Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can considerably increase 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
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in maintaining sound quality and device longevity.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is recommended. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic care guidelines for daily use
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common hurdles:
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be certain to remove them before taking a shower, swimming, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will require the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
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.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any earwax or debris 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.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything is dry.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen 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 serve you well for years to come.
