For individuals who have hearing loss, hearing aids are crucial for better 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 considerably lengthened by routine cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to effectively clean and care for 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. 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 in conjunction with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your regular at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a professional is recommended every six months or so. This helps to detect any problems your device may have and helps keep it in excellent working order.
Basic daily care tips
The performance and longevity of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by utilizing these few basic tips. Consider the following tips to avoid common obstacles:
- Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit 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 swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you take them out.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can interfere with the function of your hearing aids so make sure you wash and dry your hands before handling them.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that could cause malfunction.
- Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids at night they will be completely dry by the time you get up and put them back in.
- Protect From Temperature Extremes: 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 properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Microfiber cloth: An ideal tool for cleansing the outer surface of the hearing aid.
- Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris lodged in the hearing aid tubes.
- Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax buildup.
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately removing earwax from small crevices.
- Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
Our hearing specialists can help you keep your hearing aids in tip-top working order by guiding you to the best tools and maintenance techniques.
Cleaning varies depending on the type of hearing aid
Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning strategies. Two of the primary 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
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly remove any remaining earwax.
- Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any earwax or debris from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Make sure the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the whole outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any buildup. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
- Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and carefully brush away any wax or dirt, especially around the receiver and microphone.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries.
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
- Detach the Tubing: Begin by detaching the tubing from the hearing aid itself.
Protecting against ear infections with proper hygiene
Keeping your ears clean 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. These problems can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
Contact us right away if you would like to set up a consultation to talk about 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.