How to Insert and Remove a Hearing Aid: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learning how to insert and remove a hearing aid is an important part of becoming comfortable with your device. For many people, the first few days of wearing hearing aids involve a bit of practice as they learn how the device should sit, feel, and sound.
It is common to have questions when you first start wearing hearing aids. You may wonder: Is my hearing aid sitting correctly? Should the dome go deeper into my ear? Why does my hearing aid feel uncomfortable?
The good news is that inserting and removing a hearing aid usually becomes quick and easy once it becomes part of your daily routine. The exact process depends on the type of hearing aid you wear. Behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), and in-the-ear styles each have slightly different insertion techniques, so it is important to follow the instructions provided for your specific device.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to insert different types of hearing aids, how to tell if your device is positioned correctly, and what to do if something does not feel right.
Key Takeaways
- Learning how to insert and remove your hearing aid correctly can improve comfort, sound quality, and overall performance.
- The way you insert your hearing aid depends on the style of device you wear.
- A hearing aid should feel secure and comfortable without causing pressure, pain, or irritation.
- Hearing aid domes should sit properly in the ear canal but should never feel forced or pushed too far.
- Frequent whistling, discomfort, or unclear sound may mean your hearing aid needs an adjustment.
- Your hearing care professional can help ensure your device fits properly and is programmed for your hearing needs.
In this article
- What Is the Best Way to Insert a Hearing Aid?
- How To Insert Different Types of Hearing Aids
- How Far Should the Hearing Aid Dome Sit in Your Ear?
- How Do I Know If My Hearing Aid Is Sitting Properly?
- How Do You Remove a Hearing Aid?
- Common Mistakes When Inserting Hearing Aids
- How Long Does It Take to Get Used to Hearing Aids?
- What Should I Do If My Hearing Aid Does Not Feel Right?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Next Steps
What Is the Best Way to Insert a Hearing Aid?
The best way to insert a hearing aid is to follow the technique recommended for your specific device. Since hearing aids come in different styles and designs, the steps can vary depending on whether you wear a behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), in-the-ear (ITE), or completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid. Before inserting your hearing aid:
- Make Sure Your Hearing Aid Is Ready to Use – For rechargeable hearing aids, remove your devices from the charger. For battery-powered hearing aids, make sure the batteries are inserted correctly and the device is turned on
- Hold Your Hearing Aid Correctly – Hold your hearing aid by the main body or the part designed to be handled. Avoid pulling on thin wires, tubing, or small components, as these parts can become damaged over time
- Insert the Hearing Aid Gently – Your hearing aid should slide into place comfortably. Avoid pushing or forcing the device deeper into your ear. A properly fitted hearing aid should feel secure without causing discomfort
- Check the Fit – Once inserted, your hearing aid should stay in place while you move, talk, and go about your day. If it feels loose, uncomfortable, or sounds different than usual, it may need an adjustment
How to Insert Different Types of Hearing Aids
How to Insert a Behind-the-Ear (BTE) or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aid
Behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids have a component that sits behind the ear and a small receiver, dome, or earmold that sits inside the ear canal. To insert a BTE or RIC hearing aid:
- Place the hearing aid body behind your ear.
- Hold the receiver wire, tubing, or earmold gently.
- Place the dome or earmold into your ear canal.
- If your device has a retention wire, position it comfortably in the bowl of your ear.
- Check that the hearing aid feels secure.
The dome or earmold should sit comfortably without feeling like it is pressing too deeply into your ear.
How to Insert an In-the-Ear (ITE), CIC, or IIC Hearing Aid
In-the-ear (ITE), completely-in-canal (CIC), and invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aids sit inside the ear, with some models custom-made to the shape of your ear and others designed as instant-fit options. To insert an ITE, CIC, or IIC hearing aid:
- Hold the hearing aid with the removal handle or grip area facing outward.
- Gently place the device into your ear canal or outer ear, depending on the style.
- Rotate slightly if needed until it sits comfortably in the correct position.
- Make sure the hearing aid feels secure without feeling tight or causing pressure.
Because these hearing aids sit inside the ear, proper positioning is important for both comfort and sound quality. If your hearing aid feels uncomfortable, does not stay in place, or sounds different than expected, your hearing care professional can check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
Read this guide to get a more in depth look at how to properly insert your hearing aid based on the style you’re wearing.
Need Help With Your Hearing Aids?
We’re here to help with fit, comfort, and everyday hearing aid use.
How Far Should a Hearing Aid Dome Sit in Your Ear?
A common question from new hearing aid users is whether their dome should sit deep inside the ear canal. The answer depends on your ear shape, the size of the dome, and your hearing needs. A properly fitted dome should:
- Sit securely in your ear canal
- Feel comfortable throughout the day
- Stay in place when you move or talk
- Allow your hearing aid to provide clear sound
A dome should not feel like it is being pushed too far into your ear. If you feel pressure, discomfort, or soreness, the dome size or style may not be the right fit. An incorrectly fitted dome can contribute to issues such as:
- Hearing aid feedback or whistling
- A plugged or blocked feeling
- Your own voice sounding unusually loud
- Reduced sound quality
- The hearing aid moving out of place
If you are unsure whether your dome is fitting correctly, your clinician can help determine whether a different size, receiver length, or earmold would work better.
How Do I Know If My Hearing Aid Is Sitting Properly?
A properly positioned hearing aid should feel comfortable, secure, and provide clear sound. Here are some signs your hearing aid is sitting correctly:
- It Feels Comfortable – Your hearing aid should stay in place without causing pain, pressure, or irritation. While it may feel unfamiliar at first, it should not feel uncomfortable
- Sounds Are Clear – Your hearing aid should make conversations easier to follow and help you hear everyday sounds more clearly
- There Is Minimal Whistling – Occasional feedback can happen, especially if something changes with the fit. However, frequent whistling may mean the device is not sitting correctly or needs adjustment
- Your Own Voice Sounds More Natural – Some people notice their voice sounds louder or different when they first start wearing hearing aids. This is common and usually improves as your brain adjusts to hearing sounds differently again
- The Hearing Aid Stays in Place – Your hearing aid should remain secure when you walk, talk, or move your head
Not Sure If Your Hearing Aid Fits Properly?
If your hearing aid feels uncomfortable, moves out of place, or you’re experiencing frequent whistling, our team can help check the fit and make adjustments.
How Do You Remove a Hearing Aid?
Removing your hearing aid carefully helps protect the device and prevents damage to small components.
Removing a Behind-the-Ear (BTE) or Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aid
- Hold the hearing aid behind your ear.
- Gently remove the dome, receiver, or earmold from your ear canal.
- Remove the hearing aid from behind your ear.
Avoid pulling on the thin wire or tubing, as this can damage the connection between components.
Removing an In-the-Ear (ITE), CIC, or IIC Hearing Aid
- Locate the removal handle or grip area.
- Gently pull the hearing aid outward.
- Avoid twisting or forcing the device.
If your hearing aid feels stuck, do not force it. Your hearing care professional can show you the safest way to remove your specific device.
Common Mistakes When Inserting Hearing Aids
Even small changes in how you insert your hearing aids can affect comfort and sound quality.
- Pushing the Hearing Aid Too Far into the Ear – A hearing aid should sit securely but forcing it deeper into the ear can cause discomfort
- Using the Wrong Dome Size – A dome that is too large or too small may affect comfort, sound quality, and how well the hearing aid stays in place
- Putting the Hearing Aid on the Wrong Ear – Many hearing aids are designed specifically for the left and right ear. Check the markings on your device to ensure you are inserting them correctly
- Not Cleaning Your Hearing Aid Regularly – Wax and debris can affect sound quality and make your hearing aids more difficult to insert
- Assuming Discomfort Is Normal – While hearing aids may feel unfamiliar at first, ongoing discomfort is not something you need to simply tolerate. Your hearing care professional can often make small adjustments that significantly improve comfort
How Long Does It Take to Get Comfortable with Hearing Aids?
For many people, inserting and removing hearing aids feels awkward at first. Your fingers are learning a new movement, and your ears are adjusting to a device that was not there before.
With regular practice, most people find the process becomes much easier within a few days or weeks. Your hearing care professional can also demonstrate the best technique for your specific hearing aids and answer any questions during your fitting appointments.
Read our guide on what to expect in your first 30 days of wearing hearing aids for a more in-depth look.
Get More Comfortable With Your Hearing Aids
From fit and insertion to cleaning and everyday care, we’re here to help you feel confident using your hearing aids.
What Should I Do If My Hearing Aid Does Not Feel Right?
If your hearing aid feels uncomfortable, sounds unclear, or does not stay in place, it may need an adjustment. Common signs your hearing aid may need attention include:
- Your hearing aid keeps falling out
- You experience frequent whistling
- Sounds feel too loud or unnatural
- Your ear becomes sore after wearing it
- The hearing aid feels blocked or uncomfortable
A hearing care professional can check the fit, adjust settings, replace components such as domes or receivers, and make sure your hearing aid is working properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my hearing aid keep falling out?
Your hearing aid may fall out if the dome or earmold is not the correct size, the device is not positioned properly, or the fit has changed over time. A hearing care professional can determine whether an adjustment is needed.
Why is my hearing aid whistling after I put it in?
Whistling, also called feedback, can happen when sound escapes from the ear and returns to the hearing aid microphone. Poor fit, earwax buildup, or changes to the device may contribute to feedback.
Should my hearing aid feel uncomfortable at first?
It is normal for hearing aids to feel unfamiliar when you first start wearing them. However, they should not cause pain or ongoing discomfort. If something does not feel right, your hearing care professional can help.
How often should I clean my hearing aid?
Cleaning your hearing aid daily helps maintain sound quality and performance. Your clinician can recommend the best cleaning routine based on your device style.
Can I sleep while wearing my hearing aids?
Most people remove their hearing aids before sleeping to allow the devices to rest and to protect them from moisture buildup. Follow your hearing care professional’s recommendations for your specific hearing aids.
Next Steps
Learning how to insert and remove your hearing aid is an important part of getting comfortable with your device. While it may feel unfamiliar at first, most people find that it quickly becomes part of their daily routine.
If your hearing aid does not feel comfortable, sounds unclear, or you are unsure whether it is fitting correctly, your hearing care professional can help. Small adjustments can often make a big difference in comfort and performance. A properly fitted hearing aid should help you hear more clearly, feel more confident in conversations, and stay connected to the people and activities that matter most.
References:
Oticon (n.d.). How to put on and remove your hearing aids. https://www.oticon.com/support/life-with-a-hearing-aid/basic-hearing-aid-use/how-to-put-on-and-remove-hearing-aids
Biology Insights (26, April 2026). How Should Hearing Aid Domes Fit in Your Ear? https://biologyinsights.com/how-should-hearing-aid-domes-fit-in-your-ear/
