For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Routine maintenance can significantly increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in maintaining sound quality and device lifespan.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in conjunction with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Simple care guidelines for daily use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by implementing these tips:
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors instead of bringing them outside.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Before swimming, showering, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris stuck in the tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning techniques. 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
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove 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: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
Protecting against ear infections with proper hygiene
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively impact the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the risk of these issues.
Make an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any questions 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 work well for years to come.
