The Complete Guide to Hearing Aid Cleaning and Maintenance: Expert Tips to Extend Device Life

Is your hearing aid not sounding as clear as it used to? Before you worry about costly repairs, the issue might simply be everyday buildup of earwax, moisture, and debris. Proper hearing aid cleaning and maintenance is the single most effective way to ensure crystal-clear sound, prevent damage, and extend the lifespan of your device—potentially by several years.

This definitive guide from Mearsun’s team of audiologists and hearing aid experts provides a step-by-step routine for daily care, deep cleaning techniques, and crucial advice on when to seek professional help. Whether you wear Behind-The-Ear (BTE), In-The-Ear (ITE), or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) models, you’ll find the specific care instructions you need right here.

Why Consistent Cleaning is Non-Negotiable

Hearing aids are sophisticated electronic devices worn in a demanding environment. Daily exposure to elements can lead to:

• Muffled or Weak Sound: Earwax clogging the sound outlet is a primary cause of reduced volume.

• Intermittent Cutting Out: Moisture and corrosion can disrupt electrical connections.

• Feedback and Whistling: Improperly seated or dirty components can cause sound leakage.

• Complete Device Failure: Accumulated moisture is a leading cause of irreversible internal damage.

A simple, consistent care routine protects your investment and guarantees reliable performance.

Your Essential Hearing Aid Cleaning Toolkit

Before you begin, assemble these necessary tools, many of which are included in a Mearsun hearing aid care kit:

• A soft-bristled brush

• A wax pick or loop

• A dehumidifier or drying box

• A soft, lint-free cloth

• A multi-tool (often with a magnet for handling small parts)

• An air blower (for BTE/RIC models)

The 5-Minute Daily Cleaning Routine

Incorporate these steps into your nightly routine for optimal daily maintenance.

Step 1: Wipe Down the Exterior

Gently wipe the entire hearing aid body with a dry, lint-free cloth. This removes skin oils, sweat, and general debris.

Step 2: Brush Away Debris

Hold the device over a soft surface (like a towel) with the microphone ports and sound outlet facing downward. Use the soft brush to gently sweep away particles. Brushing downward prevents pushing debris further inside.

Step 3: Clear the Sound Outlet

Carefully use the wax pick or loop to dislodge any visible earwax from the sound outlet. Never insert the pick deep into the tube.

Step 4: For BTE/RIC Models: Check the Tube or Dome

• BTE with a tube: Look for moisture or wax in the tubing. Use the air blower to gently force out any blockages.

• RIC with a dome: Remove the dome and check for wax. Domes can be washed with mild soap and water; ensure they are completely dry before reattaching.

Step 5: Dehumidify Overnight

This is the most critical step. Place your hearing aids in an electronic dehumidifier or drying box overnight with the battery door open. This draws out invisible moisture that can corrode circuitry. If you use rechargeable models, simply place them in their charging case, as most have built-in drying functions.

Weekly Deep Cleaning & Maintenance

Once a week, perform these additional tasks:

1. Change Wax Filters: If your model uses disposable wax guards or filters, replace them weekly or as soon as sound becomes muffled.

2. Inspect Battery Contacts: Open the battery compartment and look at the metal contacts. If you see corrosion (a greenish or white crust), gently clean it with a dry cotton swab.

3. Perform a Visual Inspection: Check all components for cracks, weak tubing, or loose connections.

Hearing Aid Care by Device Type

When to Seek Professional Hearing Aid Service

Even with perfect home care, professional servicing is essential. Schedule a professional clean and check with your hearing care provider or Mearsun every 6 to 12 months. Contact an expert immediately if you experience:

• Persistent feedback or whistling that doesn’t resolve with cleaning.

• Significant volume drop or distorted sound with new batteries.

• Physical damage like a cracked shell or broken microphone port.

• Corroded battery contacts that you cannot clean safely.

• Intermittent operation where the device cuts in and out.

A professional can perform a deep, ultrasonic cleaning and complete diagnostic checks that are impossible to do at home.

5 Costly Hearing Aid Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Liquids or Chemicals: Never clean with water, alcohol, solvents, or household cleaners. They will destroy sensitive components.

2. Applying Heat: Do not use a hair dryer, microwave, oven, or direct sunlight to dry your aids. Heat can melt parts and warp shells.

3. Skipping Moisture Protection: Never store hearing aids in a bathroom or other humid area without a dehumidifier.

4. Neglecting to Remove Them: Always take out your hearing aids before showering, swimming, using haircare products like hairspray, or applying sunscreen.

5. Forgetting About Pets: Always store your devices in a secure case. Dogs, in particular, are attracted to the scent and may chew on them.

Recommended Mearsun Hearing Aid Care Products

For best results, use tools designed specifically for hearing aids. Explore our curated selection to build your perfect care kit:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I clean my hearing aid?

You should perform a brief wipe-down and brush daily, and a more thorough cleaning weekly. Always dehumidify overnight.

Can I use disinfectant wipes on my hearing aids?

No. Most disinfectant wipes contain chemicals and moisture that can damage the waterproof seals and internal electronics. Use only dry, soft cloths designed for electronics.

What do I do if my hearing aid gets wet?

1. Immediately wipe it dry with a soft cloth.

2. Remove the battery (if disposable) or open the compartment.

3. Place it in a dehumidifier or drying box immediately for at least 24 hours.

4. Do not use heat or insert a new battery until you are sure it is completely dry. If problems persist, contact your hearing professional.

How long should hearing aids last?

With excellent daily care and professional maintenance, most high-quality hearing aids can last 5 to 7 years. Consistent cleaning is key to reaching this lifespan.

Conclusion: Protect Your Investment, Preserve Your Hearing

Your hearing aids are vital for staying connected to your world. A simple, consistent cleaning routine is a small investment of time that pays huge dividends in device reliability, audio clarity, and long-term performance.

Ready for Professional-Grade Care?
Equip yourself with the right tools for the job. Browse our full range of hearing aid maintenance kits and accessories to keep your devices in perfect working order for years to come.