Hearing aids are essential devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be substantially extended by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to effectively clean and care for your hearing aids.
Regular cleaning and professional tune-ups
You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but goes a long way in maintaining sound quality and device longevity.
We recommend 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. Usually, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by utilizing these few basic tips. Avoid common pitfalls by utilizing these tips:
- 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 a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
- Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be certain to remove them before showering, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- 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.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could interfere with their function.
- 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.
Hearing aid care tools
Maintaining your hearing aids requires the right tools. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax accumulation.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
- Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in great working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance practices.
Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are precise cleaning instructions for each type.
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Gently wipe away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully extracted using the loop or pick.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any buildup. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections
Cleaning your ears is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Earwax buildup not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these problems.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to discuss any concerns you might have about hearing aids.
Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with correct maintenance.
