Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly extended 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.
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 much time but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any issues your device might have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic daily care tips
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by utilizing these tips:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Before swimming, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- 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.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the right 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:
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Microfiber cloth: Perfect for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax buildup.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance techniques.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning techniques. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific cleaning instructions for each type.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any debris.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything is dry.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also cause discomfort and infection. These issues can usually be avoided by routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to discuss any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.
