Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Regular maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s take a look at some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular 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 longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced 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. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a professional is advised every six months or so. This helps to detect any issues your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Simple care guidelines for daily use
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always wash your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Be certain to take them out before showering, swimming, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- 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.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the right tools. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Step-by-step cleaning based on hearing aid type
There are some slight differences in how you clean different types 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.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries.
Protecting against ear infections with effective hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. These issues can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.