Remove earwax from hearing aids

Last update on Nov 07th, 2023

How earwax accumulates in hearing aids

Earwax, therefore, is a natural component of the ear's self-cleaning mechanism and is typically not a cause for concern. However, if you use hearing aids, the presence of earwax can disrupt their normal operation.

The presence of something in the ear, such as a hearing aid, creates a warm, moist environment in which the production of earwax can increase, accumulating and sometimes forming a real plug. Hence, it's crucial to clean your hearing aid daily to avoid the wax buildup that can damage specific components and the need for replacement.

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How does earwax affect hearing aids?

Removing earwax from hearing aids is important to prevent certain components from malfunctioning, such as: 

  • The opening of the device: this is where most earwax accumulates, causing sound distortions or whistling.
  • Filters: there is also a significant buildup of earwax in the filters, and when they are cleaned regularly, they maintain their efficiency for a longer period.
  • Receiver: another component that can be damaged by the presence of earwax is the receiver, resulting in reduced sound quality. 

If you have any doubts about the functioning of your hearing aid, you can always visit an Amplifon center where our hearing experts will be able to identify the cause of the distorted sound.

In general, earwax can affect the proper functioning of the hearing aid in various ways. Let's examine them in more detail.

Blocked or distorted sound

Wax should be removed from hearing aids because it can cause a distorted sound to be perceived and, in the long run, cause hearing impairments. Iin this case, one should not worry about a worsening of one's hearing ability, but rather investigating the reason by cleaning the aid.

Whistles

Excessive earwax on the hearing aid can also produce whistling and the cause behind this is rather straightforward. When there is an overabundance of earwax in the ear canal, it obstructs the passage of sound. Consequently, the sound doesn't reach its intended destination but instead reflects back onto the hearing aid, generating the bothersome whistling sound. Again, daily cleaning helps prevent these kinds of issues from ocurring.

Lower sound quality

Earwax has the potential to cause diminished hearing: the main sensation is that of muffling in the ears with sounds being perceived less and as if they were lower. In certain instances, a noticeable hearing impairment may be experienced. Again, before worrying about a worsening of hearing ability, it is best to consult an ENT specialist and investigate the cause, which could simply be an accumulation of earwax.

Itching

An itching sensation in the ears is one of the main symptoms of the presence of earwax in the ear cavity: it can be a simple tingling sensation, up to actual pain that disappears completely once the earwax is removed. This is because the excess earwax disrupts the normal balance of the ear cavity.
Check how to clean and keep your ears healthy Learn more

Does earwax damage the hearing aids?

Yes, it damages them. Hearing aids and earwax, after all, are always in contact, because earwax is an ever-present component of the ear.

The problem arises when the presence of earwax becomes excessive. Daily cleaning of the hearing aid and periodic check-ups prevent any breakage or sudden malfunction. Replacing parts that are damaged or about to be damaged is a good care practice for our hearing aids, which, although durable devices, require constant care.

How do you clean earwax from hearing aids?

As a standard practice, the foundation is daily cleaning with a gentle, dry cloth. The use of water, liquid detergents, solvents or alcohol, which can damage them, should be avoided. 

Also, when cleaning, it is best to hold the device on a soft surface to prevent it from falling. 

Amplifon offers a wide range of products for cleaning hearing aids, specific for all eventualities: finding the right cleaning routine increases wearing comfort, durability and operation.

1. Turn off your hearing aids

The first step to start cleaning hearing aids is to switch them off. This will enable you to remain composed and clean them to the best of your ability.

2. Remove batteries

The second step is to remove the batteries from the device, firstly to clean the cavity where they are placed, but also to let air into the section. 

Generally speaking, opening the battery compartment is a good thing even if you do not carry out a thorough cleaning as it allows air to pass through and avoids a build-up of moisture that could in the long run create persistent bacteria. It is also a good practice to preserve the life of the battery which, when open, is not in contact with any internal components.

3. Remove visible earwax

All that you need to remove visible earwax at home is a small brush which, when used gently, can remove any visible dirt. Particular attention should be paid to cleaning the opening of the hearing aid, where earwax builds up and causes distorted sounds or whistling, so that the receiver can continue to function properly.

4. Wax pick or loop tool

In the case of stubborn earwax, other products can also be used to remove earwax, such as drops, sprays or instruments that clean even the smallest external parts. All these instruments sanitise and disinfect the devices by removing germs, bacteria and deposited earwax. It is important to be careful when using them to not damage the parts by acting with more force than necessary.

5. Sanitary wipes

Using cleansing wipes helps to clean hearing aids from bacteria and fungi and to reduce the risk of infections and inflammations that may arise if cleaning is not optimal. It is best to choose alcohol-free ones, which are gentler and suitable for even the most sensitive ears.

6. Earwax in tubes

When cleaning your hearing aids of wax, it is also good to take a look at the hearing aid tubing, which is responsible for transferring sound into the ear, and is therefore very important for hearing correctly.

7. Use cleaning solution

Each hearing aid has specific characteristics, so using cleaning solutions will keep it working for longer. A consultation with a hearing specialist can help you find the most suitable one on the market.

8. Dry and reassemble

Once the individual components have been cleaned, they should be left to air dry and not reassembled as soon as possible: leaving them to dry thoroughly limits the risk of moisture developing inside and prevents non-visible parts from being damaged by droplets or residue. Finally, re-insert the batteries into the appropriate cable.

9. Soundcheck

Once the instrument has been reassembled after cleaning, the last step is to check that the sound produced is what is expected and, above all, that it is better than what was heard before cleaning. This step will help to find out whether the procedure was done correctly or if it needs to be done again, or if it's best to go to your nearest hearing cenre for a consultation.

10. Store hearing aids in protective case

Once the individual parts have been cleaned, batteries have been put in and a sound check has been carried out, all that remains is to place the hearing aids in their protective case. Here, they can safely spend the night, shielded from any threats or factors that could hinder their functionality.

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Find out more about other hearing diseases and symptoms 

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Can audiologists remove earwax?

Yes, audiologists can remove earwax from hearing aids. In addition to daily cleaning, it is important to carry out regular checks of the device to prevent problems or sudden malfunctions.

How to prevent earwax accumulation in hearing aids

Removing earwax from hearing aids on a daily basis by cleaning the external components is important to prevent earwax build-up, avoid premature replacement of parts and continue to hear well without hiccups.

The importance of regular maintenance and checks

Besides the daily cleaning of earwax from hearing aids, regular check-ups in specialised centres are important for:

  • Having optimal sound quality
  • Avoiding breakage or malfunctioning of certain components
  • Replacing damaged components. 

Amplifon centers are conveniently located across United Kingdom, with a team of dedicated audiologists and hearing care professionals ready to assist you in achieving optimal hearing day by day.

Other questions? Come and visit us in an Amplifon center

Book an appointment and come and visit us at one of our Amplifon centers, our hearing care professionals will be ready to answer any of your curiosities about the world of hearing and to show you our range of Amplifon hearing aids.

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