For people with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure best possible 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.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be enhanced by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Typically, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by keeping your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when not in use.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Be certain to remove them before taking a shower, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be completely dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
Hearing aid care tools
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. 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.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
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.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Two of the primary types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are precise cleaning instructions for each type.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly remove any remaining earwax.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any debris.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any accumulation 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.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away 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: 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 prevent infections
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these problems.
Schedule an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.