Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance can substantially increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s take a look at 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 at least once every week. The longevity of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be improved by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is advised every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps diagnose any potential problems early.
Simple care tips for everyday use
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common pitfalls by employing these tips:
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be certain to take them out before taking a shower, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- 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.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.
Hearing aid care tools
You will require the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Step-by-step cleaning based on hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning techniques. 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
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully remove any remaining earwax.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- 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: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything is dry.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any buildup. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these problems.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us today if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk about any concerns you may have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.