For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and overall quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be substantially extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s explore some steps 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 enhanced by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is recommended. 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 helps to detect any problems your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Basic daily 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:
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you take them out.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Hearing aid care tools
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning practices. Here are tailored cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean 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 obstruction.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Utilize a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease 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 might have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.
