For those who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and general quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. Regular maintenance can significantly increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long 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 professional is advised. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Typically, you are encouraged 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 excellent working order.
Basic care guidelines for daily use
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common hurdles by utilizing these tips:
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by keeping your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them outside.
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:
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax buildup.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning strategies. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching 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.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning properly.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. These problems can typically 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 set up a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.