Hearing aid cleaning and maintenance products

Proper maintenance plays a vital role in keeping hearing aids functioning well, extending their lifespan, and ensuring clear sound quality.

Although product names differ, most accessory ranges include the same essential items, such as wipes, sprays, brushes, drying systems, filters, and cleaning wires. The key is to follow a consistent care routine that combines light daily cleaning, more thorough weekly attention, ongoing moisture control, and regular replacement of parts like filters or wax guards.

With careful handling and the right tools, it is possible to reduce wear and tear and maintain dependable performance from your hearing devices.

Hearing aids are delicate electronic devices that sit close to or in the ear, and they are exposed to moisture, earwax, skin oils, dust, and debris. Without regular care, these factors can degrade performance (e.g., muffled sound, intermittent signal, squealing) and shorten the lifespan of the device.

Using proper maintenance tools and products helps you:

• Preserve sound quality
• Prevent damage to sensitive components
• Minimize repairs or replacements
• Maintain hygiene and reduce risks of ear irritation or infection

Below is a breakdown of the typical types of maintenance products, how and when to use them, and tips for safe use.

Cleaning kits / multi-tool sets

• Contain brushes, picks, wire cleaners, cloths, and more.
• Ideal for deep cleaning sessions (e.g., weekly).
• Make sure the kit is suitable for your hearing aid materials.

Cleaning wipes (pre-moistened, antimicrobial, alcohol-free)

• Wipe down outer surfaces to remove debris and disinfect.
• Use daily or when removing the device.
• Avoid over-wetting or touching microphone openings.

Cleaning sprays / liquid cleaners

• Loosen and remove wax or grime from surfaces and earmolds.
• Apply to a cloth or cleaning pad, never spray liquids directly on the device.

Drying / dehumidifying devices, capsules, jars

• Remove moisture that can damage electronics.
• Use nightly or after exposure to sweat or humidity.

Wire / stick cleaners, vent cleaners

• Thin tools designed to clear tubing, vents, or narrow passages.
• Insert gently and avoid pushing debris further inside.

Brushes, picks, wax loops, magnets

• Remove stuck wax or debris from crevices, vents, and battery compartments.
• Use soft, small tools to avoid scratching or damaging components.

Filters, wax guards, screen covers

• Prevent wax from entering sensitive parts such as microphones or receivers.
• Replace on a regular schedule according to guidance.

Moisture absorbing pucks / desiccants

• Provide passive moisture control in storage or charging cases.
• Place in the storage container whenever the device is not in use.

Hearing aids need both regular at-home care and professional servicing. Here’s a clear breakdown:

• Daily / Weekly (at home): Wipe down the device after each use. Use brushes, wipes, or cleaning tools to remove wax and debris. Store in a drying container or dehumidifier overnight.
• Every 3–6 months (professional check-up): Have your hearing aids inspected and cleaned by a hearing care professional. They can clear wax from hard-to-reach areas, check tubing, replace filters, and test sound output.
• Annually (full service): A comprehensive service is recommended at least once a year. May include performance testing, software updates, and replacement of worn parts (e.g., tubing, earmolds, filters).
• As needed: Book an appointment sooner if you notice issues such as muffled or distorted sound, feedback (whistling), sudden battery drain, or physical damage.

Rule of thumb:

• Every 3–6 months for professional maintenance
• Once a year for a full service
• Light cleaning at home daily

Remember that most Miracle-Ear hearing aids come with unlimited care*, so never hesitate to schedule an appointment with your hearing care professional.

Generally, you should avoid alcohol wipes on hearing aid domes unless they are specifically marked as hearing aid–safe or alcohol-free. Here’s why:

Standard alcohol wipes can:

• Dry out and harden the silicone or rubber material of the domes.
• Cause cracking or premature wear.
• Leave behind residue that may irritate the ear canal.

Recommended alternative:

• Use alcohol-free, antimicrobial wipes that are designed for hearing aids and earmolds.
• These clean effectively without damaging delicate materials.

If you only have alcohol wipes:

• Use sparingly and avoid soaking the dome.
• Allow it to dry completely before reinserting it in your ear.
• Replace the domes regularly (every 1–3 months, or sooner if they harden or discolor).

Best practice:

Stick with wipes or sprays labeled safe for hearing aids, or clean domes with warm soapy water (if detachable) and let them dry fully before reattaching.

• Lecture muffling / crackling — Often caused by wax build-up on microphones or receivers. Cleaning wipes, brushes, and filters may solve this.
• Intermittent sound or dropouts — Moisture or debris in the circuitry may be the culprit. Drying units and gentle cleaning may help.
• Distortion / feedback — Caused by partial blockage or leaks (e.g., blocked vents). Vent cleaners or new wax guards can remedy this.
• Battery compartment corrosion or contact issues — Keep battery contacts clean and dry. Use dust covers or protective tools as needed.

Sweat, humidity, and condensation can damage sensitive electronic components, leading to distorted sound, shortened battery life, or complete device failure. Hearing aid dryers and dehumidifiers are designed to protect against this by removing excess moisture and keeping devices in optimal condition. There are two main types of drying systems: electronic dryers and passive dehumidifiers. 

Electronic dryers often use gentle heat, circulating air, or UV light to thoroughly dry and sanitize hearing aids overnight. Many models include timed cycles and automatic shut-off for convenience. Especially beneficial for people living in humid climates or those who wear their hearing aids for long hours.

Passive dehumidifiers, such as drying capsules or desiccant jars, rely on moisture-absorbing materials to draw humidity away from the hearing aids. Compact, affordable, and easy to use, making them a good option for travel or as a backup solution.

Incorporating a drying system into your daily routine helps prevent costly repairs, extend the lifespan of your hearing aids, and ensures clearer sound, reliable performance, and healthier ears.

Important reminder: If your hearing aid uses removable batteries, remove the batteries when using the hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier. These devices can shorten battery life if left in the device.

On average, a hearing aid lasts five to seven years. The exact lifespan depends on several factors:

• Build quality and technology level – Premium models with advanced components may last longer, though they can also become outdated more quickly as new technology emerges.
• Maintenance and care – Regular cleaning, moisture control, and professional servicing extend lifespan significantly.
• Environment – High humidity, heavy perspiration, or dusty surroundings can shorten device life.
• Usage habits – Daily wear for many hours a day naturally leads to more wear and tear.
• Battery type – Rechargeable batteries typically need replacing after 3–5 years, which may influence whether the whole device is upgraded.

Many people choose to replace hearing aids every 4–6 years, not only due to wear but also because newer models often offer better sound processing, comfort, and connectivity features.

*Cleanings and in-office service are always free. Miracle-Ear® lifetime aftercare not included with hearing aids purchased utilizing some insurance benefits. See store for details.