For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and total quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can considerably increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing 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
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The longevity of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be enhanced by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
In addition to your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is recommended. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a professional is advised every six months or so. This helps to detect any issues your device may have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic care tips for daily 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 hurdles:
- 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, be sure you take them out.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always wash your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the right tools. Consider picking up a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax buildup.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has built up on the surface.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully remove any remaining earwax.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any buildup 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.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries out.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re clear of debris.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally 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 typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Make an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.