For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular care and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Regular maintenance can significantly increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some steps 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. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
In addition to 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. Typically, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic daily care tips
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors 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.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- 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 completely dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Be certain to remove them before showering, going for a swim, or using products like hairspray or perfume.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the right tools. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:
- Microfiber cloth: Perfect for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: For removing debris stuck in the tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning methods. 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.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
- 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 wipe down the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any accumulation. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Protecting against ear infections with effective hygiene
Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively impact the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. These issues can typically be avoided by routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk about any concerns you may have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.