How to Properly Maintain and Clean Your Hearing Aids

Man cleaning his hearing aid.

Hearing aids are crucial devices that help your hearing and enhance your quality of life. However, like any technological device, they require routine care and cleaning to ensure best possible performance. Routine maintenance can considerably increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.

Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tune-ups

To keep your hearing aids working at their best, daily or weekly cleaning is essential. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.

We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in addition to your regular cleaning schedule. Think of it like visiting 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 diagnose any potential issues early.

Basic everyday care tips

The performance and lifespan of your hearing aids can be substantially increased by using these few basic tips. Avoid common pitfalls by implementing these tips:

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.
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.
Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, showering, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
Protect From Temperature Extremes: Severe 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. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:

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

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

Detailed cleaning based on hearing aid type

Different models of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning methods. Here are customized cleaning instructions for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).

Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids

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

Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids

Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Utilize a tubing blower to remove excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the portion around the receiver and microphone.
Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
Use a Wax Pick: Remove any stubborn wax with a loop or pick.
Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids after everything is dry.
Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.

Effective hygiene can help prevent infections

Beyond the upkeep of your devices, it’s just as important to keep your ears clean. Excessive buildup of earwax can negatively affect the function of your hearing aid and cause your ears discomfort and possibly infection. These problems can usually be avoided by regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids.

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

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

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment