from the earmold and tubing. Use a bulb blower to remove any water from the tubing, then allow everything to dry completely overnight.

Reassemble when dry. Once everything is completely dry, reconnect the tubing and earmold. Any trapped moisture could damage the electronics.

Cleaning Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

RIC hearing aids require a bit more care because the receiver is positioned directly in the ear canal, making it prone to earwax and moisture buildup.

Clean the receiver dome. Gently brush away earwax from the receiver dome while supporting the delicate receiver wire. If the dome is removable, detach it for a more thorough cleaning, but handle it carefully to avoid damaging the receiver.

Replace the dome tips regularly. To maintain hygiene and sound quality, replace the dome tips monthly.

Keep electronics dry. The receiver contains sensitive components that should never come into contact with water. Stick to dry cleaning methods for this part of the hearing aid.

Wipe the main unit. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the behind-the-ear portion, paying close attention to the ports.

Cleaning In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

Since ITE hearing aids sit entirely within the ear, they’re more exposed to earwax and moisture, requiring daily cleaning.

Wipe the surface and ports. Use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the entire surface. When cleaning sound ports, gently invert the device so debris falls away. Use a cleaning brush to remove debris from the sound outlet and microphone ports, but avoid pushing the brush in too deeply.

Avoid water exposure. ITE hearing aids house sensitive electronics throughout the shell. Never expose them to water, as even slight submersion can damage the internal components. Stick to dry cleaning methods.

Daily care matters. Regular cleaning helps keep your hearing aids in good working condition, preventing small issues from becoming bigger problems.

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Daily and Long-Term Care

Taking care of your hearing aids daily and over the long term can make a big difference in how well they perform and how long they last.

Daily and Weekly Cleaning Schedule

A few minutes of daily care can save you from common issues down the road. Every day, take two minutes to wipe the surfaces of your hearing aids with a microfiber cloth and check the battery compartment for any signs of moisture. Once a week, set aside time to replace dome tips and inspect the tubing for wear or blockages.

For users of behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, weekly cleaning should include detaching and thoroughly washing the earmolds (as described earlier). Don’t forget to clean your storage case with a damp cloth as part of this routine.

Consistency is key. Missing a day won’t cause major problems, but neglecting cleaning for a week can lead to wax buildup that affects sound quality.

Moisture Control and Drying

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to your hearing aids, particularly in humid climates or if you lead an active lifestyle. After cleaning, take steps to keep your devices dry.

An electronic dehumidifier can be a game-changer. These small devices, about the size of a smartphone, use gentle heat and air circulation to safely remove moisture. Each night, place your hearing aids in the dehumidifier with the battery compartments open to ensure proper airflow.

For a more budget-friendly option, desiccant packets can help absorb moisture. Be sure to replace them every few months, as they lose effectiveness once they harden. Avoid using rice or other household items – they can leave behind particles that may damage your devices.

If your hearing aids have advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or rechargeable batteries, moisture control becomes even more important. These features generate extra heat during use and include additional components that are more vulnerable to moisture. In such cases, investing in a high-quality dehumidifier is worth considering.

Professional Cleaning Services

While daily care is essential, professional maintenance ensures your hearing aids stay in top condition. Plan to visit an audiologist or hearing aid specialist every six months for a thorough cleaning and check-up.

Professional cleanings go beyond what you can do at home. Specialists can remove stubborn buildup, clean internal components, inspect for wear, update software, and optimize battery performance. If you live in a dusty environment, exercise frequently, or produce more earwax, you might benefit from quarterly cleanings instead of the standard six-month interval.

Some providers offer cleaning packages that include replacement parts like domes, wax guards, or tubing at reduced costs. Investing in regular professional care not only extends the life of your hearing aids but also helps maintain clear, reliable sound quality over time.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with a solid cleaning routine, hearing aids can still present some challenges. Knowing how to handle these common issues can save you time and help you avoid unnecessary trips to your audiologist.

Fixing Common Cleaning Issues

One of the most frequent problems is wax buildup. If your hearing aids sound muffled, check the sound ports for obstructions. Use a wax pick to gently remove any buildup. For hardened wax, a slightly damp brush can help loosen and clear it away.

Another issue is blocked sound ports, which can weaken or silence your device. Hold the ports up to a light to spot blockages. For behind-the-ear (BTE) models, detach the earmold and rinse it with warm water. For in-the-ear (ITE) devices, a thin cleaning wire can help clear the opening.

Moisture damage often shows up as crackling sounds or intermittent audio. If you notice these symptoms, remove the batteries and place the hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight. Avoid using heat sources, as they can cause further damage.

If you experience feedback or whistling after cleaning, it may mean something isn’t seated properly. Double-check that all components are secure and completely dry. If the issue persists, replacing the ear domes might solve the problem.

Lastly, battery corrosion can be identified by white or green buildup in the battery compartment. Use a dry cotton swab to clean this buildup. If the corrosion has spread to the metal contacts, it’s best to seek professional repair.

These simple solutions can keep your devices running smoothly between regular cleanings.

Personal Hygiene Tips

Your ear health plays a big role in how well your hearing aids work. Keeping your ears clean can reduce maintenance issues and improve performance.

When washing your ears, stick to cleaning the outer part with a washcloth during your shower routine. Avoid using cotton swabs inside the ear canal, as they can push wax further in, leading to more buildup on your hearing aids. If you struggle with excessive earwax, consider using approved ear drop treatments.

For the best results, clean your ears in the evening to allow them to fully dry before wearing your hearing aids.

If you have oily skin or exercise regularly, pay extra attention to cleaning the parts of your hearing aids that touch your skin. Wipe the outer surfaces daily with a microfiber cloth to prevent oil and dirt from accumulating.

Injoy Hearing Support Services

Injoy Hearing offers services designed to complement your at-home maintenance routine. If cleaning problems persist, their support services can help, including activation appointments, extended warranties, remote assistance, and a 45-day return policy.

During activation appointments, you’ll receive step-by-step cleaning instructions tailored to your specific hearing aid model. Whether you use a Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio, Signia Pure Charge&Go, ReSound Vivia, or Starkey Genesis AI, these sessions ensure you know how to properly maintain your devices.

For more complicated cleaning issues or internal maintenance, Injoy Hearing’s loss and damage protection offers peace of mind. This coverage is especially valuable for advanced hearing aids with features like AI, Bluetooth connectivity, and rechargeable batteries, which require specialized care.

With these resources, you can keep your hearing aids in excellent condition and enjoy consistent performance.

Conclusion

Taking a few minutes each day to clean your hearing aids can go a long way in keeping them working their best and lasting longer. Regular cleaning helps avoid common problems like wax buildup, moisture damage, and clogged sound ports that can interfere with performance.

It’s important to adjust your cleaning routine based on your specific device and use the right tools – like soft brushes, wax picks, and microfiber cloths – to protect your hearing aids. A consistent cleaning habit not only keeps your device functioning smoothly but also lowers the chances of needing frequent repairs.

For those times when at-home cleaning doesn’t quite do the job, professional help can be a game-changer. Injoy Hearing offers expert assistance for cleaning and maintenance, with licensed audiologists ready to help when more advanced care is needed. Their support works hand-in-hand with your daily routine to ensure your hearing aids deliver clear, reliable performance.

FAQs

What should I do if my hearing aid isn’t working properly even after cleaning it?

If your hearing aid isn’t working properly even after cleaning, take a closer look for any visible issues. Check for signs of damage, corrosion, or debris on the battery contacts. Also, ensure the batteries are inserted correctly, or swap them out for a fresh set to rule out battery-related problems.

Still not working? Reach out to your hearing care provider. They can handle professional cleanings, inspect for internal damage, and address any electronic issues. Avoid trying to fix complex problems on your own – it could lead to more harm than good.

How can I keep my hearing aids safe from moisture in humid weather or during physical activities?

To keep your hearing aids safe from moisture in humid weather or during physical activities, try using a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying box overnight. These devices help remove any moisture buildup, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring your hearing aids work properly.

For extra protection, you might want to use water-resistant covers or sleeves when exercising or spending time outdoors. It’s also essential to remove your hearing aids before activities like swimming, showering, or anything involving water. A quick wipe with a dry, soft cloth can further help maintain their condition, especially in humid settings.

By following these simple tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your hearing aids and keep them performing well.

What are the signs that my hearing aids need professional cleaning or maintenance?

If your hearing aids aren’t working as they should, there are a few warning signs to keep an eye on. These include muffled or unclear sound, persistent whistling or feedback noises, visible cracks or physical damage, or signs of moisture inside the device. You might also notice the battery draining faster than usual or struggling to hear conversations clearly.

When these issues arise – or if you notice a drop in sound quality – it’s smart to reach out to a professional. To keep your hearing aids in top condition, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional cleaning and check-up every 4 to 6 months.

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