Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can considerably extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a professional is advised every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Basic care tips for daily use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Be sure to take them out before showering, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax buildup.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any earwax or debris 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.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries out.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
Effective hygiene can help prevent infections
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these problems.
Make 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 proper maintenance.