A hearing aid that receives consistent, thoughtful care not only sounds better — it lasts longer. Good maintenance habits protect your investment and keep the device reliable day after day. The following guide covers the most important practices every hearing aid wearer should know.
Regular Cleaning
Make wiping down your hearing aids part of your daily routine. A soft, dry cloth is all you need to gently clean the outer casing. Steer clear of water and liquid cleaners, which can seep into and damage sensitive electronic components. Keeping the surfaces clean also prevents debris from collecting around the microphone and speaker openings.
Pay close attention to the ear molds as well. Earwax buildup is a common culprit behind reduced sound quality. A wax removal tool can address surface buildup, but be careful not to push wax deeper into the device. For a more thorough cleaning, schedule time with a hearing health professional.
Proper Storage
When you take your hearing aids out for the evening, store them in a protective case rather than setting them on a countertop or nightstand. A case shields the devices from accidental drops, dust, and other hazards. Choose a storage spot that stays cool and dry — away from direct sunlight and heat sources, both of which can harm delicate internal components.
Leave the battery compartment door open overnight. This simple habit lets any accumulated moisture evaporate and helps extend battery life. A hearing aid dehumidifier takes things a step further by actively drawing moisture away from the device during storage.
Battery Care
Always use the battery type specified for your particular device. Before inserting a fresh battery, wipe it lightly with a dry cloth to remove surface oils or grime, which can interfere with a solid connection. Handling batteries with clean, dry hands during the swap also makes a difference.
Store spare batteries in a cool, dry location and keep them away from metal objects — loose change, keys, or other items in a pocket or bag can short-circuit a battery before you ever have a chance to use it.
Avoiding Moisture
Moisture is one of the most common sources of hearing aid damage. Remove your devices before swimming, bathing, showering, or heading out in heavy rain. If they do get wet, take the batteries out right away and allow the aids to dry fully before putting the batteries back in.
Using a hearing aid dehumidifier each night is a smart preventive measure. These devices pull out the moisture that naturally builds up during daily wear, helping to protect internal components and maintain consistent performance.
Routine Professional Checkups
Even with diligent at-home care, regular visits to a hearing health professional are essential. A clinician can perform deep cleanings, examine all components for wear, and fine-tune device settings. Catching small issues early almost always prevents larger — and more costly — problems down the road.
Don't hesitate to bring up any changes you've noticed in how your hearing aids sound or feel. Timely attention to minor concerns keeps your devices functioning at full effectiveness and ensures that any repairs are addressed promptly.
Handle with Care
Whenever you insert or remove your hearing aids, do so over a soft surface such as a bed or a padded table. If a device slips from your fingers, a soft landing dramatically reduces the chance of damage. Avoid gripping or pressing on the microphone ports and other small components, and follow the manufacturer's handling guidelines to the letter.
Preventing Physical Damage
Accidental impact is among the leading reasons hearing aids end up needing repair. Consider removing your devices during contact sports or any activity that carries a high risk of a jarring fall or collision.
If you do drop a hearing aid, look it over carefully for visible signs of damage. Even when nothing obvious appears wrong, it's worth having a hearing health professional inspect it — internal components can shift or crack without any outward indication. Contact us today if you have questions or would like to schedule a checkup with our team in San Diego.