For people with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and overall quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. The lifespan of your device can be considerably extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s explore some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is advised. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Usually, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Basic daily care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly enhance the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be certain to remove them before showering, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very 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 correct tools. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently removing earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
Different models of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning practices. Here are customized cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has accumulated on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any debris.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly remove any remaining earwax.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything is dry.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Use a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. 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 decrease the chance of these issues.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.