Get Your Free Guide to Cleaning Hearing Aids

Understanding Your Hearing Aid Components and Materials

Hearing aids contain several delicate parts that work together to help people hear better. Learning about these components is the first step toward maintaining them properly. The main parts of a hearing aid include the microphone, which picks up sound from your environment; the amplifier, which makes sound louder; the receiver or speaker, which sends amplified sound into your ear; and the battery, which powers the entire device.

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Most hearing aids today are made from a combination of materials. The outer casing is typically plastic or metal, chosen to be lightweight and durable. Inside, you'll find tiny computer chips, wires, and circuits that process sound. The microphone openings are particularly small—often just 1 to 2 millimeters across—which means they can easily become blocked by earwax, dust, or moisture.

The battery compartment is another critical area. Hearing aid batteries are small button-style cells, usually size 10, 312, 13, or 675, depending on the hearing aid model. These batteries typically last between 3 to 10 days before needing replacement, though this varies based on how many hours per day you wear your aids and how much power your specific model requires.

Your hearing aid may also have a wax guard or cerumen filter—a small trap designed to catch earwax before it reaches the internal components. These filters can become full and need replacement, often every one to three months depending on how much earwax you naturally produce.

Practical takeaway: Identify which type and model of hearing aid you own, and locate the user manual that came with it. This manual contains specific information about your device's exact components and materials, which will help you understand which cleaning methods are safe for your particular hearing aids.

Daily Cleaning Routines That Protect Your Hearing Aids

A simple daily cleaning routine can significantly extend the life of your hearing aids and keep them working properly. The best time to clean your hearing aids is in the evening before you remove them for the night, when you have time to work carefully and allow them to dry fully overnight.

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Start by wiping down the exterior of each hearing aid with a soft, dry cloth or special wipe designed for hearing aids. These microfiber cloths are gentle and won't scratch the surface. Pay attention to the areas where earwax tends to accumulate—typically around the receiver tube and any openings. Gently wipe away any visible wax or debris. Never use water, alcohol-based solutions, or cleaning sprays on the main body of your hearing aid unless the manufacturer specifically states they are waterproof and provides cleaning instructions for water-based methods.

For behind-the-ear hearing aids, gently wipe the earmold—the part that goes in your ear—but avoid getting moisture near the battery compartment or microphone openings. If your hearing aid has a wax guard or filter, check it during your daily cleaning. If it appears discolored or clogged, it may need to be replaced.

Open the battery compartment each evening and leave it open overnight. This allows air to circulate inside the hearing aid and helps dry out any moisture that may have accumulated throughout the day. Many people keep their hearing aids in a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying container overnight, which uses either silica gel or mild electric heat to remove moisture. Moisture is one of the most common causes of hearing aid malfunction.

If you experience a lot of earwax buildup, your ear canal produces more wax than average, or you live in a humid climate, consider storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifying container every night rather than just leaving the battery door open. These devices are inexpensive—typically costing between $15 and $50—and can prevent costly repairs.

Practical takeaway: Set a specific time each evening for your cleaning routine, such as right after dinner or before bed. Create a dedicated spot near your sink where you keep your soft cloth and any tools you use, making the routine quick and easy to remember.

Removing and Managing Earwax Buildup Safely

Earwax is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It serves an important purpose—protecting and lubricating your ear canal—but it can cause problems when it accumulates on your hearing aids. Earwax buildup is actually the most common reason people need to have their hearing aids serviced or repaired.

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The amount of earwax a person produces varies widely. Some people produce very little, while others produce excessive amounts. If you fall into the second category, managing earwax becomes especially important for keeping your hearing aids functioning. Signs that earwax is affecting your hearing aid include reduced volume, intermittent sound cutting in and out, or a whistling noise called feedback.

For basic earwax removal from your hearing aids, use only soft tools specifically designed for this purpose. Many hearing aid manufacturers include small brushes or picks with your hearing aids when you purchase them. These tools are designed to reach tight spaces without damaging delicate components. A soft-bristled toothbrush—not your regular toothbrush, but a dedicated soft one—can also work for wiping down the outer surfaces.

Never insert pointed metal objects, toothpicks, or other sharp implements into your hearing aid, as these can permanently damage the components inside. Similarly, avoid using water pressure (like from a sink faucet) to rinse earwax away, as water can seep into internal components and cause electrical damage.

If you have a wax guard or cerumen filter on your hearing aid, replacing it is often easier than trying to clean around it. These small replaceable parts typically cost between $5 and $15. Many people replace them monthly or every other month as part of regular maintenance. If earwax buildup is a significant problem for you, ask your hearing aid provider about models with enhanced wax protection.

It's also worth having your ear canal cleaned professionally by a doctor or audiologist if you tend to produce excessive earwax. Your healthcare provider can safely remove earwax from your ear canal, which will reduce the amount that gets on your hearing aids. Some people benefit from earwax removal appointments every few months.

Practical takeaway: Keep the specialized brush or pick that came with your hearing aids in an easy-to-find location. If you didn't receive these tools, contact your hearing aid provider to ask what safe cleaning tools they recommend for your specific model.

Protecting Your Hearing Aids from Moisture and Environmental Damage

Moisture is the enemy of electronic devices, and hearing aids are no exception. Water damage can cause corrosion inside your hearing aid, short-circuit the electronics, or degrade the battery. Hearing aids are not waterproof in most cases, though some newer models marketed as "water-resistant" can withstand splashing and brief moisture exposure. Always check your user manual to understand your specific hearing aid's water resistance rating.

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Common situations that expose hearing aids to moisture include showering, swimming, washing your face, doing dishes, exercising and sweating, being caught in rain, or using hair spray while wearing hearing aids. During these activities, you should remove your hearing aids and store them in a safe, dry place. Many people keep a small container or case at their bathroom sink specifically for holding hearing aids while they shower.

If your hearing aid does get wet, remove it immediately and don't try to use it. Don't put it in a microwave or oven to dry it out—this will cause permanent damage. Instead, wipe it dry with a soft cloth and place it in a hearing aid dehumidifier or container with uncooked rice or silica gel overnight. Leave the battery compartment open. If the hearing aid was submerged or very wet, it's best to have it professionally serviced to check for internal water damage.

Beyond moisture, hearing aids can be damaged by extreme temperatures. Don't leave them in direct sunlight, in a hot car, or in very cold environments for extended periods. Heat can warp plastic components and damage electronics. Cold can affect battery performance temporarily, though the battery usually works normally once the hearing aid warms up.

Hearing aids can also be damaged by falls, pressure, or impact. If you have young children or pets in your home, store your hearing aids in a safe place where they can't be stepped on or chewed. Many people use a small drawer, a case with a lock, or a shelf in the bathroom cabinet. Accidental drops are a common cause of hearing aid damage, accounting