The Basic Steps for Inserting Your Hearing Aid
Putting in a hearing aid takes practice, but the process is the same each time. Start with clean, dry hands and good lighting — a bathroom mirror works well. Hold the hearing aid between your thumb and index finger, with the speaker (the narrow end) pointing toward your ear canal. Use your other hand to gently pull your upper ear back and up, which straightens the ear canal and makes insertion easier.
Slide the hearing aid into your ear slowly and steadily. You should feel it settle into place with a gentle click or snap. The device should sit snugly but not painfully. If it feels loose or uncomfortable, remove it, check that you are using the correct size dome or earmold, and try again. Once inserted, you may hear a beep or feel a slight vibration — this is normal and means the device is powered on.
The first few times you insert a hearing aid, it may feel strange or ticklish in your ear. This sensation usually fades within a few days as you get used to the device. If discomfort continues or the hearing aid does not stay in place, contact your hearing aid provider — the fit may need adjustment.
Key Takeaways
- Clean, dry hands and good lighting make insertion much easier and reduce the risk of dropping or damaging your hearing aid.
- Pulling your upper ear back and up straightens your ear canal so the device slides in smoothly without forcing.
- A properly inserted hearing aid should sit snugly and may produce a beep or vibration when powered on.
- Discomfort or a loose fit after several days of use means the dome size or earmold needs adjustment from your provider.
- Removing a hearing aid is usually simpler than insertion — gently pull your ear back and ease the device out with your fingernail or the removal tool provided.
Choosing the Right Dome or Earmold Size
Most behind-the-ear hearing aids come with interchangeable domes in small, medium, and large sizes. The dome is the soft tip that sits in your ear canal. Using the wrong size is the most common reason hearing aids feel uncomfortable or fall out. Your hearing aid provider should have fitted you with the correct size, but if you experience problems, you can swap domes yourself.
To change the dome, gently twist it counterclockwise while holding the hearing aid body steady. The old dome will come off. Slide the new dome onto the speaker tube and twist it clockwise until it clicks into place. Make sure the dome is fully seated — a loose dome will cause feedback (a whistling sound) and poor fit. If you are unsure which size to try, your provider can send you a replacement set or show you how to swap them during your next visit.
Removing Your Hearing Aid Safely
Removal is usually simpler than insertion. Pull your upper ear back and up again to straighten your ear canal. Use your fingernail or the small removal tool that came with your hearing aid to gently ease the device out. Do not yank or pull hard — let the device slide out naturally. If it feels stuck, stop and try again after a few minutes rather than forcing it.
Once removed, place your hearing aid on a clean, dry surface away from pets, children, and water. Never leave it in the bathroom while you shower or bathe, as moisture is the leading cause of hearing aid damage. Store it in its case or in a dry storage container overnight. If your hearing aid has a battery door, open it before storing to allow the battery to rest and the device to dry.
Troubleshooting Common Insertion Problems
If your hearing aid will not go in or feels painful, stop and check several things. First, make sure you are pulling your ear back and up — this step is straightforward to skip and makes insertion much harder. Second, inspect the dome for cracks, debris, or buildup. A damaged or dirty dome should be replaced. Third, confirm that the hearing aid is oriented correctly — the speaker should point into your ear canal, not to the side.
If the hearing aid slides in but when ready falls out, the dome size is likely too small. Try the next size up. If it goes in but feels loose and causes feedback, try the next size down. If you have tried all three sizes and still have problems, contact your provider — your ear canal shape may require a custom earmold instead of a standard dome.
Hearing aids can also be difficult to insert if your ear canal is very narrow, if you have arthritis or limited hand strength, or if you have never worn one before. Your provider can show you insertion techniques tailored to your situation, or recommend a hearing aid model with a larger, easier-to-handle body. Some people find it helpful to practice insertion and removal several times in a row during their first week of use.
Caring for Your Hearing Aid During Daily Use
Proper handling during the day keeps your hearing aid working well and extends its life. Avoid touching the microphone openings (usually on the back or side of the device) with your fingers, as oils from your skin can clog them. Wipe your hearing aid with a dry cloth if it gets damp from sweat or humidity. Never use water, alcohol, or cleaning solutions unless your provider specifically recommends them.
Remove your hearing aid before showering, bathing, swimming, or using a hair dryer. Even brief exposure to water can damage the internal electronics. If your hearing aid does get wet, turn it off when ready, open the battery door, and let it air-dry for at least 24 hours. Do not try to use it while wet. Some people use a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying case overnight to remove moisture.
When to Contact Your Hearing Aid Provider
Contact your provider if insertion remains difficult or painful after one week of daily use. They can check the fit, adjust the dome size, or modify the earmold. You should also reach out if the hearing aid falls out repeatedly, produces constant feedback, or causes your ear to itch or feel sore.
If you notice wax buildup in your ear canal, ask your provider how to clean it safely. Earwax can block the speaker and reduce sound quality. Your provider may recommend a wax removal tool or suggest you see your primary care doctor. Never insert anything into your ear canal yourself to remove wax, as you can damage your eardrum.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get used to putting in a hearing aid?
Most people become comfortable with insertion and removal within one to two weeks of daily practice. The first few times may feel awkward or take several minutes, but the process becomes automatic quickly. If you still struggle after two weeks, ask your provider for a demonstration or consider whether a different hearing aid style might be easier for you to handle.
Can I put my hearing aid in upside down or backwards?
Yes, and it will not work properly if you do. The speaker (narrow end) must point into your ear canal. If the hearing aid is reversed, you will hear little to no sound, or it may produce feedback. Check the orientation before inserting — your provider can mark the correct direction on your device if you find it confusing.
What should I do if I drop my hearing aid?
Pick it up when ready and inspect it for visible cracks or damage. If it looks intact, turn it off, open the battery door, and let it sit for a few hours before turning it back on. If it does not work after drying, or if you see cracks, contact your provider. Many hearing aids are covered by accidental damage insurance, though there may be a deductible.
Is it normal for my hearing aid to whistle when I put it in?
A brief whistle during insertion is usually normal and stops once the device is fully seated. If it continues after insertion, the dome may be too small, the device may not be inserted far enough, or earwax may be blocking the speaker. Try reinserting it, check the dome size, and clean your ear if needed. Persistent feedback means you should contact your provider.
Can someone else help me put in my hearing aid if I cannot do it myself?
Yes. A family member or caregiver can insert your hearing aid if you have limited hand strength or dexterity. They should follow the same steps — clean hands, good lighting, pulling your ear back and up, and sliding the device in gently. If you need regular help, ask your provider about hearing aid styles with larger bodies that are easier to grip, or about custom earmolds that may fit more securely.