For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Routine maintenance can considerably extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in addition to your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic care guidelines for daily use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common pitfalls by employing these tips:
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: 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 impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them outside.
Hearing aid care tools
You will require the right tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris trapped in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. 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.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries out.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe off any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear 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.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
Preventing ear infections through proper hygiene
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. These problems can usually be avoided by routinely 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.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.