For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Regular maintenance can substantially extend their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tuning
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The lifespan of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced 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 going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Usually, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any problems your device might have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Basic care tips for daily use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common hurdles by utilizing these tips:
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly 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 their charger or their protective case when not in use.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be certain to remove them before showering, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them an opportunity to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
Hearing aid care tools
You will require the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Wax pick or loop: For gently cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
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
There are some slight differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are tailored cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has collected on the surface.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
Cleaning 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.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
Preventing ear infections with effective hygiene
Outside of the upkeep of your devices, it’s equally important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. These issues can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to talk about any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will benefit you for many years with proper maintenance.