Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be considerably extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s take a look at some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is suggested. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Basic daily care tips
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common pitfalls:
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Be sure to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will require the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Consider picking up a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are tailored cleaning guidelines for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries out.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any buildup. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the risk of these problems.
Schedule an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
Contact us right away if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk about any concerns you may have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.