For those with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and general quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular maintenance 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 effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. 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. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, 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 helps to identify any issues your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working condition.
Basic care guidelines for daily use
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common pitfalls:
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices indoors rather than bringing them outside.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in the charging unit or their protective case when not in use.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always wash your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
- Clean Before Bed: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you wake 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 applying products like hairspray or perfume.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
- Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, especially after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
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.
Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning strategies. Two of the primary types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific cleaning instructions for each type.
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently brush away any wax or debris that has built up on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re working correctly.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Remove and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any accumulation. Use a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Protecting against ear infections through proper hygiene
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Excessive accumulation of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. These problems can typically be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Make an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any questions about your hearing aids or would like to schedule 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.