For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. Routine maintenance can significantly increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
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. Usually, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to detect any issues your device might have and helps keep it in prime working condition.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially increased by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common pitfalls by employing these tips:
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be damaging to your hearing aids. Be certain to take them out before showering, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the right tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. 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.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Run 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. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries out.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re clear of debris.
Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. These issues can typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.
