Your hearing aids are an investment in your health, communication, and overall well-being. Like any device used daily, they require routine care to stay in top condition. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your hearing aids but also ensures better sound quality and fewer performance issues.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean your hearing aids, ensure their battery performance, and keep your devices working reliably whether you use Phonak, Widex, ReSound, or any other brand.
Why Cleaning and Maintenance Matter
Hearing aids sit inside or behind the ear, which exposes them to moisture, earwax, oils, and dust. Without regular cleaning, these elements can block microphones, clog tubing, or damage internal components.
Common issues caused by poor maintenance:
- Weak or distorted sound
- Whistling or feedback
- Intermittent power
- Shortened battery life
- Device failure due to moisture buildup
Daily Hearing Aid Cleaning Routine
What You’ll Need:
- A soft, dry cloth or tissue
- A hearing aid brush or cleaning tool (usually provided with your hearing aids)
- A wax loop or pick
- Optional: hearing aid drying kit or dehumidifier
Steps:
- Wipe Down the Device:
Gently clean the hearing aid shell, microphone ports, and tubing using a dry cloth. Avoid using water, alcohol, or cleaning sprays directly on the device. - Check for Earwax or Debris:
Use the brush or wax loop to remove any visible buildup around the sound outlet, microphone ports, and tubing. - Inspect the Dome or Earmold:
If you’re using a hearing aid with a speaker (aka receiver) worn inside your ear canal (common with Phonak and ReSound), inspect and replace the silicon dome monthly or as recommended. - Use a Dehumidifier (Optional):
Placing your devices in a hearing aid drying kit helps remove moisture, especially in humid climates or after sweating.
Weekly or Monthly Maintenance
- Replace Wax Guards: Most modern hearing aids (including Widex and Phonak models) use wax filters to protect receivers (speakers). Change them if sound becomes muffled.
- Inspect Tubing or Receivers: Look for cracks, discoloration, or stiffness. Damaged parts should be replaced by your hearing care professional.
- Check the Battery Door (Models with Disposable Batteries): Ensure it’s free from corrosion or dirt. Clean contacts with a dry cotton swab if needed.
Battery Care Tips For Rechargeable Models:
- Charge Every Night: Place the hearing aids in their charger overnight for full daily use.
- Don’t Let Batteries Drain Completely: Lithium-ion batteries last longer when regularly charged.
- Keep the Charger Dry and Clean: Moisture or debris can prevent proper charging.
For Models with Disposable Batteries:
- Store Batteries Properly: Keep them in a dry place at room temperature.
- Remove the Tab and Wait 1–2 Minutes: This activates zinc-air batteries and improves lifespan.
- Open the Battery Door at Night: This helps air out moisture and extends battery life.
- Replace Every 3–5 Days: Depending on battery size and usage.
When to See Your Audiologist or Hearing Aid Specialist
Even with good maintenance, professional check-ups are essential. Visit your hearing care provider if:
- You notice persistent sound distortion, even after cleaning.
- There’s physical damage to the casing, tubing, or receiver.
- The devices no longer hold a charge or batteries die too quickly.
- You experience pain or discomfort when wearing them.
Brand-Specific Support
Phonak: Offers rechargeable and disposable models with replaceable wax guards and cleaning tools. Phonak’s myPhonak app also includes remote support and diagnostics.
Widex: Known for its Widex Allure and SmartRIC lines, which use advanced receivers and patented wax filters. Widex also provides Bluetooth support and remote fine-tuning.
ReSound: Offers comprehensive care kits, including microphone filters and app-controlled battery and status monitoring. Many models are compatible with drying stations.
Routine hearing aid care is simple but powerful. By spending a few minutes each day on maintenance, you’ll reduce breakdowns, extend battery life, and get the clearest sound possible. Whether you’re using rechargeable hearing aids or a model with disposable batteries, keeping them clean and dry is key to performance and longevity.
Don’t let it go unnoticed!
Schedule an appointment with our specialist by calling 📞 (305) 661-6636
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