For individuals who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better hearing and general quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be substantially lengthened 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.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be enhanced by doing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
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 important alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a specialist is advised every six months or so. This helps to identify any issues your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working order.
Basic everyday care tips
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by using these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by utilizing these tips:
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when not in use.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always wash your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning practices. Two of the primary types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are precise cleaning instructions for each type.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully remove any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any accumulation. Utilize a tubing blower to remove 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 clear of debris.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries out.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe off any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these issues.
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 serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.