Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and enhance your 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 extended by regular 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.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. 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 twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any issues your device may have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Basic daily care tips
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common obstacles by employing these tips:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you take them out.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by keeping your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Consider picking up a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance practices.
Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. 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
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax 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 eliminate any residue.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries out.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any wax or dirt, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
Preventing ear infections with effective hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these problems.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to talk about any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.