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ITE Hearing Aid Maintenance

Essential Care Tips for Your In-the-Ear Device

Why ITE Hearing Aid Maintenance Matters?

Proper maintenance of your in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid is essential to keep it functioning effectively and extend its lifespan. Because ITE hearing aids fit snugly inside the ear canal, they are especially susceptible to earwax accumulation and moisture damage. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and specialised tools helps prevent blockages and ensures clear sound quality. Moreover, storing your hearing aids in a dry environment and using a dehumidifier overnight can protect them from moisture-related issues. Consistent care not only enhances the device’s performance but also lowers the chances of costly repairs or replacements.

What Are In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids?

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-made devices that fit neatly inside the outer ear. They are designed to be discreet and comfortable, making them a popular choice in Australia for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss. Unlike behind-the-ear models, ITE aids are less visible and easier to handle, as all components are housed within a single shell.

Pros and Cons of In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

1) Pros:

  • Custom fit for comfort and natural sound quality.
  • Less conspicuous than behind-the-ear models.
  • Easy to insert and remove.
  • Suitable for various degrees of hearing loss.

2) Cons:

  • More vulnerable to damage from ear wax and moisture.
  • Smaller size may be difficult for some users with limited dexterity.
  • Typically shorter battery life than larger hearing aids.
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How to Clean In-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Proper cleaning of ITE hearing aids is essential to maintain their performance and longevity. 

Here’s how you can care for them:

  • Wipe your hearing aids daily with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Avoid using water or cleaning fluids that could damage internal electronics.
  • Use a small brush or wax pick, often provided by your audiologist, to gently remove earwax.
  • Store your hearing aids in a dry place overnight, ideally in a hearing aid dehumidifier.

Regular cleaning helps prevent wax buildup, which can impair sound quality and function.

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hands hold ite batteries

Replacing the Filter of ITE Hearing Aid

The filter in an In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aid plays a crucial role in protecting the device from earwax and debris, helping to maintain sound quality and prevent damage. Over time, these filters can become clogged or worn out and need replacing.

How to Replace the Filter:

  • Use the special removal tool provided with your hearing aid.
  • Gently pull out the old filter without damaging the device.
  • Insert a new filter firmly in place.

If unsure, ask your audiologist for assistance to avoid damaging your hearing aid.

Regularly replacing the filter ensures your ITE hearing aid stays clean, performs well, and lasts longer.

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Wax and In-the-Ear Hearing Aids: What you should know

Earwax is a common concern for ITE hearing aid users. Because these devices sit inside the ear canal, wax can build up on or inside the hearing aid, potentially blocking sound or damaging delicate components. Regular cleaning and professional maintenance are key to avoiding wax-related issues. Your audiologist may also supply wax guards or filters for added protection.

When to seek professional hearing aid maintenance

While regular at-home care is important, there are times when professional maintenance is necessary to keep your hearing aids functioning properly. You should consult your audiologist if you notice persistent issues such as reduced sound quality, feedback or whistling noises, physical damage, or if your device stops working altogether. Additionally, routine professional check-ups—typically every six months—allow experts to clean, adjust, and service your hearing aids, ensuring they perform optimally and last longer. Seeking professional help promptly can prevent minor problems from becoming costly repairs.
An audiologist helping the client wearing a hearing aid at the Amplifon center

Why choose Amplifon?

By choosing Amplifon as your hearing care provider, you’re choosing to be cared and looked after by qualified and experienced Audiologists who can help change the way you listen to the world around you.

Have a look at our related contents

Learn more on how your hearing works, thanks to our experts contents. You can also have a look at our blog, with our lates news. 

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