For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better hearing and total 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 substantially extended by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. Let’s take a look at some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced by doing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is recommended. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Usually, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any issues your device might have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common hurdles:
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always wash your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be sure to take them out before taking a shower, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some minor differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are tailored cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully remove any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently brush away any wax or debris that has built up on the surface.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Protecting against ear infections through effective hygiene
Outside of the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these problems.
Make 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.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.