How to Clean Your Hearing Aids — GN ReSound & Oticon Step-by-Step Guide

Watch: GN ReSound Hearing Aid Cleaning Tutorial

Regular cleaning is one of the most important things you can do to protect your hearing aids and keep them performing at their best. Earwax, moisture, and debris are the leading causes of hearing aid damage and reduced sound quality. Our team at Scottsdale Ear, Nose & Throat has put together this step-by-step guide — plus instructional videos — specifically for two of the brands we carry: GN ReSound and Oticon.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters

Your hearing aids sit in one of the warmest, most humid environments on your body. Daily exposure to earwax, skin oils, and perspiration can clog microphone ports, damage receivers, and shorten the lifespan of your devices. A consistent daily cleaning routine takes just two to three minutes and can add years to the life of your investment.

Important: Never use water, alcohol wipes, solvents, or any liquid directly on your hearing aids unless the manufacturer specifically states they are waterproof. Always let your aids air dry with the battery door open overnight.

How to Clean GN ReSound Hearing Aids

GN ReSound manufactures a range of behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. While the specific components may vary by model, the core cleaning steps apply across the ReSound product line.

What You Will Need:

• Soft-bristle hearing aid brush (usually included with your device)
• Wax pick or wire loop tool
• Dry cloth or microfiber tissue
• Drying kit or dehumidifier (recommended)
• Replacement wax guards (for RIC models)

Daily Cleaning Steps:

1. Start at the end of the day — always clean your hearing aids in the evening so they have time to air dry overnight. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling.
2. Remove the hearing aid — take it out carefully and hold it over a soft surface like a cloth or towel in case it slips.
3. Brush the microphone ports — use the soft-bristle brush to gently sweep away debris from the microphone openings. Hold the aid with the ports facing downward so loosened wax falls out rather than deeper in.
4. Clean the receiver or speaker tip — for RIC models, inspect the dome or mold tip. Use the wax pick to carefully remove any wax buildup from the opening.
5. Check and replace the wax guard — if your ReSound model uses an HF4 wax filter, inspect it. A clogged wax guard is the number one reason ReSound users report reduced volume. Replace it if it appears blocked or discolored.
6. Wipe the body of the aid — use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire casing, removing skin oils and moisture.
7. Open the battery door — if your model uses disposable batteries, open the battery door at night to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup inside the housing.
8. Store in a drying kit — place your aids in an electronic drying kit or desiccant jar overnight to remove accumulated moisture.

General Hearing Aid Care Tips

These best practices apply to all hearing aid brands and help extend the life of your devices regardless of which model you wear.

• Clean your hearing aids every day, ideally before bed
• Store them in a dry, cool location away from direct sunlight
• Remove your aids before showering, swimming, or using hair spray
• Schedule a professional in-office cleaning every three to six months
• Never use water, alcohol, or cleaning sprays unless your device is rated waterproof
• Never use cotton swabs inside any ports or openings
• Do not leave your aids in a hot car — heat can warp casings and damage electronics
• Do not ignore sudden changes in volume or sound quality — this often signals a clogged wax guard

Common Questions About Hearing Aid Cleaning

How often should I clean my hearing aids?
Daily cleaning at home is recommended for all hearing aid users. A professional in-office cleaning every three to six months helps remove buildup that home tools cannot reach.

What is a wax guard and when should I replace it?
A wax guard is a small filter that sits at the tip of the receiver and prevents earwax from entering and damaging the speaker. ReSound and Oticon both use proprietary wax guard systems. Replace it when you notice reduced sound volume or if it appears visibly clogged or discolored.

Can I use alcohol wipes to clean my hearing aids?
No. Alcohol and other liquid cleaners can damage the housing, seals, and electronics of most hearing aids. Use only dry tools such as a brush or microfiber cloth unless your specific model is rated as waterproof.

Where can I get replacement wax guards and domes in Scottsdale?
Our hearing center carries replacement accessories for both ReSound and Oticon devices. Contact us or ask at your next appointment and our team will make sure you have what you need.

Have questions about your specific ReSound model or need new wax guards or domes? Our hearing center carries ReSound accessories and our team is happy to walk you through a cleaning demonstration at your next visit.

Our hearing center team is here to help – whether you need a professional cleaning, replacement accessories, or a full hearing evaluation.