Hearing aids typically last between three and seven years, although their lifespan depends partly on how well they are cared for. As your devices are exposed to earwax, moisture and dust during everyday wear, regular hearing aid maintenance can help preserve their sound quality and reduce the risk of avoidable faults.
In this article, youโll learn how to clean different types of hearing aids, establish daily and weekly care routines, troubleshoot common issues and recognise when professional servicing may be needed.
- Why Is Regular Hearing Aid Maintenance and Cleaning Important?
- Hearing Aid Care and Maintenance Checklist
- Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Hearing Aids
- What Are Some Essential Tools for Hearing Aid Cleaning?
- Doโs and Donโts for Hearing Aid Cleaning
- Hearing Aid Troubleshooting
- When Do I Need Professional Hearing Aid Maintenance and Repair?
- How Much Does Hearing Aid Maintenance Cost in Singapore?
- FAQs About Hearing Aid Maintenance and Cleaning
Why Is Regular Hearing Aid Maintenance and Cleaning Important?
Debris that blocks the microphone openings or receivers can weaken sound and prevent your hearing aids from working properly. Moisture may also damage the internal electronic components.
Cleaning your devices regularly helps prevent these problems. It also allows you to notice a clogged filter or worn part before it disrupts everyday use. Proper storage and the right hearing aid accessories can help protect your hearing aids from damage and keep them working reliably for longer.
Hearing Aid Care and Maintenance Checklist
Use this checklist to keep track of your hearing aid care and maintenance. The requirements may differ between models, so follow your device instructions or ask your hearing care professional if youโre unsure.
Daily
Weekly
Monthly or When Needed
For extended storage: Follow the instructions for your model. Rechargeable hearing aids may need to be fully charged and switched off before storage, then recharged periodically. Remove the batteries from non-rechargeable hearing aids before storing them for an extended period.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Hearing Aids
The correct cleaning method depends on the type of hearing aid you use. Before starting, identify your device type and follow the instructions supplied with your model. For all hearing aids that use disposable batteries, open the battery drawer and remove the battery before starting. For rechargeable models, switch off the device.
How to Clean BTE (Behind-the-Ear) Hearing Aids
If your BTE hearing aid has a thin hollow tube leading to a dome or earmould:
- Wipe the hearing aid. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the surface and charging contacts. Never wash or immerse the hearing aid itself in water.
- Brush the microphone openings. Gently sweep debris away without inserting the brush into the openings. (Watch: How to clean the microphone opening)
- Clear the thin tube if applicable. Detach it according to your device instructions, then pass the cleaning wire through its full length. Do not use a cleaning wire on a receiver wire.
- Clean the dome or earmould. Wipe away visible debris from the dome and replace it when blocked or at least once a month. Use the appropriate tool to clear an earmould vent. (Watch: How to clean the vent in Micro Mould)
- Inspect the tubing. Contact your hearing care professional if it becomes stiff or discoloured.
Some detachable BTE earmoulds and tubes without electronic components can be washed using mild soap and water. Hold the hook firmly when disconnecting the tube, then rinse and dry both parts completely before reconnecting them. If youโre unsure whether your earmould can be washed, consult your hearing care professional first.
How to Clean RITE (Receiver-in-the-Ear) Hearing Aids
RITE hearing aids have a thin wire connecting the hearing aid body to a receiver inside the ear canal. As the receiver contains electronic components, it must remain dry.
- Clean the exterior. Wipe the hearing aid and charging contacts with a soft, dry cloth.
- Brush the microphone openings. Carefully sweep debris away without pressing the brush into the openings.
- Check the wax filter. Replace it when clogged, when the sound changes or at least once a month, using the same filter type supplied for your hearing aid. If you use a mould or LiteTip, follow your model instructions, as the speaker filter on some models should be replaced by a hearing care professional.
- Care for the dome. Remove visible debris with a dry cloth. Replace the dome when it is blocked or at least once a month. (Watch: How To Change Open Dome)
- Clean a fitted earmould. Wipe it with a dry cloth and clear its ventilation opening with the appropriate brush. Do not detach or wash a RITE earmould, as it contains the electronic receiver.
How to Clean ITE (In-the-Ear) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids sit partly or fully inside the ear.ย
- Wipe the surface. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not wash or immerse the hearing aid in water.
- Clean the microphone inlets. Hold the hearing aid with the opening facing down, then gently brush across it so loosened debris falls away.
- Clear the vent. Insert the correct cleaning tool into the vent while twisting it gently. Ask your hearing care professional for help if the opening is too narrow.
- Replace the filters. Change the microphone filter or wax filter when clogged, when the sound becomes unusual or at least once a month. Use the filter type supplied with your device. (Watch: How To Change Custom OCap Filter)
How to Clean ITE (In-the-Ear) Hearing Aids With an External Antenna
These hearing aids sit inside the ear but have an antenna extending outside it.
- Wipe the hearing aid. Clean its surface and charging contacts with a soft, dry cloth.
- Brush the microphone inlet. Sweep away debris carefully without dislodging the microphone filter.
- Check the dome. Remove visible debris and replace the dome if it’s blocked, or at least once a month.
- Clean the fitted mould. Wipe it with a dry cloth and pass the appropriate vent cleaner through the opening. Do not detach or wash the mould because it contains electronic components.
- Replace the wax filter. Change it when clogged, when the sound changes or at least once a month.
What Are Some Essential Tools for Hearing Aid Cleaning?
The right cleaning tools make it easier to care for your hearing aids, especially when removing dirt and earwax from small or delicate areas. The tools you need will depend on your hearing aid style.ย
In general, these are some tools you may need:
| Cleaning tool | What it is used for |
|---|---|
| Soft, dry cloth | To wipe the hearing aid body, earpieces and charging contacts. |
| Hearing aid brush or MultiTool | To sweep debris away from microphone openings and other external areas. |
| Vent cleaner or wire loop | To clear wax from earmould vents and other narrow openings. |
| Thin-tube cleaning wire | To remove blockages from the hollow tubing of compatible BTE hearing aids. Do not use it on receiver wires. |
| Wax-filter replacement tool | To remove a clogged wax filter and insert a new one. Use the filter designed for your device. |
| Air blower | To remove moisture from detachable BTE earmoulds and hollow tubing. It should not be used on electronic components. |
| Hearing aid dryer | To draw out moisture while your hearing aids are not being worn. Check that it is suitable for your model. |
| Storage case or charger | To protect your hearing aids when they are not in use. |
Hearing Partners offers a range of hearing aid accessories and maintenance tools, including cleaning brushes, wax picks and air blowers. You can purchase these products at any of our hearing centres across Singapore, where our team can help you select a suitable option. As availability may differ between clinics, contact your preferred outlet beforehand to confirm stock.
Doโs and Donโts for Hearing Aid Cleaning
Hearing aids contain delicate electronic components. Use light pressure and only cleaning products that are approved for your model. Keep these simple precautions in mind as they can go a long way in protecting your hearing aids from accidental damage.
| Doโs | Donโts |
|---|---|
Hearing Aid Troubleshooting
Some common hearing aid issues can be caused by simple problems, such as a depleted battery, a blocked wax filter, or an improper fit. Before arranging a repair, try the checks below to see if you can resolve the issue. However, avoid opening the hearing aid casing or attempting to remove any internal components.
- No sound: Make sure the hearing aid is switched on. Recharge it or insert a fresh hearing aid battery in the correct direction. Check that the battery drawer is fully closed, then inspect the earpiece and wax filter for blockages.
- Weak or distorted sound: Clean the microphone openings and earpiece. Replace the wax filter if it is clogged, then check the battery level. Use a compatible hearing aid dryer if moisture may be affecting the device.
- Sound that cuts in and out: Restart the hearing aid according to your modelโs instructions. Make sure the battery is secure, or the device is sufficiently charged. If the issue continues, check the tubing or receiver wire for visible damage without pulling it.
- Whistling or feedback: Remove and reinsert the hearing aid so it fits securely. Clean the earpiece and lower the volume if you increased it manually. Persistent whistling may indicate an issue with the fit or earwax in the ear canal.
- Charging problems: Confirm that the charger is connected to power. Wipe the charging contacts with a dry cloth and reposition the device. Contact your hearing care professional if the charging lights show an error or the problem continues.
- Repeated beeping: Recharge the hearing aid or replace its battery, then check the user guide. On several Oticon models, eight beeps repeated four times may indicate that a microphone service check is needed. If the pattern continues after carefully cleaning the microphone openings, contact your hearing care professional.
If these steps do not resolve the problem, consult a hearing care professional rather than attempting further repairs yourself. Stop using the hearing aid if it is visibly damaged or has been exposed to a large amount of water.
When Do I Need Professional Hearing Aid Maintenance and Repair?
Professional servicing covers components and adjustments that cannot be managed through routine home care. A hearing care professional can clean and test the device or adjust its programming if your hearing needs have changed.
Arrange professional maintenance or repair if:
- Basic troubleshooting does not restore normal sound or charging.
- The hearing aid has been dropped, exposed to water or visibly damaged.
- Feedback continues after the device has been cleaned and reinserted.
- The tubing becomes stiff or discoloured, or the receiver wire appears damaged.
- The hearing aid no longer feels comfortable, or its settings no longer meet your needs.
Looking for a hearing aid repair service in Singapore?
At Hearing Partners, we provide repair and replacement services for hearing aids that are damaged or no longer working. Our hearing care professionals can assess the device and advise whether repair or replacement is appropriate.
Book an appointment at one of our hearing clinics to have your hearing aid assessed.
How Much Does Hearing Aid Maintenance Cost in Singapore?
At Hearing Partners, hearing aid maintenance generally costs between $218 and $381.50 per side (inclusive of 9% GST). The final cost will depend on the condition of your device and the work required. After inspecting the hearing aid, our team will explain the recommended service and confirm the applicable fee.
FAQs About Hearing Aid Maintenance and Cleaning
How long do hearing aids last?
Hearing aids generally last between three and seven years. Their lifespan depends on the device quality, how often theyโre worn and how well theyโre maintained.
How often should I clean my hearing aids?
Wipe your hearing aids and earpieces each day with a soft, dry cloth. Check them more thoroughly each week, and replace wax filters or disposable domes when clogged or according to the schedule recommended for your model.
Can I use water to clean my hearing aids?
Do not wash or immerse any part containing electronic components in water. Some detachable BTE earmoulds and hollow tubes can be washed with mild soap and water, but they must be completely dry before being reconnected.
Can I use alcohol wipes to clean my hearing aids?
Cleaning recommendations can vary between hearing aid models and components, so a soft, dry cloth is generally the safest option. Only use alcohol wipes if your hearing aid manufacturer or hearing care professional confirms they are suitable for your device.
Can I repair my hearing aids at home?
Some hearing aid issues can be managed at home by replacing batteries, domes, or wax filters. If the problem appears to be inside the device, it is best to leave the repair to a hearing care professional to avoid further damage or potentially affecting your warranty.
What should I do if my hearing aid gets wet?
Remove the hearing aid and wipe away any moisture. For a disposable-battery model, open the battery drawer, remove the battery and gently dry the drawer. Leave it open for approximately 30 minutes before inserting a new battery. For a rechargeable model, allow the device to dry before placing it in the charger.
Do not use direct heat. If the hearing aid still does not work, contact your hearing care professional. Although many Oticon models are water- and dust-resistant, they should not be worn while showering, swimming or participating in water activities.
Where can I go for hearing aid maintenance or repair in Singapore?
You can visit any Hearing Partners clinic in Singapore for hearing aid maintenance or repair. Our hearing care professionals can assess your device and advise on the appropriate next step.
What happens during a professional hearing aid servicing appointment?
Our hearing care professional will inspect your hearing aid and ask about the problem you have noticed. Depending on its condition, the appointment may involve cleaning, performance checks or adjustments.ย
If a repair or replacement is needed, the available options and applicable costs will be explained to you. If your hearing aid is not working as expected, book an appointment to have it assessed.