For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. Regular maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but is really helpful in maintaining 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 are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Usually, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common hurdles by employing these tips:
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, be sure you take them out.
- 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.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately removing earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Two of the primary 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: Gently wipe 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.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning properly.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
Protecting against ear infections with proper hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also cause discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these issues.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.
