The hearing aid mold (or earmold) is the custom-fitted piece that sits inside the ear canal, delivering amplified sound from the device. It is designed for comfort and creates an acoustic seal necessary for the hearing aid to function effectively without feedback. Because the mold is constantly exposed to earwax and moisture, regular cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal sound quality and device performance. Neglecting this routine can lead to sound blockages, a shortened device lifespan, and potential hygiene issues like ear infections.
Essential Tools and Daily Maintenance
Daily maintenance is the first line of defense against performance issues caused by debris accumulation. This routine requires specialized tools, including a wax pick or loop, a small cleaning brush, and a soft, dry cloth. Upon removing the hearing aid, gently wipe the entire surface of the mold with the soft cloth to remove surface oils and moisture.
The small channels and vents in the mold require focused attention, which is where the cleaning brush and wax pick become necessary. Use the specialized brush to sweep away any visible earwax or debris from the sound bore and vent openings. If the wax is hardened or lodged deep within the bore, carefully use the wax pick or loop to extract it, always moving the tool outwards to avoid pushing the blockage further into the mold. This simple process prevents the buildup of material that can rapidly diminish sound clarity.
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Procedure
A thorough deep clean, typically performed weekly, requires detaching the mold from the main electronic component, which must never be exposed to water. Gently separate the soft tubing connected to the mold from the hard plastic ear hook of the hearing aid body. Carefully identify the right and left molds before separating them, as they are not interchangeable.
Once the mold and tubing are detached, prepare a gentle cleaning solution using lukewarm water and a small amount of mild liquid soap, such as dish soap. Place the detached mold and tubing into the soapy water, allowing them to soak for a brief period, generally a few minutes, to soften any persistent wax. After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush, like a small, soft toothbrush, to scrub the surfaces of the mold and the openings, paying specific attention to the bore and vent channels.
After thoroughly cleaning the mold, rinse it completely under running, lukewarm water to ensure all soap residue is removed. Residual soap can attract dirt and may cause skin irritation in the ear canal. During rinsing, hold the mold carefully to avoid dropping it and inspect the tubing to confirm no soap film remains inside. Complete moisture removal is important to prevent internal damage to the hearing aid.
Ensuring Complete Drying and Reassembly
The most crucial step following any water-based cleaning is the complete removal of all moisture from the mold and tubing before reattaching it to the electronic device. Even a small amount of water left in the tubing can travel to the receiver, causing damage or immediately blocking the sound transmission. After rinsing, vigorously shake the mold to expel excess water, then wipe the exterior with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Next, a specialized tool, known as an ear mold blower or puffer, is used to force air through the tubing and sound bore. Insert the nozzle of the blower securely into the opening of the tubing and compress the bulb multiple times until no visible droplets or cloudiness remain within the tube. If the tubing is not fully clear, the hearing aid will sound muffled or fail to produce sound entirely.
Allow the mold and tubing to air-dry for several hours, ideally overnight, to ensure all internal and external moisture has evaporated. Once fully dry, reattach the tubing to the hearing aid’s ear hook, ensuring the connection is snug and the mold’s orientation is correct for the ear. This secures the mold back into the system, restoring the device to its optimal, clean, and functional condition.