How to Clean Your Hearing Aids

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Updated onJan. 30, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Regular cleaning with tools like wax loops, brushes, and earmold tubing blowers helps maintain hearing aids.
  • Following the manufacturer’s cleaning and maintenance recommendations ensures optimal performance, prevents accidental damage, and preserves your warranty.
  • Occasional professional cleanings (usually $30–$60) are recommended to keep your devices functioning at their best.
  • Proper care not only extends the life of your hearing aids but also safeguards your ear health and ensures clear sound quality.

Why you should clean your hearing aids

Research shows hearing aid use can increase ear canal debris, potentially causing irritation or infections. Wax buildup or moisture can also distort sound quality, affecting how well your hearing aids work.

Depending on the type of hearing aid you use, cleaning tools and procedures may vary. Common hearing aid types include:

  • Completely-in-canal (CIC)
  • In-the-canal (ITC)
  • Behind-the-ear (BTE)
  • Receiver-in-canal (RIC)
  • In-the-ear (ITE)

Some hearing aids come with cleaning kits and detailed instructions. Always refer to your product documentation for specific guidance.

For additional protection, you can store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight to prevent moisture buildup, which can damage electronic components. Make sure if your hearing aids are rechargeable, you keep them in their rechargeable case. 

Audiologists can provide professional cleaning services, and some even offer services for OTC hearing aids. Check with your local hearing clinics to see if you can make an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned—and make sure to mention if they are OTC or prescription.

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Video: How to Clean Your Hearing Aids

In the video below, audiologist Brad Ingrao explains the importance of cleaning your hearing aids and describes how to do it.

Essential Tools for Cleaning Hearing Aids

Here are some commonly used cleaning tools and their purposes:

  • Hearing Aid Brush: Removes surface debris like wax and dust. The small bristles can reach tiny openings.
  • Slim Tube Cleaning Tool: Clears wax and dirt from the tubing of hearing aids.
  • Wax Loops or Picks: Helps remove wax buildup from openings that transmit sound.
  • Earmold Tubing Blower: Gently blows away moisture and remaining debris from earmolds, tubing, or vents.
  • NanoClean Hearing Aid Cleaners: Miniature pipe cleaners designed for detailed cleaning of small openings.
  • Disinfectant Spray: Prevents wax buildup and sanitizes surfaces. Always use manufacturer-approved sprays.
  • Microfiber Cloth: A lint-free cloth to remove debris and polish the device after cleaning.
  • Hearing Aid Dryers: Dehumidifiers or drying devices remove moisture and often include UV light for disinfection.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

Cleaning In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

  1. Remove the device from your ear.
  2. Hold it face down to prevent debris from falling inside. Use a cleaning brush to gently remove surface wax and dirt.
  3. Use a wax loop or pick to clean out stubborn wax buildup.
  4. For devices with ventilation tubes, pass a slim tube cleaning tool through the vent. Wipe the tool clean and repeat in reverse.
  5. Wipe the entire hearing aid with a microfiber cloth to remove the remaining residue.

Cleaning Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

  1. Remove the device from your ear and separate the tubing if applicable.
  2. Use a cleaning brush to remove surface debris from the hearing aid body, including microphones and receiver covers.
  3. Clean the tubing and earmold:
    • Run a pipe cleaner tool through the tubing to remove wax and dirt.
    • Clean the earmold with warm, soapy water (unless it contains electronic components).
    • Use an earmold tubing blower to dry the tubing and mold thoroughly.
  4. Wipe the hearing aid components and reassemble the tubing and earmold.

Additional hearing aid cleaning tips

  • Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always use the recommended tools and cleaning products to avoid damaging sensitive electronics.
  • Daily Cleaning: Remove wax or debris daily with a brush or soft cloth.
  • Weekly Deep Cleaning: Perform more thorough maintenance, including tubing and vent cleaning.
  • Professional Cleanings: Schedule a professional cleaning every six months (or more frequently if needed). Audiologists can inspect and clean your devices to ensure peak performance.
  • Keep Your Ears Clean: Proper ear hygiene prevents debris from entering your hearing aids. Avoid using Q-tips, as they can push wax further into the ear canal. Instead, try wax removal kits or rinse with a bulb syringe.

Frequently Asked Questions

This may vary depending on the type of device and manufacturer recommendations. A good rule of thumb is to complete basic cleaning daily with a more thorough weekly cleaning, followed by professional cleaning every six to 12 months.