Signs Your Ears Or Hearing Device May Have Mold

Moisture, body heat, and the enclosed space around the ear can sometimes allow mold and other microbes to grow on the skin or on a hearing device. When this happens, people may notice new discomfort, changes in how their device looks or smells, or even shifts in how well they hear. Recognizing these signs early and knowing how to clean a device correctly can reduce irritation and help keep the ear healthier.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

Hearing aid cleaning: why it matters

Regular hearing aid cleaning is essential because ears naturally produce wax, oil, and sweat. These substances can trap moisture and debris on the surface of the device. Over time, this buildup can look discolored or spotty and may create an environment where mold or bacteria can develop. A dirty device can also block microphones or receivers, causing sounds to become muffled or distorted.

Good cleaning habits usually focus on removing surface debris each day and doing a more detailed clean several times a week. This not only reduces the chances of mold growth but also helps prevent skin irritation where the device touches the ear. If a device begins to smell musty, looks discolored, or leaves the ear feeling itchy or sore, it may need more thorough cleaning or professional attention.

How often should a hearing aid be cleaned?

Most people benefit from light hearing aid cleaning every day, especially at night when the devices are removed. Wiping the outer surfaces with a soft, dry cloth can remove oil, sweat, and dust. Some users also brush sound ports gently with a small cleaning tool to keep openings clear.

More detailed cleaning, such as checking wax guards, domes, and tubing, is often done several times a week. For people who sweat a lot, live in humid climates, or have heavy earwax, more frequent attention may be helpful. If there is visible residue that keeps coming back quickly, or if the device looks damp for long periods, this can be a warning sign that moisture control is not adequate and that mold growth could become a problem.

How to remove wax from hearing aid domes?

Hearing aid domes sit inside the ear canal and can easily collect wax. To remove wax from hearing aid domes, begin by detaching the dome from the device if the design allows it. Once removed, gently wipe the dome with a soft, dry cloth or a manufacturer approved cleaning wipe. A tiny brush or pick supplied with the device can help dislodge dried wax from small ridges.

Avoid soaking domes in water or harsh chemicals, as this can damage the material or affect how the dome fits the ear. If wax is deeply embedded or the dome appears cracked, discolored, or misshapen, replacement is usually safer than aggressive cleaning. Domes that repeatedly appear stained, spotty, or have a persistent musty odor might indicate mold, and it is wise to ask a hearing care professional to examine both the domes and the ears.

How do you remove ear mold from a hearing aid?

Some behind the ear devices use a custom ear mold that fits in the outer ear or ear canal. If there are concerns about mold growth on this piece, it is important to separate normal staining from signs of contamination. Spots that look fuzzy, patchy, or appear in shades of green, black, or dark brown, especially along moist edges or vents, can be suspicious for mold.

To clean a removable ear mold, it is often possible to detach it from the tubing, then wash it with mild soapy water, following manufacturer or clinic instructions. After rinsing, it must dry completely before being reattached. The hearing aid electronics should never be submerged in water. If growth or odor persists even after careful cleaning, or if the mold material becomes brittle or permanently discolored, a professional cleaning or remade ear mold may be needed. When there is any sign of possible infection, a medical evaluation is important.

What are the symptoms of mold in the ear?

Mold or fungal overgrowth in or around the ear can cause a range of symptoms. People may notice itching deep in the canal, a feeling of fullness, or mild to moderate discomfort. There may be flaky skin, peeling, or discharge that looks white, gray, or even dark. A musty or unpleasant odor from the ear or from the device after use can also be a warning sign.

Some individuals experience increased sensitivity when inserting or removing a device, or their hearing may seem more muffled than usual if debris or swelling blocks the canal. In more pronounced cases, pain, redness, or visible spots on the ear canal skin may occur. Any sudden increase in pain, discharge, or hearing changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, as these symptoms can also be related to bacterial infections or other conditions.

Maintaining clean, dry hearing devices and paying attention to early changes in comfort, appearance, or smell can help reduce the risk of mold affecting the ears or equipment. Working with a hearing care specialist and, when needed, a medical professional supports both safer device use and healthier ears over the long term.