Tips for Upkeep and Cleaning Your Hearing Aids

Man cleaning his hearing aid.

Hearing aids are essential devices that improve your hearing and boost your quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Regular maintenance can substantially increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing 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 tunings

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

We recommend you periodically bring your hearing aids in for a professional tune-up in conjunction 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. 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 prime working condition.

Basic daily care tips

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

Before Bed, Clean Them: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charging unit to prevent exposure to dirt or physical damage.
Keep Them Dry and Chemical-Free: Your hearing aids can be compromised by too much moisture. Before going for a swim, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
Use a Dehumidifier: If it’s really humid, a dehumidifier can be utilized to keep the moisture away from your hearing aids.
Wash Hands Before Handling: Always wash your hands before handling your hearing aids to avoid transferring oils or debris that could hinder their function.
Protect From Extreme Temperatures: 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.

Hearing aid care tools

You will need the appropriate tools to properly maintain your hearing aids. Consider investing in a hearing aid care kit, which might include the following:

Hearing aid dryer: Dries any moisture built up after using the device all day.
Cleaning brush: For eliminating dust and wax buildup.
Slim tube cleaner: To eliminate any debris stuck in the hearing aid tubes.
Microfiber cloth: The best tool for cleaning the outer surface of the hearing aid.
Wax pick or loop: To gently clear out earwax and debris from tight spaces

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

Different models of hearing aids require slightly different cleaning strategies. Two of the main types of hearing aids are Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-The-Ear (ITE): Here are specific cleaning instructions for each type.

Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids

Remove Wax with a Loop: Any remaining earwax can be carefully removed using the loop or pick.
Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, getting rid of any residue.
Clear the Ventilation Tube: Push a thin cleaning tool through the vent tube to ensure there’s no blockage.
Brush Debris Away: Carefully brush away any debris or earwax from the surface of your hearing aid while holding it face down.

Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids

Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to clear away any stubborn wax that may remain.
Detach the Tubing: The first thing to do is remove the tube from the device.
Clear the Tubing: Clean the exterior of the tube with a cloth after pushing a pipe cleaner through it.
Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything dries.
Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the opening of the microphone to ensure they’re clear of debris.
Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by removing them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Eliminate any excess moisture with a tubing blower and finish with a dry cloth.
Clean the Aid: Carefully wipe off any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying particular attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.

Preventing ear infections with proper hygiene

Beyond maintaining your devices, it’s equally important to keep your ears clean. Earwax accumulation not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also result in discomfort and infection. Regularly cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help reduce the chance of these issues.