How to Correctly Maintain and Clean Your Hearing Aids

Man cleaning his hearing aid.

For individuals with hearing loss, hearing aids are essential for better hearing and overall quality of life. They do, however, need to be routinely cleaned and correctly maintained just like any technology does. The lifespan of your device can be substantially extended 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.

Regular cleaning and professional tune-ups

You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be enhanced by doing a quick, simple cleaning routine.

We suggest you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up along with your regular cleaning schedule. It’s comparable to a dental visit where professional cleanings are essential alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. A deep clean by a specialist is recommended every six months or so. This not only keeps them in top condition but also helps identify any potential issues early.

Simple care tips for everyday use

The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be considerably increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common obstacles by employing these tips:

Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
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.
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 Handling, Clean Your Hands: 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.
Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be damaged by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to extreme weather conditions. Leave your hearing aids in the house if the weather is especially hot and humid or cold and wet outside.

Tools for proper hearing aid care

You will require 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:

Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax buildup.
Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris trapped in the tubes.
Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture accumulated after using the device all day.
Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Wax pick or loop: For delicately removing earwax from small crevices.

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

Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type

There are some minor differences in how you clean different models of hearing aids. Here are tailored 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

Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down the whole outer surface, removing any residue.
Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has collected on the surface.
Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be gently extracted using the loop or pick.
Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a slim cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.

Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids

Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, particularly around the receiver and microphone.
Reassemble and Test: After everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and check to make sure they’re working properly.
Soak the Ear Mold: Take off and soak the ear mold in warm, soapy water to loosen any accumulation. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Clean the Microphone Openings: Free the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after running a pipe cleaner through it.
Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is remove the tube from the device.

Preventing ear infections with effective hygiene

Cleaning your ears 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 issues can usually be avoided by routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids.

Set up a professional hearing aid cleaning

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

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment