Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. The lifespan of your device can be substantially extended by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Routine cleaning and professional tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but is really helpful in maintaining sound quality and device longevity.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This helps to identify any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Basic care tips for daily use
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly enhance the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common obstacles by employing these tips:
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be sure to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Think about picking up a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately removing earwax from small crevices.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris stuck in the tubes.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Detailed cleaning determined by 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
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has collected on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries out.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- 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 remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Earwax buildup not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the risk of these issues.
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.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.