Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure optimal 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 walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device lifespan.
We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in addition to your regular cleaning schedule. 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 professional is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Simple care tips for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Use a Dehumidifier: Keeping your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Be certain to remove them before showering, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the correct tools. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Step-by-step cleaning based on hearing aid type
Different models of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning methods. Here are customized cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly remove any remaining earwax.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any accumulation. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re working correctly.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
Proper hygiene can help you avoid infections
Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these problems.
Schedule an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with correct maintenance.