Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Your Hearing Aids

For people with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and total quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Routine maintenance can substantially increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. Let’s explore some measures you can take to maintain your hearing aids.

Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups

To keep your hearing aids working at their best, it’s essential to clean them on a daily or weekly schedule. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take very long but goes a long way in maintaining sound quality and device lifespan.

In addition to your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, 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 top condition but also helps identify any potential problems early.

Simple care tips for everyday use

Taking a few basic precautions can greatly enhance the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common hurdles by implementing these tips:

• Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by excessive moisture. Be sure to remove them before showering, swimming, or applying products like hairspray or perfume.
• Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be totally dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
• Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
• Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
• 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.
• Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s particularly cold or hot, leave your devices inside rather than bringing them outside.

Hearing aid care tools

You will need the appropriate tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:

• Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
• Cleaning brush: For clearing away excessive wax and dust.
• Slim tube cleaner: To clear out any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
• Wax pick or loop: To gently clear away earwax and debris from tight spaces
• Microfiber cloth: Perfect for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.

Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the appropriate tools and maintenance practices.

Step-by-step cleaning determined by hearing aid type

There are some slight differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).

How to clean In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids

• Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully remove any remaining earwax.
• Brush Debris Away: Gently brush away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
• Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
• Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.

Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids

• Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working correctly.
• Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
• Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
• Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any wax or dirt while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
• Use a Wax Pick: Eliminate any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
• Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
• Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any buildup. Utilize a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.

Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections

Keeping your ears clean is just as important as keeping your hearing aid clean. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help decrease the chance of these problems.

Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning

Contact us right away if you would like to schedule a consultation to go over any concerns you may have about hearing aids.

Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.