Originally published February 2021. Refreshed October 2026.
Proper care and maintenance can help extend the life of your hearing aids and keep them working at their best. A few simple habits, from cleaning your devices regularly to storing them properly, can make a big difference. Here are six tips our audiologists recommend for caring for your hearing aids.
1. STORE IN A SAFE, DRY LOCATION
When you take out your hearing aids, store them somewhere safe and dry. A dedicated hearing aid case or charging station on your nightstand is a good option. Avoid leaving your devices on kitchen counters or elsewhere where they could be knocked off, exposed to water, or damaged by heat and moisture.
If your hearing aids came with a drying case or dehumidifier, follow our audiologists’ recommendations for using it. Proper storage helps protect your devices and keeps them ready to wear the next day.
2. ROUTINELY CLEAN YOUR HEARING AIDS
Daily cleaning helps remove earwax, oils, and debris that can affect performance. Use a clean, dry cloth and the cleaning tools recommended for your specific devices. We often recommend cleaning your hearing aids in the morning, when earwax has had time to dry and is easier to remove.
Avoid using water, cleaning sprays, or other liquids unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them. Pay particular attention to the domes, earmolds, wax filters, and microphone openings, where debris can build up.
Not sure how to clean your microphones or replace your domes and wax filters? Visit our Hearing Aid Care and Maintenance page for step-by-step videos that walk you through these tasks.
We also recommend routine professional cleanings. During these visits, our audiologists can check for wax buildup, inspect your hearing aids, and address any issues that may affect their performance.
3. MAKE SURE HANDS ARE CLEAN BEFORE HANDLING
Always wash and thoroughly dry your hands before handling your hearing aids. This helps keep dirt, oils, and other debris from transferring to your devices.
Clean hands are especially important when you clean your hearing aids, change disposable batteries, or replace domes and wax filters. Because hearing aids contain small components, handle them carefully and work over a soft surface to reduce the risk of damage if you accidentally drop one.
4. PREVENT YOUR HEARING AIDS FROM GETTING WET
Take your hearing aids out before showering, swimming, bathing, or washing your face. Many modern hearing aids have some level of water or moisture resistance, but that doesn't mean they are waterproof. Protection varies by model.
Sweat, humidity, and rain can also expose your hearing aids to moisture. If your devices get wet, follow the manufacturer's drying instructions. If they stop working or sound different than usual, contact our office so we can help determine what to do next.
Never use a hair dryer or place your hearing aids near a heater to speed drying. Excessive heat can damage their delicate components.
5. APPLY MAKEUP AND HAIR PRODUCTS BEFORE PUTTING IN HEARING AIDS
Hairspray, makeup, perfume, sunscreen, and other personal care products can leave residue on your hearing aids and may damage their components over time. We recommend finishing your hair and makeup routine before putting in your devices.
Allow products to dry before inserting your hearing aids, and avoid spraying hairspray or other products near them. If you notice residue on your devices, clean them with a dry cloth and the tools recommended for your model.
6. MAINTAIN ROUTINE BATTERY MAINTENANCE
Whether your hearing aids use disposable batteries or a rechargeable battery, proper care helps keep them ready when you need them.
If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, note how long they typically last and replace them as needed. Battery life varies by hearing aid model, battery type, streaming habits, and how often you wear your devices.
When storing hearing aids with disposable batteries overnight, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Some models benefit from leaving the battery door open to help moisture escape. Keep spare batteries in a cool, dry place, safely away from children and pets.
If you use rechargeable hearing aids, place them in their designated charger as directed by the manufacturer. Keep the charging contacts clean and dry, and follow the recommended charging and storage guidelines.
If your batteries drain faster than usual or your rechargeable hearing aids aren't holding a charge, our audiologists can help you troubleshoot.
NEED HELP WITH HEARING AID CARE?
Not sure how to clean your hearing aid microphones or replace your domes and wax filters? We've created a Hearing Aid Care and Maintenance page with step-by-step videos to help you care for your devices at home.
If you're a current patient and have questions about cleaning your hearing aids, replacing parts, or choosing the right supplies, give us a call. We're happy to help you keep your devices in good working order.
Think it's time for a new pair of hearing aids? Contact one of our offices. Our team can help you determine whether your current devices are meeting your hearing needs and discuss your options.
