For those who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and general 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. 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 tunings
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 improved by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Usually, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to detect any issues your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working order.
Simple care tips for everyday use
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by using these few basic tips. Avoid common obstacles by utilizing these tips:
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be certain to remove them before taking a shower, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently removing earwax from small crevices.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax buildup.
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 varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning strategies. 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.
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.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- 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: Gently wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything is dry.
Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. These issues can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Make an appointment to get 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.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with proper maintenance.