Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist 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 recommended every six months or so. This helps to detect any problems your device might have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Basic everyday care tips
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by employing these tips:
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- 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 applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: Perfect for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax accumulation.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some slight differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are tailored cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
Effective hygiene can help prevent infections
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively impact the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. These issues can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to schedule a consultation to go over any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.