For people who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. The lifespan of your device can be considerably extended by regular 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.
Routine cleaning and professional tuning
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 performing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
Along with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a specialist is advised every six months or so. This helps to detect any problems your device might have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common pitfalls by employing these tips:
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier at night can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you take them out.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids before bed 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 severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- 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 not in use.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always clean your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Consider picking up a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax accumulation.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance techniques.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning techniques. Here are tailored 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
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has built up on the surface.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
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: Carefully wipe off any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any accumulation on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
Protecting against ear infections with effective hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. These problems can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us today if you would like to schedule a consultation to talk about any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.