Advice · Hearing aids
How to clean your hearing aids and help them last
Hearing aids need a short daily clean and a weekly check. Good care prevents wax blockages and moisture damage, which are among the most common causes of hearing aid faults.
The daily routine
At the end of each day, remove the hearing aids and wipe the outside with a soft, dry cloth. Use the small brush supplied with the hearing aids to remove visible wax from the microphone openings and speaker. This takes about two minutes and stops wax building up and hardening inside the device.
Weekly checks
- Domes or earmoulds: these collect wax. Blocked domes can usually be removed and replaced. The clinic shows you how at the fitting, and spare domes are inexpensive.
- Wax guards: most hearing aids have a small replaceable filter over the speaker. If sound is muffled despite cleaning, the wax guard is often the cause. Replacements are available at the clinic.
- Tubing, if fitted: check for moisture, cracks or discolouration. Tubing usually needs replacing every three to six months.
What to avoid
- Water: remove hearing aids before showering, swimming or washing your face
- Hairspray, perfume and aftershave: apply them first and let them dry before putting the hearing aids in
- Cotton buds or sharp objects: never push anything into the openings
- Heat: keep hearing aids away from sunny windowsills and radiators
Overnight storage
Rechargeable hearing aids go in their charging case overnight, which also keeps them clean and dry. For hearing aids with disposable batteries, open the battery door overnight to let moisture evaporate. A drying kit can help if moisture is a problem, and the clinic can advise on options.
Professional cleaning
With good care, modern hearing aids typically last five to seven years. A professional clean once or twice a year is worthwhile: the clinic can clean internal parts, replace worn components and check that the settings still suit your hearing. Lifetime aftercare is included with hearing aids from the clinic, and selected devices come with a five-year warranty.
Questions people ask
Common questions
How often should I clean my hearing aids?
Wipe and brush them every evening, and check domes, wax guards and tubing once a week.
Why do my hearing aids sound muffled?
A blocked wax guard or dome is the most common cause. Replace the wax guard and clean the dome. If the problem continues, have the hearing aids checked at the clinic.
Can I get my hearing aids professionally cleaned?
Yes. A professional clean once or twice a year is recommended, and it is included in aftercare at the clinic.
Hearing aids need a clean or check?
Book an aftercare appointment at our Chepstow clinic.