Tools you'll need

• Wax pick or loop: For removing earwax from ports and vents
• Soft brush: For brushing away debris from the microphone and receiver
• Wax guards (filters): Replacement filters for the receiver tip (brand-specific)
• Dry cloth or tissue: For wiping the hearing aid body
• Hearing aid dryer or desiccant jar: For overnight moisture removal

Most hearing aids come with a basic cleaning kit. Replacement wax guards are available from your audiologist or online — make sure to get the correct type for your specific hearing aid model.

Daily cleaning routine (5 minutes)

Step 1: Wipe the body

At the end of each day, wipe the hearing aid body with a soft, dry cloth or tissue. Remove any visible earwax, skin oils, or debris from the surface. Do not use water, alcohol, or cleaning sprays — these can damage the electronics.

Step 2: Brush the microphone ports

Use the soft brush to gently brush the microphone ports (the small holes on the top or back of the hearing aid). Debris in the microphone ports reduces sound quality and can cause distortion.

Step 3: Check and clean the receiver tip (RIC/RITE hearing aids)

For receiver-in-canal hearing aids, check the wax guard at the tip of the receiver. If it appears clogged with wax, replace it. Wax guard replacement takes about 30 seconds and is the most important maintenance task for RIC hearing aids.

Step 4: Clean the dome (RIC/RITE hearing aids)

Remove the dome from the receiver and check for earwax buildup. Wipe the dome with a dry cloth or replace it if it's heavily soiled. Domes should be replaced every 2–3 months or sooner if damaged.

Step 5: Open the battery door (disposable battery models)

If your hearing aid uses disposable batteries, open the battery door at night. This allows moisture to escape and extends battery life. It also prevents battery corrosion from damaging the battery contacts.

Step 6: Place in dryer or desiccant jar

Place the hearing aids in a hearing aid dryer or desiccant jar overnight. Moisture is the leading cause of hearing aid failure, and nightly drying significantly extends device life.

Weekly cleaning tasks

• Deep clean the earmold or dome: Remove the dome or earmold and wash with mild soap and warm water. Dry completely before reattaching — never reattach a wet dome or earmold.
• Clean the tubing (BTE hearing aids): Disconnect the tubing from the earmold and use a tubing blower to clear any moisture or debris.
• Inspect for damage: Check the hearing aid body, tubing, dome, and wax guard for cracks, tears, or wear. Replace damaged components.

What not to do

• Never use water, alcohol, cleaning sprays, or solvents on the hearing aid body or electronics
• Never use cotton swabs inside the hearing aid — they can push debris deeper and damage components
• Never use a hairdryer to dry hearing aids — heat damages electronics
• Never wear hearing aids in the shower, swimming, or during heavy rain (unless rated IP68)

Professional cleaning

In addition to daily home cleaning, have your hearing aids professionally cleaned by your audiologist every 6 months. Professional cleaning includes ultrasonic cleaning of earmolds, inspection of all components, and replacement of any worn parts. Most audiologists include professional cleaning in the bundled service package.