How to Store Your Hearing Aid Properly: Tips to Extend Its Life

Why Storage Matters More Than You Think

Most hearing aid problems — dead batteries, distorted sound, physical damage — don't happen during use. They happen when the device is sitting on a nightstand, forgotten in a pocket, or left in a bathroom cabinet.

Proper storage is one of the simplest and most overlooked ways to extend the life of your hearing aid. Whether you have a CIC (completely-in-canal) model like the RKEPIE M602 or a BTE (behind-the-ear) model like the M802, the same core principles apply.

The #1 Enemy: Moisture

Hearing aids contain sensitive electronics. Moisture — from humidity, sweat, or condensation — is the leading cause of hearing aid failure.

Here's what moisture does:

• Corrodes battery contacts
• Damages the microphone and receiver
• Causes intermittent sound or complete failure

What to do: Store your hearing aid in a dry, cool location. Avoid bathrooms, which have high humidity even when you're not showering. A bedroom drawer or bedside table in a climate-controlled room is ideal.

Use a Drying Case or Dehumidifier

A hearing aid drying case (also called a dehumidifier box) is a small container with desiccant material that absorbs moisture overnight. They cost $10–30 and can significantly extend the life of your device.

How to use one:

• Remove the battery (for non-rechargeable models) before placing the hearing aid inside
• Leave the battery door open to allow any trapped moisture to escape
• Place the hearing aid in the drying case overnight
• Replace the desiccant tablets every 2–4 weeks, or when the color indicator changes

For rechargeable models like the RKEPIE M802, simply place the device in its charging case overnight — many charging cases have built-in drying functions.

Keep It Away From Heat

Heat is almost as damaging as moisture. Never store your hearing aid:

• In a car (temperatures can exceed 140°F in summer)
• Near a window with direct sunlight
• On top of electronics that generate heat
• In a pocket close to your body for extended periods

High heat can warp the casing, damage the battery, and degrade the internal components.

Storing CIC Hearing Aids (Like the RKEPIE M602)

CIC hearing aids are small and easy to misplace. A few specific tips:

• Always use the storage case: The M602 comes with a small carrying case. Use it every time you remove the device — not just when traveling.
• Keep it visible: Place the case somewhere you'll see it, like next to your glasses or on your nightstand.
• Check before disposing: CIC devices are small enough to be accidentally thrown away with tissues or wrappers. Always check before discarding anything near your storage area.

Storing BTE Hearing Aids (Like the RKEPIE M802)

BTE hearing aids are larger and easier to handle, but have their own storage considerations:

• Detach the earmold or dome: If your BTE has a removable earmold, detach it for storage and clean it separately.
• Coil the tubing loosely: Don't wrap the tubing tightly around the device, as this can cause kinks over time.
• Store upright: Keeping the BTE upright (hook facing up) reduces stress on the tubing connection point.

Traveling With Your Hearing Aid

Travel introduces new storage challenges — temperature extremes, humidity changes, and the risk of loss or damage.

Tips for traveling:

• Always carry your hearing aid in your carry-on bag, never checked luggage (temperature and pressure changes in cargo holds can damage electronics)
• Bring a travel-sized drying kit
• Pack extra batteries or a portable charger
• Keep the device in its hard case during transit
• Declare it at security if asked — hearing aids are allowed through TSA without removal

When You're Not Using It for an Extended Period

If you won't be using your hearing aid for more than a few days:

• Remove the battery completely (for non-rechargeable models)
• Leave the battery door open
• Store in a drying case with fresh desiccant
• Keep in a cool, dry location away from direct light

Key Takeaways

• Moisture is the #1 cause of hearing aid damage — use a drying case nightly
• Avoid storing in bathrooms, cars, or anywhere with heat or humidity
• CIC models like the M602 need a dedicated case to prevent loss
• BTE models like the M802 should be stored upright with tubing uncoiled
• When traveling, always keep your hearing aid in carry-on luggage

A few simple storage habits can add years to the life of your hearing aid — and save you hundreds of dollars in repairs or replacements.