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Guide to cleaning hearing aids

Maintaining your hearing aids properly is crucial for their longevity and performance. Regular hearing aid cleaning prevents problems such as wax buildup, moisture damage, and sound distortion. Using the right hearing aid cleaning tools ensures your device stays in excellent working condition.

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How to clean different types of hearing aids at home

Depending on the type of hearing aid you have, the cleaning process may require a specific approach. Learn how to clean different styles of hearing aids with clear, step-by-step videos that show you each part of the process.

Step-by-step guide to cleaning your receiver-in-the-ear and nxtCIC hearing aids

1

Preparation: wash your hands

Before cleaning, always wash your hands to avoid the transfer of dirt and bacteria to your hearing aids.

2

Wipe down the hearing aid

Use a hearing aid cleaning wipe to gently clean the exterior of the device.

3

Clean the microphone and speaker

Use a hearing aid cleaning brush to remove wax and debris from the microphone and speaker openings.

4

Remove earwax from opening

Use a wax pick to gently clean wax from small openings.

5

Cleaning hearing aid ear pieces

Replace both the dome and the wax guard regularly, as both components are designed to be replaced to maintain proper performance

6

Dry and store your hearing aids

  • Always store your hearing aids in a dry, cool place.
  • Keep away from pets and small children.
  • Use a hearing aid dehumidifier to remove excess moisture.
  • Avoid exposing them to direct heat and liquid.
Watch all maintenance videos

How to clean your behind-the-ear hearing aid with mould

  1. Wash your hands
  2. Remove the battery and the earmold
  3. Clean the earmold vent using the multitool
  4. Wipe the earmold and hearing aid with a cleaning cloth
  5. Dry both with a dry cloth
  6. Put a drying capsule into the drying cup
  7. Place the hearing aids and earmolds (without batteries) in the drying cup
  8. Let them dry overnight
  9. Take them out from the drying cup and reinsert the earmolds and battery

How to clean your in-the-ear custom hearing aids

  1. Remove the batteries
  2. Clean the hearing aids with a dry cloth
  3. Use a multi tool to remove wax from the vent
  4. Use the multi tool to clean the wax filter
  5. Reinsert the batteries or insert new batteries

Essential tools for hearing aid cleaning

Using the right hearing aid cleaning tools makes day-to-day maintenance easier and helps keep your hearing aids at their best. HearingLife can provide some of the cleaning tools from the list below, while others are available to purchase separately, depending on your needs.

1. Hearing aid cleaning bowl

A cleaning bowl is used to wash detachable earmolds safely. By soaking the earmolds in a cleaning solution, it helps remove wax and debris while keeping the hearing aid device itself dry.

2. Hearing aid drying tub

A drying tub is a small container designed to hold hearing aids during the drying process. When used with drying capsules, it helps reduce moisture that can build up during daily use.

3. Air puffer

An air puffer is used to gently blow air through hearing aid tubing or small openings after cleaning. This helps remove remaining moisture or particles and supports clear sound transmission.

4. Multitool

The multitool is a small cleaning instrument that typically includes a brush and wax loop. It is used to gently remove wax and debris from hearing aid openings and surfaces. This tool is usually included when you purchase hearing aids.

5. Dry-cleaning cloth

A dry-cleaning cloth is a soft cloth used to wipe the outer surface of hearing aids and remove daily dust, oils, and moisture. This cloth is typically provided with every hearing aid purchase.

6. Electronic dryer

Our electronic hearing aid dryer uses warm air and UV C light to dry and disinfect your hearing aids in less than an hour. It can be used for any hearing aid type.

Where to buy a hearing aid cleaning kit near you

Good hearing aid hygiene is essential for optimal performance and longevity. If you're wondering where to buy a hearing aid cleaning kit, HearingLife has you covered.



When you purchase a pair of hearing aids from HearingLife, you'll receive essential cleaning tools as part of your package.


Need extra supplies or guidance? Our team is always ready to help. Contact your local HearingLife clinic for personalized support on how to clean and maintain your hearing aids.

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Tips for long term hearing aid care

  • Clean your hearing aids daily to prevent buildup.
  • Replace wax filters monthly unless more frequent is required by your hearing care professional.
  • Store your hearing aids in a dry place when not in use.
  • Avoid moisture exposure by removing your hearing aids before showering or swimming.
  • Reach out to your local hearing care clinic should you need additional professional cleaning and maintenance support.

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FAQ about cleaning your hearing aids

Katie Koebel, audiologist at HearingLife Canada
Katie Koebel, M.Cl.Sc., Reg. CASLPO Senior Manager, Audiology HearingLife Canada

Katie graduated with a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours), with Distinction, from the University of Western Ontario in 2006, followed by a master’s degree in audiology from the same institution in 2008. She began her career providing hearing healthcare as an audiologist at the HearingLife Cambridge clinic. Here, she supported clients in achieving better hearing outcomes for over 13 years.

Learn more about Katie
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Free hearing assessments are available for adults (19+). Child assessments are available at select clinics for a fee. Results are reviewed during your appointment. Written report fees may apply, depending on province. Not applicable to industrial hearing tests. 150,000 Doctor referrals based on the all-time number of referrals from general physicians, Ear, Nose & Throat specialists, and medical professionals as indicated by clients on our intake forms. 90-Day money-back guarantee begins at the date of purchase. If you are not completely satisfied, you can return it within 90 days for a full refund or exchange. The government grant for hearing aids is a provincial program administered by the provincial government and is not affiliated with or administered by HearingLife Canada. If you are quoted a lower price on comparable hearing aids with the same features, options and service, HearingLife Canada Ltd. will match that price. Conditions apply. Offer valid on select hearing aid models only. Subject to HearingLife Terms of Sale. See clinic for details. Offer not available in Quebec.

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