Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can significantly increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
In addition to your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is recommended. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are advised 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 diagnose any potential issues early.
Basic daily care tips
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by employing these tips:
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- 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.
- 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.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning strategies. Two of the primary types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific 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 clear away any debris.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
- 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: Release any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Effective hygiene can help prevent infections
Outside of 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 issues can typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.