For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and general quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be considerably extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in addition to your regular cleaning schedule. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a specialist is advised every six months or so. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Simple care tips for daily use
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common pitfalls by employing these tips:
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them outside.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be sure to take them out before taking a shower, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
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:
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately removing earwax from small crevices.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris trapped in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. 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 thoroughly remove any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has collected on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any accumulation. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Cleaning your ears 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 typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Make an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to go over 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.