For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and overall quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, 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 suggested. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps diagnose any potential problems early.
Basic care tips for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common obstacles by implementing these tips:
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be completely dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be sure to take them out before showering, swimming, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house 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 storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when not in use.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning methods. 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 collected 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 slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
Preventing ear infections with proper hygiene
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. These issues can usually be avoided by routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Make an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.