If you wear a hearing aid every day, cleaning it regularly is key. It's not just for hygiene, but also for sound clarity and comfort. At Hearing Health Hub, we often get asked:
“How often should a hearing aid be cleaned?”

We'll show you how often and how to clean your hearing aid. We'll also talk about the right <a href="https://hearinghealthhub.co.uk/how-to-clean-hearing-aid-tubes/">hearing aid cleaning tools</a> and how to care for your device. This applies to both in-the-ear and behind-the-ear models.

Why Hearing Aid Cleaning Matters

Your hearing aids face a lot of challenges every day. Earwax, moisture, dust, and oils can all cause problems. They can block the device's microphone or speaker, reduce sound quality, and even damage it permanently.

Benefits of regular cleaning include:

• Sharper, clearer sound

• Better hygiene

• Fewer breakdowns or repairs

• Longer device lifespan

• Reduced discomfort or irritation

To keep your hearing aid working well, daily and weekly maintenance is crucial. You'll also need the right hearing aid cleaning kit.

How Often Should You Clean a Hearing Aid?

The cleaning frequency depends on the device type and your lifestyle. Generally:

Daily Hearing Aid Cleaning Routine

Just a few minutes each day can prevent buildup and keep your device running smoothly.

1. Wipe the Exterior

Use a clean, dry cloth or hearing aid cleaning wipes to gently clean the surface. Avoid water or household cleaners.

2. Inspect for Wax

Earwax can cause sound distortion. Check the speaker or receiver area for any visible wax and remove it using a brush or hearing aid cleaning wire.

3. Dry the Device

Always store your hearing aids in a dry, ventilated container or drying box overnight. This helps protect internal components from moisture damage.

Weekly to Monthly Deep Cleaning

A deeper clean ensures longevity and peak performance. Here’s how:

1. Use a Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit

A reliable hearing aid cleaning kit typically includes:

• Cleaning brush

• Wax loop

• Hearing aid cleaning wire

• Microfiber cloth

• Vent cleaner or pick

Choose a cleaning kit for hearing aids that suits your model—some are made specifically for behind-the-ear (BTE) or in-the-ear (ITE) devices.

2. Clean the Microphone and Receiver Ports

Use the brush to gently sweep debris from these sensitive areas. This helps prevent blockages and feedback issues.

3. Clean Hearing Aid Tubes

If you use a BTE hearing aid, cleaning the tubing is critical:

• Detach the tubing from the hearing aid

• Use a hearing aid cleaning wire to remove blockages

• Rinse the tube in warm (not hot) water, dry completely, then reattach

This process, known as cleaning hearing aid tubes, should be done every 2–4 weeks depending on wax build-up.

4. Change Wax Guards

If your hearing aid uses a wax filter or guard, check and change it weekly. These are designed to catch wax before it enters sensitive components.

Cleaning by Hearing Aid Type

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Models:

• Clean tubing regularly with a hearing aid cleaning wire

• Wipe down the casing daily

• Clean the earmold with mild soap and water (disconnect from device first)

In-the-Ear (ITE) or Canal Hearing Aids:

• Use a brush to clean sound ports and microphone areas

• Use a vent cleaner tool to remove internal wax

• Avoid moisture—drying containers are essential

Can You Clean Hearing Aids with Household Items?

While it may be tempting, we recommend specialized hearing aid cleaning tools over DIY alternatives. Using toothpicks, tissues, or water can damage components or push debris further into the device.

Instead, use approved hearing aid cleaning wipes, cleaning wires, and brushes found in a reliable hearing aid cleaning kit.

What Comes in a Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit?

Whether you're using an NHS-provided set or purchasing your own, a comprehensive hearing aids cleaning kit typically contains:

• Small soft-bristle brush

• Wax pick or loop

• Vent cleaner

• Cloth or wipes

• Hearing aid cleaning wire (especially useful for tubing)

Some kits are even labeled as hearing aid cleaning kit NHS or compatible with certain brands, but what matters most is using tools designed specifically for hearing aids.

Drying and Moisture Control

Moisture is the silent killer of hearing aids. To protect your devices:

• Use a drying box overnight

• Avoid wearing hearing aids during showers or in heavy rain

• Always dry your hands before handling the device

Signs Your Hearing Aid Needs Cleaning

Not sure if it’s time to clean your device? Watch for these common signs:

• Sound is muffled or distorted

• Whistling or feedback when the device is in your ear

• Volume is unusually low

• You see visible wax or dirt

• Tubing appears blocked or cloudy

If issues persist after cleaning, consult your audiologist or a hearing aid professional.

FAQs – How to Clean Hearing Aids

Q: How do I clean hearing aids without damaging them?
A: Use tools from a hearing aid cleaning kit, like a soft brush and wax loop. Never use water or harsh chemicals.

Q: How to clean hearing aid tubes safely?
A: Detach the tubing, clean with a hearing aid cleaning wire, and let it dry fully before reattaching.

Q: How do I clean hearing aids every day?
A: Wipe the device surface with a cloth or hearing aid cleaning wipes, check for wax, and store in a dry place.

Q: How often should a hearing aid be cleaned?
A: Daily surface cleaning with weekly deep maintenance will keep your device in excellent condition.

Q: Are hearing aid cleaning tools universal?
A: Most tools work across models, but always check that your hearing aid cleaning kit is suitable for your specific device.

Conclusion: Clean Hearing Aids, Better Hearing

So, how often should a hearing aid be cleaned? Clean it a little each day and do a deeper clean weekly. This keeps your hearing aid working well and saves you money on repairs or new ones.

Whether you have a basic or advanced hearing aid, the main thing is to have the right hearing aid cleaning kit and follow a routine.

At Hearing Health Hub, we want you to hear clearly, comfortably, and confidently. Check out our resources for more on how to clean hearing aids, how to maintain them, and the latest in hearing care.