Hearing aids help you hear better, but they need regular care to work properly. One important part of hearing aid maintenance is taking care of the wax guard. The wax guard is a small filter that protects the hearing aid from earwax, dust, and debris. Over time, the wax guard can get clogged, which may make sounds seem muffled or too quiet.
A common question people ask is: Can hearing aid wax guards be cleaned? The short answer is no.
Most wax guards are designed to be replaced, not cleaned. However, there are some ways to keep your hearing aids working well and prevent wax buildup.
Let’s go over what wax guards do, how often they should be replaced, and the best way to care for them.
What Is a Hearing Aid Wax Guard?
A wax guard is a small, round, or square filter placed on the speaker of a hearing aid. Its job is to keep earwax, dirt, and moisture from getting inside the device.
Most hearing aids, especially receiver-in-canal (RIC) and in-the-ear (ITE) models, have wax guards. These hearing aids sit inside or near the ear canal, where wax can easily build up. Without a wax guard, earwax could block the hearing aid’s speaker, making it harder to hear clearly.
Can Wax Guards Be Cleaned?
Wax guards are not meant to be cleaned. Once they get clogged, they should be replaced with a new one. Trying to clean a wax guard can damage it or push wax deeper into the filter, making it less effective.
Instead of cleaning the wax guard, you can:
- Wipe the outside of your hearing aid daily to remove wax and dirt.
- Use a dry, soft brush to gently clean around the wax guard.
- Replace the wax guard when it gets clogged or every few weeks.
How Often Should You Replace a Wax Guard?
The frequency of replacement depends on how much earwax your ears produce and how often you wear your hearing aids.
Most people need to change their wax guards every 2 to 4 weeks, but you may need to do it more often if:
- You produce a lot of earwax.
- You live in a dusty or humid environment.
- Your hearing aids sound quieter than usual.
- You notice distorted or muffled sound.
If your hearing aids stop working properly, a clogged wax guard could be the cause. Replacing it is a simple fix that can improve sound quality right away.
How to Replace a Wax Guard
Most hearing aids come with a wax guard replacement tool. Here’s how to change it:
- Remove the old wax guard: Use the removal side of the tool to take out the clogged wax guard.
- Insert the new wax guard: Use the other side of the tool to place a fresh wax guard into the hearing aid.
- Dispose of the old wax guard: Never reuse an old wax guard.
If you’re unsure how to replace your wax guard, your audiologist can show you how.
Harbor City Hearing Solutions connects you to expert audiologists in Melbourne, FL.
How to Prevent Wax Buildup in Your Hearing Aids
Even though you can’t clean a wax guard, you can take steps to keep your hearing aids working well:
- Clean your hearing aids daily: Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth to remove wax and dirt.
- Brush away debris: Use a hearing aid cleaning brush to gently clean around the wax guard.
- Keep ears clean: If you have excessive ear wax, talk to an audiologist about safe ear cleaning methods. Harbor City Hearing Solutions connects you to expert audiologists in Melbourne, FL.
- Store hearing aids in a dry place: Moisture can make wax buildup worse, so store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier or drying box at night.
When to See an Audiologist
If you’ve replaced the wax guard but your hearing aids still sound weak or distorted, there may be another issue. An audiologist can:
- Deep clean your hearing aids.
- Check for other problems, like a blocked microphone or tubing.
- Help you find the right wax guards for your hearing aid model.
Final Thoughts
Hearing aid wax guards can’t be cleaned, but they can be easily replaced. Changing your wax guard regularly helps keep your hearing aids working at their best.
Audiologists in Melbourne, FL
If you’re not sure how to replace your wax guard or need help with hearing aid maintenance, an audiologist can guide you.
Taking good care of your hearing aids will help you hear clearly and keep them working for a long time!
Harbor City Hearing Solutions connects you to expert audiologists in Melbourne, FL.Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
