Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be considerably lengthened by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal 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 not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential problems early.
Basic care guidelines for daily use
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common pitfalls by utilizing these tips:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Be sure to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.
- 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.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
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:
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax accumulation.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently removing earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance techniques.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning guidelines for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate 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.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
Protecting against ear infections with proper hygiene
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the risk of these problems.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us today 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 serve you well for years to come.