For individuals who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and total quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can considerably extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
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 maintaining sound quality and device lifespan.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This helps to detect any problems your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Basic care tips for daily use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially enhanced by using these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by implementing these tips:
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very 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 handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Be sure to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: 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
You will need the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning methods. Two of the primary 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
- 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 wipe down the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Hold 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 working correctly.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation on the ear molds by removing 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: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
Protecting against ear infections through effective hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly 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 questions about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.