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. Regular maintenance can substantially increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a specialist is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common obstacles by implementing these tips:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors instead of bringing them outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be completely dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- 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 not in use.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the right tools. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning practices. Two of the primary types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific cleaning instructions for each type.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- 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: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release 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.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Effective hygiene can help prevent infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also cause discomfort and infection. These problems can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule 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, reach out to us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.