Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and boost 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 substantially extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s take a look at some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and 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 maintaining sound quality and device lifespan.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in conjunction with your regular cleaning schedule. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps diagnose any potential issues early.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common obstacles:
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- 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.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when not in use.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you take them out.
Hearing aid care tools
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance practices.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. 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
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has built up on the surface.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re functioning properly.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
Protecting against ear infections with proper hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as 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. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these problems.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us today if you would like to set up a consultation to discuss any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.