You have invested in hearing aids and you expect them to last. It’s pretty much that simple, right? Well, properly caring for and cleaning your hearing aids will help extend the life of the device. Hearing aids are small, electronic devices but they actually can operate in warm or damp conditions. However, how you store them and maintain them at home can really make the difference in them staying in optimal shape. Are you cleaning your hearing aids correctly?
Cleaning your hearing aid can be done by a hearing professional or audiologist when you visit them after the initial fitting and consultation appointment, but you will also want to clean and maintain the hearing device between visits as well. To keep your hearing aid in the best condition possible, you will want to follow a few essential steps throughout the cleaning process. Cleaning and monitoring your device each day as part of your routine could help to increase its longevity. At the very least, be sure to clean and inspect it weekly. For example, check to see if there are visible issues or damage to the device when you remove it. If the condition looks good, then you’re ready to get to cleaning it.
You’ll want the proper tools which include a wax pick and small brush to remove any wax buildup at the end of the hearing aid where sound is emitted. If you have wax buildup on the hearing aid device, it can clog the microphone or the receiver and that forms static or feedback sounds. Once you remove any visible wax or dirt, you can then remove the ear mold from the hook and clean it off with mild soapy water. We advise against using cleaning wipes with chemicals or alcohol when cleaning hearing aids as they could damage the device. Then, dry it with a blower or dryer which will get rid of any excess water from the tube. Lastly, leave the tubing in a safe, dry spot overnight so that it dries completely. Storing your hearing aids in a dry, clean spot can also help to avoid debris or dust from clogging its components.
There are also little tips that people learn over time to help keep their hearing aids a bit cleaner. Apply hair products like sprays, gels or creams before putting in your hearing aids. Wash or cleanse your face without hearing aids in to avoid unwanted moisture. Clean your hearing aids at the end of the day since you’ll need to remove it for a few hours. Get in a routine when it comes to cleaning and monitoring your hearing aids. If you have any questions or concerns when it comes to maintaining or cleaning your hearing devices our audiologists would be happy to answer your questions or provide more advice when it comes to keeping your hearing aids in their optimal working condition.
