For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be considerably lengthened by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. The longevity of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be enhanced by performing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
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 important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a specialist is recommended every six months or so. This helps to detect any issues your device may have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, be sure you take them out.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Consider picking up a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax buildup.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently removing earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some slight differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are tailored cleaning instructions for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently brush away any debris or wax that has built up on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- 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: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re working properly.
Preventing ear infections with proper hygiene
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. These issues can typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Make an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any questions about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with proper maintenance.