How to Properly Maintain and Clean Your Hearing Aids

Man cleaning his hearing aid.

Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and enhance your 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 significantly extended by regular cleaning which will also allow you to hear more clearly. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.

Routine cleaning and professional tune-ups

You should clean your hearing aids once a week or more. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by performing a quick, easy cleaning routine.

Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. Think of it like going to the dentist, while brushing and flossing help, professional cleanings ensure the best results. Usually, you are encouraged to bring your hearing aids in every six months for a deep clean by a specialist. 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 substantially enhanced by utilizing these few basic tips. Consider the following guidelines to avoid common hurdles:

Before Handling, Clean Your Hands: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Severe weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices indoors instead of bringing them outside.
Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Your hearing aids can be compromised by excessive moisture. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s very humid, a dehumidifier can be used to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Before Bed, Clean Them: When you clean your hearing aids before bed they will be completely dry by the time you wake up and put them back in.
Safe Storage: Prevent physical damage and exposure to dirt and debris by storing your hearing aids in their charger or their protective case when they aren’t in use.

Tools for proper hearing aid care

You will need the right tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Here are a few of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:

Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
Microfiber cloth: Perfect for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
Slim tube cleaner: For the removal of debris stuck in the tubes.
Cleaning brush: For getting rid of dust and wax accumulation.

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

Cleaning differs depending on the type of hearing aid

Different types of hearing aids require somewhat different cleaning techniques. Here are tailored cleaning guidelines for two prevalent types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).

Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids

Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly extract any remaining earwax.
Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no obstruction.
Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, carefully brush away any wax or debris that has collected on the surface.

How to clean Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids

Reassemble and Test: Once everything is dry, reassemble your hearing aids and test to make sure they’re functioning correctly.
Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
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.
Clear the Tubing: Push a pipe cleaner through the tubing to eliminate wax or moisture, then wipe the outside with a cloth.
Clean the Microphone Openings: Clear the microphone of debris by brushing its opening.
Clean the Aid: Hold the hearing aid face down and gently brush away any dirt or wax, especially around the receiver and microphone.

Protecting against ear infections through effective hygiene

Keeping your ears clean is just as important as cleaning your hearing aid. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also cause discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these problems.

Schedule 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