If you have hearing loss and desire to improve your communication and quality of life, you need to get hearing aids. Every tool requires proper care and maintenance to function properly and it’s no different for hearing aids. We came up with several cleaning tips and steps to ensure that your devices perform better and last longer. Check them out!
Clean Them Regularly and Store Properly
For hearing aids to last a long time, they must be cleaned regularly because earwax, moisture, and dirt can build up and affect their performance. Do not use water or cleaning solutions to clean them to avoid damaging delicate internal components. Just use a dry, soft cloth to wipe them down every night. Ensure to check the receiver and microphone opening regularly, and use a small brush or special cleaning tool to remove any debris. If there are buildups that you cannot clean with your cleaning tools, visit a hearing health professional for professional cleaning.
After cleaning your hearing aids, store them in a cool, dry place. Storage is important for increasing the lifespan of your devices, so store them properly when not in use. Avoid leaving them in areas with high humidity, like the bathroom, because moisture damages electronics. We advise that you get a hearing aid dehumidifier to help remove any accumulated moisture from the day. Always use a hard case to protect them from physical damage when you’re on the go; they can be easily knocked around or crushed when carried in a bag or pocket.
Battery Maintenance
Batteries are the lifeblood of your hearing aids, and to extend their life, you should turn off your devices when you’re not using them. Moisture tends to accumulate during the day, so open the battery compartment at night to expel it and prolong the battery life. Always have spare batteries with you in case of unforeseen circumstances, and replace batteries when needed. Have your hearing health professional check the batteries during hearing exams to ensure their functionality and prevent leakage, if any.
Protect from Moisture
Moisture is an enemy of hearing aids, and it is vital to protect your devices from getting wet. If you find yourself in a wet environment like the pool or bathroom, remove your hearing aids and store them in the storage case. However, if you live in a humid area or tend to sweat a lot, use a hearing aid cover for extra protection from moisture. In case your hearing aids get wet, remove the batteries immediately and allow them to dry completely before reinserting. A hearing aid dehumidifier can help speed up the drying process.
Handle with Care and Use Proper Cleaning Tools
Hearing aids are delicate devices. Handle them with care to avoid physical damage. When inserting or removing your hearing aids, do so over a soft surface like a bed or a towel. This way, if they slip from your hands, they won’t hit a hard surface and potentially break. Avoid dropping them, and never try to repair them yourself. If you encounter any issues, take them to your hearing health professional. Attempting to fix them on your own can often lead to more damage and void the warranty.
Use Proper Tools
Using the right tools for maintenance is key. Many hearing aids come with a set of small tools designed specifically for cleaning and maintenance. These tools might include a small brush, a wax pick, or a tube blower. Using these tools correctly can help keep your hearing aids in good working condition without causing damage.
Keep an Eye on Performance and Go for Regular Checkups
Be vigilant about how your hearing aids are performing. If you notice any changes in sound quality or unusual feedback, or if they seem to be malfunctioning, don’t ignore these signs. Early detection of problems can prevent more significant issues down the road. Regularly monitoring their performance ensures they are always working at their best and can help you avoid sudden failures.
Just like any other medical device, regular check-ups are essential for keeping your hearing aids in top condition. Schedule regular appointments with a hearing health professional for a thorough examination of your hearing aids. These visits can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems. During these appointments, our hearing health professional can also perform professional cleanings, adjustments, and software updates to ensure optimal performance.
After earning a degree in electronics in 1982, Ken began his career by doing hearing aid repairs. As a hearing device user since he was eight and now with over 30 years of experience fitting hearing aids, Ken personally understands the unique problems and solutions associated with hearing loss and hearing devices.
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With so many myths and misinformation about hearing loss and hearing care, it’s often the unknowns or confusion that holds us back from making the right decisions.
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That’s why we have a hearing care expert available to help.
If you have a question, or would like to speak to a professional privately about the challenges that you may be facing, then simply request a callback and we’ll call you for a friendly no-obligation conversation.