Tips for Upkeep and Cleaning Your Hearing Aids

Man cleaning his hearing aid.

Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. The lifespan of your device can be significantly lengthened by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more 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

You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. A quick cleaning routine doesn’t take much time but goes a long way in preserving sound quality and device longevity.

In addition to your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing professional is suggested. Think of it like visiting the dentist, while brushing and flossing are helpful, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Typically, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.

Basic care tips for everyday use

The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably enhanced by using these few basic tips. Consider the following tips to avoid common hurdles:

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.
Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, be sure you take them out.
Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Always clean your hands before touching your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids before bed gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Extreme weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is particularly hot and humid or cold and wet outside.

Tools for proper hearing aid care

You will require the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which may include the following:

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

Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in superb condition.

Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type

Different models of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning strategies. Here are customized cleaning instructions 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

Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently brush away any debris or wax that has accumulated on the surface.
Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a thin cleaning tool through it.
Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to carefully extract any remaining earwax.

Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids

Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re free of debris.
Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to release any accumulation. Use a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything dries.
Clean the Aid: Position the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any wax or dirt, particularly around the receiver and microphone.

Preventing ear infections with effective hygiene

Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. 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 decrease the chance of these problems.

Schedule an appointment to get your hearing aids cleaned by a professional

Your hearing aids will serve you well for many years with proper maintenance.

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment