Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s take a look at some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is recommended. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. 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 prime working order.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially enhanced by using these few basic tips. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common pitfalls:
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you take them out.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
Hearing aid care tools
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning techniques. 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.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any debris.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning properly.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Utilize a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax buildup not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these issues.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
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 proper maintenance.