Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Routine maintenance can substantially increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s take a look at some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, easy 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 visiting 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 helps to detect any issues your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common obstacles:
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them outside.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some slight differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are precise cleaning instructions for each type.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, getting rid of 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 thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe off any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. These problems can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any questions about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.