Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be substantially extended by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is advised every six months or so. This helps to detect any issues your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working order.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common obstacles by utilizing these tips:
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be certain to remove them before taking a shower, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the right 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:
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance techniques.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning techniques. Two of the primary types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are precise cleaning instructions for each type.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- 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.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Wipe the Exterior: Wipe down the entire outer surface with a microfiber cloth to eliminate any debris.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
Preventing ear infections through proper hygiene
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these problems.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to schedule a consultation to go over any concerns you may have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.