Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly extended by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. 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 advised. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Usually, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to detect any issues your device might have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic care tips for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly enhance the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common hurdles by employing these tips:
- 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.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always clean your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices indoors instead of bringing them outside.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be sure to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
Hearing aid care tools
You will require the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax buildup.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance techniques.
Step-by-step cleaning based on hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning techniques. Here are customized cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning properly.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Proper hygiene can help prevent infections
Outside of the upkeep of your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively impact the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the risk of these problems.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us today if you would like to schedule a consultation to go over any concerns you may have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.