For people with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be considerably extended by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
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. Usually, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to detect any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common pitfalls by implementing these tips:
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you take them out.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will require the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent 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 tailored cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently brush away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any accumulation. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re working properly.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
Preventing ear infections with proper hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. These issues can usually be avoided by routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to talk about any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.