Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are valuable tools that help many seniors stay connected to the world around them. Like any delicate device, they require regular care to work well and last longer. Proper maintenance can prevent common problems such as poor sound quality, discomfort, or device failure. This guide offers practical advice on how to keep your hearing aids in top shape, so you can enjoy clear hearing every day.

!Close-up view of a hearing aid resting on a soft cloth

Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean Every Day

Dirt, earwax, and moisture can build up quickly on hearing aids, affecting their performance. Cleaning your devices daily is one of the best ways to avoid issues.

• Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the hearing aids after wearing them.

• Avoid using water, alcohol, or cleaning fluids unless recommended by your audiologist.

• Use a small brush or a special cleaning tool to gently remove earwax from openings and microphones.

• Check the battery compartment and remove any debris.

  
  

Regular cleaning prevents blockages that reduce sound quality and helps keep the device hygienic.

Protect Hearing Aids from Moisture

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to hearing aids. Sweat, rain, and humidity can damage the internal components.

• Remove your hearing aids before showering, swimming, or heavy rain.

• Store them in a dry place overnight, preferably in a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying box.

• Avoid leaving hearing aids in bathrooms or other humid areas.

• If your hearing aids get wet, remove the batteries immediately and let the devices dry completely before using them again.

  
  

Keeping hearing aids dry extends their lifespan and reduces the chance of costly repairs.

Handle Batteries with Care

Batteries power your hearing aids, so taking care of them is essential.

• Always carry spare batteries with you.

• Open the battery door when not using the hearing aids to save power and allow moisture to escape.

• Replace batteries as soon as you notice a drop in sound quality or device function.

• Store batteries at room temperature and away from metal objects to prevent short circuits.

  
  

Proper battery care ensures your hearing aids work reliably throughout the day.

Schedule Regular Professional Checkups

Even with good daily care, hearing aids need professional attention.

• Visit your audiologist at least once a year for a thorough checkup.

• Professionals can clean parts you cannot reach, check for damage, and update settings.

• If you notice any changes in sound quality, discomfort, or feedback noises, schedule a visit sooner.

  
  

Regular checkups keep your hearing aids working well and help catch problems early.

!Eye-level view of a hearing aid technician inspecting a hearing aid

Store Hearing Aids Safely When Not in Use

Proper storage protects your hearing aids from damage and loss.

• Use a dedicated case to keep your hearing aids safe when you are not wearing them.

• Keep the case in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

• Avoid leaving hearing aids on surfaces where they can fall or get crushed.

• Keep hearing aids out of reach of children and pets.

  
  

Safe storage reduces the risk of accidental damage and keeps your devices ready to use.

Avoid Exposure to Extreme Temperatures

Extreme heat or cold can harm hearing aids.

• Do not leave hearing aids in a hot car or near heaters.

• Avoid exposing them to freezing temperatures.

• When traveling, keep hearing aids in your carry-on bag to protect them from temperature changes.

  
  

Maintaining a stable environment helps preserve the delicate electronics inside your hearing aids.

Replace Parts as Needed

Some parts of hearing aids wear out over time.

• Replace wax guards or filters regularly to prevent blockages.

• Change tubing or ear molds if they become stiff, cracked, or discolored.

• Follow your audiologist’s advice on when to replace parts.

  
  

Using fresh parts keeps your hearing aids comfortable and functioning well.

Tips for Daily Use

• Put on your hearing aids after applying hair products or lotions to avoid buildup.

• Remove them before sleeping to prevent damage and allow your ears to rest.

• Handle your hearing aids gently, avoiding dropping or bending them.

  
  

Small habits can make a big difference in how long your hearing aids last.