For individuals who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by routine 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.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
In addition to your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is suggested. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Typically, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common hurdles:
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you take them out.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors instead of bringing them outside.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Taking care of your hearing aids requires the right tools. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris stuck in the tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, especially after a long day of use.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning methods. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are precise cleaning instructions for each type.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has built up on the surface.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any debris.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these issues.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.