Hearing aids are essential devices that improve 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 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.
Routine cleaning and professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be enhanced by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. 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 not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Basic care guidelines for daily use
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common hurdles:
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you wash 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 prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be sure to take them out before taking a shower, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris stuck in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax buildup.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- 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 best tools and maintenance practices.
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 specific cleaning instructions for each type.
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 obstruction.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently 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.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything is dry.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any accumulation 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.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively impact the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these issues.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to set up 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.
