How to Clean Hearing Aids at Home: Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Keeping hearing aids clean is the fastest way to improve sound clarity, reduce feedback, and avoid costly repairs. This practical guide shows safe daily and weekly cleaning routines for all common hearing aid types (BTE, RIC, ITE, CIC), the simple tools you need, common mistakes to avoid, and when to seek professional help. No jargon—just steps you can do at home today.
Why cleaning hearing aids regularly matters
- Muffled or distorted sound from wax buildup.
- Feedback or static from clogged microphone ports.
- Shortened battery life and device performance issues.
- Higher risk of costly repairs or replacements.
Tools you’ll need (cheap & widely available)
- Soft lint-free cloth
- Small cleaning brush
- Wax pick / loop tool
- Drying box or desiccant packs
- Plastic cleaning wire for tubing
- Isopropyl alcohol wipes (70%) for exterior only
Daily quick clean (30–60 seconds)
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Turn off the hearing aid and open the battery door (or switch off rechargeable models).
- Wipe the outer shell with the lint-free cloth.
- Brush sound outlet and microphone ports gently, away from the device.
- Leave battery door open overnight or place in drying box.
Weekly deep clean (5–10 minutes)
- Remove domes/tips from BTE or RIC aids. Wash them in warm soapy water, rinse, and air dry.
- Use wax pick to clear sound ports of hardened wax.
- Inspect tubing for cracks or moisture; replace if stiff or blocked.
- Use a cleaning wire to run through tubing.
- For rechargeable aids, wipe charging contacts with a dry cloth only.
Cleaning by hearing aid type
BTE & RIC (Behind-the-Ear / Receiver-in-Canal)
- Remove dome or earmold and clean with soap and water (air dry fully).
- Check tubing for condensation and replace if needed.
- Brush microphone grills gently and clear receiver tip.
ITE & CIC (In-the-Ear / Completely-in-Canal)
- Use brush and wax loop on visible wax only.
- Avoid inserting tools deep into sound ports.
- Get professional checks every 3–6 months if you have heavy wax.
Moisture control — don’t skip this
Moisture is a leading cause of damage. Use a drying box or desiccant packs nightly. If your aid gets wet, remove batteries immediately and place in drying kit. Never use hairdryers or microwaves.
Dos and Don’ts
Dos
- Wash hands before handling devices.
- Follow manufacturer’s cleaning advice.
- Replace wax guards and domes regularly.
- Store hearing aids in a dry place.
Don’ts
- Don’t push cotton swabs into sound ports.
- Don’t soak devices in water.
- Don’t use harsh cleaners or sprays.
- Don’t try internal repairs at home.
Troubleshooting common problems
- Muffled sound: Clean domes and ports for wax.
- Whistling/feedback: Check fit and clean microphone areas.
- Intermittent sound: Dry the device, replace batteries.
- No sound: Replace battery, check wax guard, adjust volume.
When to see a professional
Book professional service if:
- Cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue.
- Device was exposed to water or fell.
- You notice cracks, damage, or persistent feedback.
- It’s been more than 6–12 months since last check-up.
Professionals can do safe internal cleaning, replace wax guards or receivers, and run performance checks.
Helpful resources
Want trusted expert advice? Check out:
Final thoughts
Learning how to clean hearing aids at home is simple but powerful: better sound, longer lifespan, fewer repairs. Daily wiping plus weekly deep cleaning will keep your devices working at their best.
Need professional help?
If your hearing aid still isn’t performing after a home clean, or you’d like expert care and warranty support, contact us for same-day professional cleaning. Book an appointment here or explore our hearing aid maintenance services.
Clean hearing aids mean clearer sound and longer life. Good Hearing