How to Store Hearing Aids Safely at Home and While Traveling

How Should You Store Hearing Aids?

Most hearing aid problems — distorted sound, physical damage, shortened battery life — do not happen during use. They happen when the device is sitting on a nightstand, left in a bathroom cabinet, or forgotten in a pocket. A few consistent storage habits go a long way toward keeping a hearing aid in good working condition.

The core principles are the same for CIC (completely-in-canal) and BTE (behind-the-ear) styles: keep the device dry, away from heat and direct sunlight, out of reach of children and pets, and in a stable location where it will not fall or be accidentally discarded.

Everyday Storage at Home

When you are not wearing your hearing aid, store it in its case in a cool, dry location. A bedroom drawer or bedside table in a climate-controlled room works well. Avoid the bathroom — ambient humidity from daily showers raises moisture levels even when you are not actively using water near the device.

Keep the storage location consistent. Hearing aids are small and easy to misplace, particularly CIC models. Placing the case next to something you use every day — glasses, a phone charger, a water glass — helps build a reliable habit.

Keep hearing aids away from children and pets. Small devices can be a choking hazard, and pets may chew or damage them.

How to Store Rechargeable Hearing Aids Overnight

For rechargeable hearing aids, the charging case is the standard overnight storage solution. Place the device in its matching charging case each night. This keeps it charged, protected, and in a consistent location.

Some charging cases include desiccant or drying features — check your product documentation to confirm whether your specific case has this function. Do not assume all charging cases provide active moisture removal.

If you use a separate hearing aid dehumidifier or drying box, check whether it is compatible with your device before use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.

Moisture, Heat, and Direct Sunlight

Moisture is the most common cause of hearing aid damage. Humidity, sweat, and condensation can corrode contacts, damage the microphone and receiver, and cause intermittent sound or complete failure. Store hearing aids away from sources of moisture and humidity.

Heat is equally damaging. Avoid storing hearing aids in a car, near a window with direct sunlight, on top of heat-generating electronics, or in any enclosed space that can overheat. High temperatures can warp the casing, degrade the battery, and damage internal components.

Do not attempt to dry a wet hearing aid using a hair dryer, microwave, oven, or direct sunlight. If a device gets wet, see our water and moisture guide for appropriate steps.

Storing CIC vs. BTE Hearing Aids

CIC hearing aids (such as the M602) are small and easy to misplace. Always use the provided case when the device is not in use — not just when traveling. CIC devices are small enough to be accidentally discarded with tissues or wrappers. Check the area before throwing anything away near your storage spot.

BTE hearing aids (such as the M802 or M905) are larger and easier to handle. If your BTE has a removable ear tip or dome, you can detach it for cleaning before storage. Avoid wrapping tubing tightly around the device, as this can cause kinks over time. Store the device in its case rather than loose on a surface where it could fall.

Long-Term Storage

If you will not be using your hearing aid for an extended period, consult the product documentation for guidance on battery and charging management during storage. Instructions vary by model, particularly for devices with built-in rechargeable batteries. Do not apply a single rule to all lithium battery devices without checking the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Store the device in its case in a cool, dry location away from direct light. Check on it periodically and follow any recharging guidance in the manual to maintain battery health.

Traveling With Hearing Aids

Travel introduces additional storage challenges: temperature extremes, humidity changes, and the risk of loss or damage in transit.

• Always carry your hearing aid in your carry-on bag. Do not pack it in checked luggage, where temperature and pressure changes in cargo holds can damage electronics.
• Keep the device in its hard case during transit to protect it from impact.
• Bring the charging cable or any accessories you need. A portable battery pack can be useful if you will not have reliable access to power.
• If you use a drying accessory at home, consider a travel-sized option for longer trips.
• Hearing aids are permitted through airport security. You do not need to remove them, though you may be asked about the device.

Common Storage Mistakes

• Leaving the device on a bathroom counter or shelf where steam and humidity accumulate
• Storing in a car, particularly in summer when interior temperatures can become extreme
• Placing the device loose in a bag or pocket where it can be damaged by contact with keys, coins, or other objects
• Leaving it within reach of children or pets
• Using heat sources to dry a wet device
• Storing near a sink or in any location where it could be knocked into water

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave my hearing aid in its charging case all day?

Yes, storing the device in its charging case when not in use is fine. The case protects the device and keeps it charged. Avoid leaving it in a hot or humid environment even while in the case.

Do I need a separate dehumidifier if I have a charging case?

Not necessarily. Check whether your charging case includes a drying or desiccant function. If it does not, and you are in a humid climate or notice moisture-related issues, a separate hearing aid dehumidifier may be worth considering. Confirm compatibility with your device before use.

How should I store my hearing aid when I go to the beach or pool?

Keep the device in its case, away from water, sand, and direct sunlight. Do not leave it in a bag that may be exposed to splashing or high heat. For more on hearing aids and water exposure, see our water guide.

What should I do if my hearing aid gets wet during storage?

Remove it from the wet environment immediately, gently pat the exterior dry with a soft cloth, and follow the steps in our water and moisture guide. Do not use heat to dry it.

The Bottom Line

Consistent storage habits protect your hearing aid from the most common causes of damage: moisture, heat, physical impact, and accidental loss. Store the device in its case in a cool, dry location each time you remove it, keep it away from children and pets, and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your specific model.

For a full daily and weekly care routine, see our maintenance guide. For information on device lifespan and what affects it, see our device lifespan guide. For battery-specific guidance, see our battery guide.