Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and enhance your quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be significantly 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.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a specialist is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially increased by using these few basic tips. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be certain to take them out before showering, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax buildup.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately removing earwax from small crevices.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris trapped in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning practices. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific cleaning instructions for each type.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- 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.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Utilize a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also cause discomfort and infection. These problems can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us today if you would like to set up a consultation to discuss any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.
