Cleaning your hearing aids regularly is key to keeping sound quality high and devices working well for longer. Whether you have BTE or ITE Cleaning hearing aids, proper care and cleaning stop malfunctions. This guide from Hearing Health Hub shows you how to clean both types, with essential tools and tips.

Why Cleaning Hearing Aids Matters

Hearing aids are close to or inside your ear, making them prone to wax, sweat, and dust. Build-up can block sound, cause discomfort, or harm the device. Regular cleaning saves on repair costs and boosts performance.

How Often Should a Hearing Aid Be Cleaned?

• Daily: Wipe the outer surface with a soft, dry cloth or hearing aid cleaning wipes.
• Weekly: Deep clean with specialized tools like a hearing aid cleaning wire or brush.
• Monthly: Check for moisture and replace filters or wax guards as needed.

Understanding the Differences: BTE vs. ITE Hearing Aids

It’s crucial to know the differences between BTE and ITE hearing aids before cleaning.

• Behind-the-Ear (BTE): These sit behind the ear and connect to an earmold or dome in the ear canal. They’re easier to clean but have more tubing.
• In-the-Ear (ITE): These fit directly in the ear canal and have more exposed parts to wax.

Each type needs different tools and techniques for cleaning.

Cleaning Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

Daily Routine:

• Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the hearing aid casing.
• Remove earwax from the earmold with a hearing aid cleaning brush.
• Avoid using water or cleaning solutions directly on the device.

Weekly Cleaning:

• Detach the earmold and clean it with warm, soapy water.
• Dry it thoroughly overnight before reattaching.
• Use a hearing aid cleaning wire or air blower to clean tubing.

Tips for Tubing Maintenance:

• Tubes should be free of moisture and wax. A hearing aid cleaning wire can help keep the tubing clear.
• Replace tubing every 3-6 months, depending on usage.

Recommended Tools:

• Hearing aid cleaning kit (available from NHS, Boots, or Specsavers)
• Air blower
• Cleaning wire
• Cleaning brush or loop tool

Cleaning In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

Daily Routine:

• Use hearing aid cleaning wipes or a dry cloth to clean the surface.
• Gently brush the microphone ports and receiver with a soft-bristled brush.

Weekly Cleaning:

• Check and replace wax guards or filters if necessary.
• Use a wax loop to remove debris from vents or sound bores.
• Never immerse the device in water.

Moisture Management:

• Store devices in a hearing aid dehumidifier overnight.
• Use a drying capsule to extend device life.

Recommended Tools:

• Hearing aid cleaning kit with brushes and wax loops
• Hearing aid cleaning wipes
• Drying containers or dehumidifiers

Best Hearing Aid Cleaning Kits to Use

Many trusted brands have great hearing aid cleaning kits. Here are some top picks:

• NHS Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit: Perfect for simple cleaning, it has a brush, wire, and wax loop.
• Boots Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit: It has a drying box, brush, and cleaning wire for tubing.
• Specsavers Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit: It has everything you need for BTE and ITE devices.

What to Look For in a Cleaning Kit:

• Wax removal tools
• Brush and pick
• Tubing cleaner or wire
• Cleaning cloth or wipes
• Drying capsules

Common Questions About Hearing Aid Cleaning

How do you clean hearing aids without damaging them? Use special tools for hearing aids. Don’t use alcohol or water and never use sharp objects.

How do I clean hearing aid tubes? Take off the tubing and use a cleaning wire. Use an air blower to dry it out.

Can I clean my hearing aids with household items? No, only use products made for hearing aid care to avoid damage.

Is it necessary to clean hearing aids every day? Yes, daily cleaning stops buildup and keeps sound quality good.

Final Tips from Hearing Health Hub

1. Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids.
2. Clean in a well-lit area with a towel to catch drops.
3. Keep your cleaning kit ready for regular use.
4. See your audiologist for professional cleaning if needed.
5. Store your aids in a dry, safe place away from pets and kids.

Conclusion

Keeping your hearing aids clean is a small habit with big benefits. Whether you have BTE or ITE devices, cleaning them regularly improves your hearing and extends their life. With kits from NHS, Specsavers, and Boots, and advice from Hearing Health Hub, you’re all set.