For many of the 48 million Americans with hearing loss, their hearing aids help them connect with others. This is why keeping hearing aids in good working order is crucial. One way to make sure your devices stay in tip-top shape is to take proper care of them. Below is a breakdown of how you should clean and care for your hearing aids.
Make Sure You Have the Right Tools
Your hearing aids spend all day in your ear exposed to dirt, sweat and earwax. This is especially true if you spend a lot of time outside at places with a lot of dirt in the air, such as Capital City BMX. Cleaning your hearing aids every day can help prevent buildup, which can inevitably cause damage.
There are four key cleaning tools you should have on hand: a wax removal brush, a cloth that is soft and clean, a wax pick/wire loop and a vent cleaner. Cleaning kits are also available, which usually contain all the tools you need to keep your hearing aid clean. A multi-tool can be helpful for travel or to keep in your purse or backpack.
Disinfecting wipes may also be used, but only if they are specifically made to be used on hearing aids. An alcohol-free cleaner can be used to clean the earmold portion of your hearing aids, but just like the wipes, you should make sure the cleaner is approved for use on hearing aid.
Some opt to use products they already have at home to clean their hearing aids. A soft-bristled child-size toothbrush can be helpful for removing wax.
Make Sure You Are Careful
Hearing aids are delicate electronic devices that should be handled carefully. When cleaning, inserting or removing your hearing aids, put down a towel so you have a soft surface for them to land on if they fall.
And most importantly, make sure to never wash the hearing aid with water or chemical solutions/wipes. Avoid trying to clean any of the ports by inserting something, as that will just push debris further into the hearing aid.
Make Sure to Follow a Schedule
There are some cleaning tasks that need to be performed every day while others are fine to complete once a week.
Daily Tasks
- Remove debris from the microphone with a brush.
- Wipe down the entire hearing aid with a soft cloth.
Weekly Tasks
- Remove more stubborn buildup with a wax pick or wire loop.
- Replace the wax guard as needed.
To learn more about how you should be caring for your hearing aid or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, contact Carolina Ear, Nose, Throat, Sinus & Allergy today.