For individuals who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and total quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Routine maintenance can substantially extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced by performing a quick, easy 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. A deep clean by a professional is advised every six months or so. This helps to identify any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Basic everyday care tips
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be substantially increased by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common obstacles by employing these tips:
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be certain to take them out before showering, swimming, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- 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: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the right tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris trapped in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance practices.
Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models 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.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re working properly.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Beyond the upkeep of 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 routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule an appointment to get 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 benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.