For individuals who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. The lifespan of your device can be considerably extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be increased, and the sound quality will be improved 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 similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Usually, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any issues your device might 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 increased by using these few basic tips. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be certain to take them out before taking a shower, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- 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: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will require the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax accumulation.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning techniques. 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
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the whole outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any debris.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has built up on the surface.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need 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 area around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to remove any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any accumulation. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re functioning properly.
Preventing ear infections with proper hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these problems.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.
