Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Routine maintenance can substantially extend 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 tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids functioning 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 in addition to 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 specialist is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly enhance the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Before swimming, showering, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when not in use.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and practices 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 techniques. Here are customized cleaning guidelines for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has accumulated on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release 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.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- 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.
Preventing ear infections through effective hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively impact the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the risk of these issues.
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.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.