Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be significantly extended by routine 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
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable 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 recommended every six months or so. This helps to identify any issues your device may have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can significantly increase the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common obstacles:
- 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.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to harsh weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, be sure you remove them.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you wear them again in the morning.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Always wash your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
Hearing aid care tools
You will need the right tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris trapped in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Perfect for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax accumulation.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
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 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: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
- 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 carefully remove any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any debris or wax that has collected on the surface.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any accumulation. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries out.
- 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.
Preventing ear infections through proper hygiene
Outside of the upkeep of your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Earwax accumulation not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. These problems can usually be avoided by routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
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 work well for years to come.