For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better hearing and general quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
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, simple cleaning routine.
Along with 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. 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 excellent working order.
Simple care tips for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common pitfalls by implementing these tips:
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by keeping your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be sure to take them out before taking a shower, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
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 could include the following:
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax buildup.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to clear away any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has collected on the surface.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything is dry.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- 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: Release any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively impact the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the risk of these problems.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.