Modern hearing aids are remarkable pieces of technology — miniature computers worn in or behind your ear, continuously processing sound to help you hear clearly. But like any sophisticated device, they work best when used correctly. Whether you've just been fitted for the first time or are helping a family member get started, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Step 1 — Inserting your hearing aid correctly
Proper insertion is the single most important skill to master. A poorly inserted hearing aid will whistle, feel uncomfortable, and underperform. The technique varies depending on your style of device.
Identify left and right
Most hearing aids are colour-coded: red for right, blue for left. Always check before inserting — wearing them in the wrong ears will cause discomfort and poor sound quality.
Hold the device correctly
For BTE and RIC styles, hold the body of the device between your thumb and forefinger. For ITE and IIC styles, hold the small removal handle or the body itself gently — never force it.
Guide the dome or mould into the ear canal
Gently reach over the top of your ear with your other hand to straighten the ear canal, then ease the dome or custom mould in with a slight rocking motion until it sits snugly. There should be no pain.
Hook the receiver over the ear (BTE/RIC)
Once the ear portion is seated, tuck the hook or tube over and behind the ear. The device body should sit comfortably behind the ear, not pressing against the skull.
Check for feedback
If you hear a whistling sound after insertion, the device is not seated properly. Remove it, reinsert, and cup your hand over your ear briefly — no whistling means a good seal.
First-timer tip
Practice inserting and removing your hearing aids in front of a mirror for the first week. Most people find the process becomes second nature within 7–10 days. Ask your audiologist at SoftHear to demonstrate the technique at your fitting appointment.
Step 2 — Building up wearing time gradually
Your brain has likely been deprived of certain sounds for months or years. Suddenly hearing everything at full amplification can be overwhelming and fatiguing. Most audiologists recommend a gradual wearing schedule, especially in the first few weeks.
Week 1 — quiet environments only
Wear your aids for 2–4 hours per day in calm settings: at home, in the garden, one-on-one conversations. This gives your auditory cortex time to recalibrate without being overwhelmed.
Week 2 — extend to moderate environments
Increase wearing time to 6–8 hours. Begin venturing into slightly busier environments: small cafés, family meals, short shopping trips. Notice which situations feel most challenging.
Week 3–4 — full-day wear
Aim to wear your aids from morning to night, removing them only for sleeping, bathing, and swimming. Report any persistent discomfort or sound quality concerns to your audiologist for fine-tuning.
Step 3 — Using programs and volume controls
Most modern hearing aids include multiple listening programs tailored to different environments — a quiet setting for one-on-one conversation, a speech-in-noise program for restaurants, a music program for concerts, and so on. These may be accessed via a button on the device itself, a remote control, or a smartphone app.
Many hearing aids also automatically detect your listening environment and switch programs without any action from you. Whether you control them manually or let the device do the work, understanding your programs helps you get the best experience in every situation. Your audiologist will walk you through your specific device's controls at your fitting.
Step 4 — Daily cleaning and care
Hearing aids are exposed to earwax, moisture, and sweat every day. A simple daily care routine dramatically extends device lifespan and maintains sound quality.
Wipe down daily
Use the soft dry cloth or brush provided by your audiologist to wipe the device body and remove any surface wax or moisture every evening.
Clean the dome or mould
Domes should be replaced every 2–4 weeks. Custom moulds can be wiped clean daily and washed weekly with mild soap and water — always dry completely before reattaching.
Clear wax filters
Most hearing aids use small wax guards that trap debris before it reaches the receiver. Check and replace these every 1–2 months or whenever sound becomes muffled.
Use a drying kit overnight
Place your hearing aids in a dry-aid kit or electronic dryer each night. This removes moisture that builds up during the day and is one of the best ways to prevent damage.
Manage batteries
For disposable battery aids, open the battery door at night to extend battery life. Keep spare batteries at room temperature — cold reduces their performance. Rechargeable aids simply go on the charger each evening.
Store safely
Always store hearing aids in their case when not in use — away from children, pets, heat sources, and moisture. Never leave them on a bathroom shelf or beside a sink.
Do's and don'ts at a glance
Do
- +Wear aids consistently every day
- +Clean devices every evening
- +Attend all follow-up appointments
- +Use a drying kit overnight
- +Tell your audiologist about any discomfort
- +Carry spare batteries or your charger
Don't
- –Wear aids in the shower or swimming
- –Expose devices to extreme heat or cold
- –Use hairspray or perfume while wearing aids
- –Insert hearing aids with wet hands
- –Try to repair the device yourself
- –Sleep wearing your hearing aids
Step 5 — Troubleshooting common problems
Whistling or feedback
Usually caused by a poor fit. Reinsert the device. If whistling continues, the dome may need replacing or the device needs to be re-fitted. Earwax buildup in the canal can also cause feedback — check with your audiologist.
Muffled or weak sound
Most commonly a blocked wax filter. Replace the wax guard. If the problem persists, the microphone inlet may be blocked — use the cleaning brush, or bring the device in for a service.
Device not turning on
Check the battery — replace or recharge as needed. Ensure the battery door is fully closed. For rechargeable devices, check that the charger contacts are clean and the device was seated correctly overnight.
Discomfort or soreness
Some initial soreness is normal in the first week. If pain persists beyond two weeks, or if you notice redness or skin irritation, return to your hearing aids clinic. The mould or dome may need adjustment.
Bluetooth or app connection issues
Toggle Bluetooth off and on again on your phone. Re-pair the device following the manufacturer's instructions. If problems persist, your audiologist or the manufacturer's support line can assist remotely in many cases.
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