What are earmolds for hearing aids?
Earmolds are custom-fitted pieces that sit inside the ear canal or outer ear and connect to a hearing aid. Their main purpose is to deliver sound from the hearing aid directly into the ear while ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. Properly fitted earmolds improve sound quality, reduce feedback or whistling, and help keep the hearing aid in place throughout daily activities. They are especially important for individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss, as they can enhance amplification and prevent sound leakage.
Hearing aid molds vs domes
Earmolds are custom-made to fit the exact shape of your ear canal and are typically used for moderate to severe hearing loss. They offer excellent sound isolation, reduce feedback, and can be made from materials like silicone, acrylic, or vinyl. Domes, on the other hand, are small, pre-shaped tips that fit onto the end of the hearing aid’s receiver and sit loosely in the ear canal. Domes are generally preferred for mild to moderate hearing loss because they provide a more natural sound, allow some airflow, and are easier to insert and replace. Choosing between earmolds and domes depends on hearing loss level, comfort preferences, and lifestyle, and an audiologist can help determine the best option for each individual.
Types of hearing aid earmolds
An earmold for a hearing aid most commonly comes in silicone, acrylic, or soft vinyl, giving options for durability, comfort, and flexibility. They are always customized according to the size of your ear. This allows them to fit comfortably for a full day of hearing. You will also notice that they have small vents designed to let airflow in and out.
Hearing aid earmolds come in several types and styles designed to meet different hearing needs and preferences. Full-shell earmolds cover the entire outer ear and provide a secure fit with maximum sound isolation, making them ideal for more severe hearing loss. Half-shell or skeleton earmolds are lighter and less visible, fitting partially in the outer ear while still providing effective sound delivery.
Canal earmolds sit mainly inside the ear canal for a discreet, comfortable fit suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. Earmolds may also be vented, allowing airflow and a natural sound experience, or non-vented, which maximizes amplification and reduces feedback. The variety in styles and materials ensures that every user can find an earmold that balances comfort, fit, and performance.
Custom earmolds for hearing aids
Custom earmolds are specially designed to fit the unique shape of a person’s ear, providing a secure and comfortable fit for optimal hearing aid performance. One of the advantages of molded hearing aids is that they can be precisely shaped to reduce feedback, prevent sound leakage, and ensure consistent amplification. Users can choose from a variety of hearing aid mold colors, allowing for discreet wear or a personalized look.
The benefits of custom earmolds extend beyond aesthetics—they improve comfort, enhance sound quality, and can be tailored for different lifestyles or levels of hearing loss. For those interested in a hands-on approach, there are ways to make your own hearing aid mold with guidance from audiologists. Overall, custom earmolds offer a combination of comfort, effectiveness, and personalization that standard tips cannot match.
Which hearing aids use earmolds?
Earmolds are commonly used with behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, which sit behind the ear and deliver sound through a tube into the ear canal. They are also compatible with some receiver-in-canal (RIC) and open-fit models, especially for individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss who need a secure fit and optimal sound amplification. Earmolds provide a custom fit that helps prevent feedback, ensures consistent sound delivery, and keeps the hearing aid comfortably in place throughout daily activities.
Getting fitted for ear moulds
The custom fitting is why reputable manufacturers will not allow their clients to purchase their hearing aids online and have them delivered to their door. Every new hearing aid requires a full hearing test and a custom fit.
During your consultation, you will practice how to put in hearing aids, and your ears will be measured for your new moulds.
Inspection
The first step is a full inspection of your ear. Everyone’s ear is different, therefore your hearing professional needs to perform an inspection. This will involve carefully inspecting the bowl of the ear and the ear canal.
This part of the process is completely painless and takes no more than a few minutes for an experienced professional to perform.
Impression
Hearing aid moulds in the US need to be manufactured according to the precise size of your ear and canal to avoid many of the most common hearing aid problems.
Much like your dentist will take an impression of your teeth when fitting a mouthguard, hearing aid professionals do the same here.
They will take a soft material and apply it to your ear. This casting of the ear bowl and canal will be manipulated until a comfortable fit is achieved. After a successful impression, your hearing aid professional will send the impression away to the manufacturer.
Depending on which hearing aid brand you chose, it could take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for you to receive your custom moulds.
Hearing aid earmold maintenance
How to clean
Keeping hearing aid earmolds clean is essential for comfort, hygiene, and optimal sound performance. Follow these steps:
- Remove the earmold from the hearing aid before cleaning.
- Wipe the surface gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and earwax.
- Wash with warm, soapy water for deeper cleaning if the earmold is non-electronic. Make sure it is completely dry before reattaching.
- Avoid alcohol or harsh chemicals, which can damage the material.
- Clear tubing and vents using small tools like wax picks or brushes to prevent blockages.
Clean regularly, ideally once a day for active users, to maintain hygiene and ensure consistent sound quality.
How to remove
Removing a hearing aid earmold safely helps prevent damage to both the device and your ear. Follow these steps:
- Wash your hands before handling the hearing aid and earmold to ensure cleanliness.
- Gently grasp the earmold, not the tubing or hearing aid itself, to avoid bending or breaking parts.
- Twist slightly while pulling the earmold out of the ear canal; avoid sudden or forceful movements.
- For BTE or RIC devices, hold the main hearing aid behind the ear while removing the earmold to prevent strain on the connection tube or wire.
- Check the earmold for debris or moisture before storing it in a safe, dry place.
Proper removal ensures the earmold maintains its shape, stays comfortable for future use, and prevents unnecessary wear or damage to your hearing aid.
How to replace
Replacing your hearing aid earmold regularly ensures a secure fit, optimal sound quality, and hygiene. Follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the hearing aid and earmold.
- Remove the old earmold gently by twisting and pulling it out of the ear canal.
- Inspect the hearing aid tubing or connection for any damage or debris before attaching the new earmold.
- Attach the new earmold by sliding it carefully onto the hearing aid tube or receiver. Ensure it is fully seated and secure.
- Test the fit by placing the hearing aid in your ear and checking for comfort and proper sound.
Schedule regular replacements according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or your audiologist’s guidance, usually every 6–12 months depending on wear and earwax buildup.
Cost of hearing aid earmolds
The cost of hearing aid earmolds varies depending on the type, material, and level of customization. Standard pre-made earmolds are usually the most affordable, while custom-molded earmolds tend to be more expensive due to the personalized fit and precision required. Prices typically range from $50 to $200 per pair, though high-end materials or specialty designs can cost more. Factors that influence the price include the material (silicone, acrylic, or soft vinyl), the style (full-shell, skeleton, or canal), and whether the earmold is vented or non-vented.
Troubleshooting common earmold problems
To maintain comfort and optimal performance, common earmold issues can be addressed with these steps:
- Feedback or whistling – Check the fit and clean the earmold and tubing to reduce noise.
- Discomfort or irritation – Adjust the size, shape, or material, preferably with an audiologist’s help.
- Blockages – Remove earwax or debris using soft brushes, wax picks, or cleaning tools; ensure tubing is dry.
- Cracks or wear – Replace damaged earmolds to maintain proper sound quality.
- Poor sound quality – Inspect for fit issues, damage, or blockages that may affect amplification.
Regular cleaning, inspection, and professional adjustments can prevent most problems and keep your hearing aid performing effectively.
With you on your journey to better hearing.
It's time to finally treat your hearing loss. Sign up for a free consultation with a licensed hearing care professional today to determine if you have hearing loss. It’s the start of your journey towards better hearing.
EarPros benefits:
- it's 100% risk free.
- best partner with more than 1.000 stores
