Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and enhance your 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 lengthened 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.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
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 improved by performing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This helps to detect any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the right 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:
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax buildup.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Two of the main 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
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has built up on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- 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 gently removed using the loop or pick.
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. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Protecting against ear infections with effective hygiene
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these problems.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.