For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and total quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Regular maintenance can considerably 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 tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Usually, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any issues your device may have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly enhance the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common obstacles:
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by keeping your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining 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: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated 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.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific cleaning instructions for each type.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off 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.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Preventing ear infections with effective hygiene
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Excessive accumulation 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.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any questions about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.