Are All Hearing Aid Wax Traps the Same? A Comprehensive Guide

Changing hearing aid wax trap

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Contrary to common belief, all hearing aid wax traps are not the same. Each manufacturer typically has their unique wax trap design. In some cases, manufacturers may even offer two different wax trap options. The exception to this rule is the Cerustop wax trap, which is utilized by several leading manufacturers.

ManufacturerWax Trap
PhonakCerustop
UnitronCerustop
ResoundCerustop
WidexCerustop
StarkeyHear Clear
SigniaMinireciever Wax Guard
JabraCerustop
LexieProprietary
PhillipsProWax, Prowax Minifit
OticonProWax, NoWax
RextonMinireciever Wax Guard

Wax Traps: What Are They and Why Are They Important?

Wax traps, also known as wax guards or wax filters, are tiny components in a hearing aid that prevent earwax from entering and damaging the device. These components are crucial for maintaining the sound quality and longevity of the hearing aid. Therefore, understanding the specific wax trap used by your hearing aid manufacturer is vital. Use this comprehensive guide for how to change your wax traps.

Wax Traps by Manufacturer

In this section, we will explore the wax traps used by different manufacturers. Notably, each of these manufacturers has a unique design, barring the shared use of the Cerustop by a select few.

Phonak, Unitron, Resound, and Widex

Interestingly, these four manufacturers all utilize the Cerustop wax trap. The Cerustop is a small wax guard that is effective in preventing wax build-up. Despite coming from different manufacturers, the hearing aids from Phonak, Unitron, Resound, and Widex share this common component.

Starkey

Unlike the aforementioned manufacturers, Starkey uses its proprietary Hear Clear wax guards. These wax traps are meticulously designed to provide optimal protection against wax accumulation.

Signia

Signia employs its distinct wax traps known as the MiniReceiver Hearing aid Wax Guards Filter.

Jabra

Jabra is owned by Resound Hearing aids and thus uses the Cerustop wax trap.

Phillips

Phillips uses the ProWax wax trap. This wax trap is known for its reliable protection against wax intrusion, ensuring the device remains in prime working condition.

Oticon

Oticon uses its ProWax and Prowax Minifit (the smaller size) and less commonly the NoWax wax trap options. While both serve the essential function of preventing earwax accumulation, they differ slightly in their size but have the same application.

Rexton

Rexton employs the Check Wax system for its wax traps. These wax traps offer reliable protection and are easy to replace, ensuring minimal disruption in the user’s experience.

Conclusion

In summary, not all hearing aid wax traps are the same. Each manufacturer typically employs a unique wax trap design, with the exception of the shared use of Cerustop by Phonak, Unitron, Resound, and Widex. It’s crucial to understand the specific wax trap used by your hearing aid to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the device. Always consult your audiologist or the hearing aid manual for instructions on handling the wax trap specific to your device.

Jonathan Javid Au.D.

Jonathan Javid Au.D., a seasoned audiologist with an extensive background in the field of audiology. With over 11 years of invaluable clinical experience, Jonathan has dedicated his career to helping individuals enhance their hearing and improve their quality of life.

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