Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. Routine maintenance can considerably increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in addition to your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common obstacles:
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Be sure to take them out before showering, swimming, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- 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.
Hearing aid care tools
You will require the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any debris.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Protecting against ear infections through effective hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to 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 questions about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.