For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and general quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a specialist is advised every six months or so. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps diagnose any potential problems early.
Basic everyday care tips
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common hurdles by implementing these tips:
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Before swimming, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- 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: Severe 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: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will require the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance practices.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Two of the main 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
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently brush away any debris or wax that has accumulated on the surface.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently removed using the loop or pick.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything is dry.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe off any wax or dirt 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 loosen any accumulation. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
Preventing ear infections with proper hygiene
Outside of the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively impact the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these problems.
Schedule an appointment to have 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.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.