Your hearing aids sit in your ears all day – a place that is dark and moist, and a perfect breeding ground for fungus and bacteria. Some of the bacteria that can grow on a hearing aid can cause irritation in the lining of your ear canal. This irritation can lead to redness, itching, swelling, pain, and an unpleasant odor.

Use The Right Cleaning Tools

Cleaning your ​​hearing aids​ with a cloth isn’t enough to get rid of all the germs and bacteria. Alcohol pads will ruin the surface of your hearing aids, so it’s best to use non-alcohol based disinfectant wipes or spray using a clean cloth. Ask your audiologist to recommend their preferred brand.

How To Disinfect Your Hearing Aids

To properly clean your hearing aids, follow these simple steps every night:

1. Thoroughly wash and dry your hands before removing your hearing aids.

2. Wipe your hearing aids with a clean, dry tissue.

3. Disinfect the surfaces of your hearing aids with a non-alcohol based disinfectant towelette.

Keep Your Hearing Aids Safe

When you take your hearing aids out, always clean and disinfect them, and store them in their case. Never put them in your purse or pocket, or leave them on the counter top. Not only will they just get dirty again, but they could easily be damaged or broken, or get into the hands of a small child or the mouth of a pet.

Additional Use & Care Tips

Disinfecting your hearing aids is only one part of the care they need. Use these ​hearing aid maintenance tips for a more complete use and care strategy.

Spending a little time taking care of your hearing aids each day will keep them working their best for years to come, and help prevent infections and irritation. Speak to your audiologist about the best way to care for your specific type of hearing aids, and enjoy a lifetime of healthy hearing.