Like most high-tech devices, proper maintenance is essential to the longevity and overall performance of hearing aids.
At Hearing Associates, we are always available to help answer even the most simple hearing aid questions, and this certainly includes how to clean your hearing aids.
Hearing aids can become dirty very easily, especially because they are worn on the body every day, usually for long periods of time.
So, having a regular cleaning schedule or routine is one of the easiest ways to make sure your hearing aid(s) are in tip-top shape!
The first step to making a habit of cleaning your hearing aids daily is making sure you have all the proper tools in a prominent, accessible place to help you remember.
I suggest creating a small “cleaning kit” and keeping it somewhere where you do your morning and/or nighttime routine, whether that be the bathroom, bedroom, etc., so that you can easily incorporate it into your daily activities.
This cleaning kit should include a soft cloth, a soft bristle brush, a wax pick, and a bulb blower. Now, since there are two different hearing aids, there are also two different methods to cleaning them.
They are as follows:
To Clean In The Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids:
- Open up the battery case and blow out any excess moisture.
- Use the soft cloth to wipe down the entire device gently.
- Ensure that each device’s opening is alternately facing downward over a towel; use the soft bristle brush to clean any wax or debris from the openings. Be sure not to rush this step because hearing aids are fragile and can be altered very easily.
- If any debris is stuck inside the opening and cannot be easily removed with the brush, gently use the wax pick to remove it. Again, make sure you take your time doing this.
- Finally, wipe the entire device with the soft cloth once more to ensure the hearing aid case is fully clean of any wax or debris.
To Clean Behind The Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids:
- Remove the earmold from the hook to clean both parts separately.
- Follow the same procedure as stated for the ITE hearing aids above.
- Remember that staining and discoloring earmolds over time are very common, and cleaning them daily will prevent this. Soaking them weekly in warm soapy water is also very helpful in preventing this.
- Make sure to allow the wet part to dry overnight or use a bulb blower to dry them.
- Finally, thoroughly wipe down both parts before reassembling them.
Additionally, there are a few other things that you can do to make sure that you have the best and longest experience with your hearing device(s).
First, if you live in a humid area, use a dehumidifier in your home to reduce the chances of excess moisture getting stuck inside your hearing aid.
Try to avoid extreme heat or cold if possible because these conditions can easily lead to water or UV damage happening to your device. Keep them away from water at all times (i.e., remove them before swimming, showering, etc.), and make sure you NEVER use alcohol or any other cleaning solutions when cleaning them.
Lastly, make sure you regularly examine your device(s) for cracks, dents, or any other structural damage, as they can worsen if they go unnoticed and are much easier to fix when the damage is smaller.
Please remember, we are always here to help you with your hearing aids! If you do find your hearing aid damaged, we would love to fix it for you.
If you are unsure or nervous about cleaning your device for any reason, don’t be afraid to speak up!
Our providers are happy to walk you through the steps and make sure you know how to care for your device properly, so please don’t hesitate to give us a call at (818) 727 7020, or if you would rather address your questions remotely, head over to our website to set up a virtual appointment.