For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Routine maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This helps to identify any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by using these few basic tips. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common obstacles:
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- 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 they aren’t in use.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Be certain to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some minor differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions 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
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re working properly.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe off any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Utilize a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
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 result in discomfort and infection. These issues can typically 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 schedule a consultation to talk about any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.