For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and general quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can substantially 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
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 maintaining sound quality and device longevity.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is recommended. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
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:
- 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.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be sure to take them out before showering, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- 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 not in use.
- 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are tailored 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
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim 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.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- 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 remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. These issues can typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.