For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimum performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly extended 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 tunings
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, 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 prime condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.
Basic daily care tips
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Be sure to take them out before taking a shower, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- 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.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- 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 need the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps get rid of moisture, especially 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.
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 differs depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning practices. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any buildup. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything is dry.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. These issues can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any questions about your hearing aids or would like to set up 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.