How to Insert, Remove and Care for Your Custom Earmolds

Quick tip: Keep this guide available while you practice inserting and removing your new earmolds. Proper technique usually becomes easier with repetition. 

Introduction 

Custom earmolds are made to fit the unique shape of your ears. Whether you use them for hearing protection, custom earphones or another compatible application, proper insertion, removal and care can help you get a comfortable fit and keep your earmolds in good condition. 

If your earmolds are new, it can take a little practice to get comfortable putting them in and taking them out. Use this guide as a simple reference for identifying, inserting, removing, cleaning and storing your custom earmolds. 

Before You Start: Identify Left and Right 

Check the color marker on your earmolds before inserting them. A red marker indicates the right ear. A blue marker, if present, indicates the left ear. 

How to Insert Your Custom Earmolds 

1. Position the earmold 

Place the canal portion of the earmold into your ear with the top of the earmold facing forward. 

2. Rotate and push 

Gently rotate the earmold backward while simultaneously pushing it into your ear. 

3. Tuck and seal 

Tuck the top of the earmold underneath the helix pocket of your ear. Gently wiggle the canal portion until the earmold is comfortably seated and has formed a secure seal. 

Using Lubricant, If Needed 

If insertion is difficult, you may use a water-based or earmold lubricant. Apply only a light coating directly to the earmold. Do not block the canal vents with lubricant. 

New Earmolds: Allow Time to Adjust 

New earmolds may take some getting used to. Allow approximately two weeks for your ears to adjust. During this break-in period, lubricant may make insertion easier and help reduce discomfort.

How to Remove Your Custom Earmolds 

1. Release the top 

Gently pop the top portion of the earmold out of the helix pocket of your ear. 

2. Rotate forward 

Rotate the earmold forward toward your nose to help ease it out of the ear canal. 

3. Hold the earmold itself 

Do not pull on the cord, whether it is detachable or permanent. Always remove the earmold by holding the body of the mold itself. 

How to Clean and Care for Your Earmolds 

Regular care helps keep wax and debris from building up on your earmolds. 

• Wipe the earmold with a damp cloth or sterile wipe. 

• After each use, visually inspect the sound bore and vents for wax or debris. 

• Use the supplied wax-pick cleaning tool, or a clean, dry toothbrush, to gently remove buildup. • When cleaning the sound bore or vent, keep it facing downward. 

Important: Do not submerge electronic or filtered earmolds in water, soap or cleaning solutions. Submerging them can damage internal filters or electronics. 

How to Store Your Earmolds 

Store your earmolds in the case or pouch provided when they are not in use. If your earmolds have wires or cords, make sure they are safely tucked inside before closing the case. 

Using Custom Earphones or In-Ear Monitors 

If your earmolds are used with custom earphones or in-ear monitors, turn the volume down before inserting them. Once they are in place, slowly increase the volume to a comfortable listening level. Listening at high volumes can permanently damage your hearing. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Pulling the earmold out by its cord. 

• Blocking the canal vents with lubricant. 

• Submerging electronic or filtered earmolds in water or cleaning solution. 

• Forgetting to check the sound bore and vents for wax or debris after use. 

• Turning up custom earphones or in-ear monitors before inserting them. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I know which earmold goes in which ear? 

Red indicates the right ear. A blue marker, if present, indicates the left ear.

Can I use lubricant to insert my earmolds? 

Yes. A light coating of water-based or earmold lubricant may be used if needed. Avoid blocking the canal vents. 

How long does it take to get used to new custom earmolds? 

Allow approximately two weeks for your ears to adjust to new earmolds. 

How should I clean my custom earmolds? 

Wipe them with a damp cloth or sterile wipe and inspect the sound bore and vents for buildup. A wax pick or clean, dry toothbrush can be used gently to remove debris. 

Can I put my earmolds in water? 

Electronic or filtered earmolds should not be submerged in water, soap or cleaning solutions because this can damage their internal filters or electronics. 

Need Help With Your Custom Earmolds? 

Clear Health Group provides custom earmold services for individuals, students, workplaces and organizations across British Columbia. If you have questions about using or caring for your custom earmolds, contact the Clear Health Group team for assistance. 

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