For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for improved hearing and overall quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly 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 go 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 once a week or more. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but is really helpful in preserving sound quality and device longevity.
We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in addition to your regular cleaning schedule. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a specialist is advised every six months or so. This not only keeps them in prime condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.
Basic care guidelines for everyday use
Taking a few basic precautions can greatly enhance the longevity and performance of your hearing aids. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common hurdles:
- 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: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before swimming, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them 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.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: To remove any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Ideal for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax accumulation.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the right tools and techniques to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.
Step-by-step cleaning based on hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning guidelines for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
- Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
- Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any accumulation 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 Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
Preventing ear infections through proper hygiene
Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the functionality of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and potentially infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these issues.
Schedule an appointment to have your hearing aids cleaned by a professional
Contact us right away if you would like to schedule 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.