Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal 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 go through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is recommended. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a specialist is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential problems early.
Basic care tips for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- 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.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used 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. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
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.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries out.
- 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 get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Cleaning your ears is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the risk of these problems.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to talk about any concerns you may have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.