Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and boost your quality of life. However, like any technological investment, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Routine maintenance can considerably increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s take a look at some steps you can take to maintain your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups
To keep your hearing aids functioning at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced by performing a quick, simple cleaning routine.
In addition to your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is recommended. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. A deep clean by a specialist is advised every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps diagnose any potential problems early.
Basic everyday care tips
Taking a few simple precautions can greatly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Be certain to remove them before taking a shower, going for a swim, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids inside your home if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.
- 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.
- 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will require the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Think about investing in a hearing aid care kit, which could include the following:
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Cleaning brush: For removing dust and wax accumulation.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
- Wax pick or loop: To delicately clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris trapped in the tubes.
Your hearing specialist can guide you on the right tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different models of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning methods. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has built up on the surface.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clear the Tubing: Clean the outside of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Release any accumulation on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Get rid of any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by separating the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Preventing ear infections through proper hygiene
Cleaning your ears is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax buildup not only inhibits your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these issues.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to schedule a professional cleaning, contact us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to work well for years to come.
