How to Recycle Hearing Aids
Electronic hearing amplification devices containing sophisticated miniaturized electronics, precious metals, and specialized batteries. Modern hearing aids contain gold, silver, and rare earth elements worth $5-50+ per device in recovered materials. However, refurbished hearing aids provide far greater value when donated to hearing-impaired individuals who cannot afford new devices costing $1000-6000 per pair.
- 1Clean thoroughly with hearing aid cleaning tools and solutions
- 2Remove batteries and store separately for recycling
- 3Test functionality if possible (basic sound amplification)
- 4Include original packaging, cases, and accessories if available
- 5Document model numbers and serial numbers for matching programs
- 6Package carefully in protective cases to prevent damage
- 7Include cleaning tools and extra accessories
- Lions Club International hearing aid recycling programs
- Audiology clinics and hearing centers
- Hearing aid manufacturers with take-back programs
- International hearing aid donation programs
- Veterans organizations supporting hearing-impaired veterans
- Electronics recyclers for non-functional units only
Hearing aids have exceptional donation value and should always be prioritized for reuse over recycling. Many programs refurbish donated hearing aids and provide them free to low-income individuals. Some audiologists accept trade-ins. Remove personal ear molds before donation - these cannot be reused due to hygiene and fit requirements.
Hearing aid donation can provide hearing restoration for 3-8 years, dramatically improving quality of life while preventing disposal of sophisticated electronics. Manufacturing a new hearing aid requires rare earth mining and precision manufacturing equivalent to 10-20 pounds of raw materials. Electronic recycling recovers gold and other precious metals but destroys the assistive technology value.
- Trade-in programs through hearing aid retailers
- Upgrade programs for newer technology
- Insurance replacement programs
- Repair services to extend device life
Accepted
- Digital and analog hearing aids of all types
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
- In-the-ear (ITE) and in-the-canal (ITC) models
- Completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids
- Hearing aid accessories and cleaning kits
- Cochlear implant external processors
Not Accepted
- Custom ear molds (must be removed)
- Severely damaged or corroded hearing aids
- Hearing aids with cracked cases exposing electronics
- Obsolete models that cannot be refurbished
Estimated value: $50-500+ donation value per pair; $5-50 in recovered precious metals
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Zinc-air or lithium hearing aid batteries
- Small amounts of heavy metals in electronics
- Rare earth magnets in speakers
Can I donate hearing aids that are several years old?
Yes! Even older hearing aids can be refurbished and provide significant benefit. Many recipients have no access to hearing assistance otherwise, making any functional hearing aid valuable.
What should I do with the custom ear pieces?
Remove and discard custom ear molds - they cannot be reused due to hygiene and individual fit requirements. Focus donation on the electronic hearing aid components.
How much are hearing aids worth for precious metal recovery?
$5-50 per device depending on age and technology level. However, the assistive value when donated ($50-500+) is typically much higher than recycling value.
Can broken hearing aids still be donated?
Possibly - many refurbishment programs can repair common issues like broken cases or worn components. Contact donation programs to assess repairability before recycling.