Hearing aids are complex electronic devices with many hard-working and moving parts. Since they are your connection to the world around you, making sure they are working well is crucial. Below is a breakdown of how you should clean and care for your hearing aids.
The Do’s of Hearing Aid Care
Whether you are spending your day hiking in Forest Park or sitting at your dining room table working from home, your hearing aids are exposed to a lot of dirt, sweat and earwax. Making sure to clean your hearing aids every day is crucial for long-term success. Having the right tools for the job can ensure you’re working smarter, not harder. These tools include:
- Vent cleaner.
- Wax pick or wire loop.
- Wax removal brush.
- Clean, dry, soft cloth.
You may purchase these pieces individually or opt to buy a hearing aid cleaning kit. If you are in a pinch or would rather use items you already have, the following may be used:
- A child’s size soft-bristle toothbrush
- Disinfecting wipes (only if they are approved for use on hearing aids)
- Alcohol-free cleaner (only if it is approved for use on hearing aids)
You should incorporate a daily and weekly cleaning regimen into your normal routine. At least once a day you should brush away any wax or debris from the microphone and wipe down the body of the hearing aid using a soft cloth. About once a week you should set aside time for a more thorough cleaning. This includes removing earwax buildup with a wax pick or wire loop and changing out the wax guard.
Always treat your hearing aids like the delicate devices they are. This means you should handle them with care, and when working on them, make sure to do so over a soft surface. This ensures if they do fall from your hands, they will land somewhere safe. Putting a towel down on the counter works well.
The Don’ts of Hearing Aid Care
While cleaning your hearing aids may seem simple enough, it is important to follow the directions outlined below. Deviating from these steps can cause damage. Do not:
- Use water.
- Use a chemical solution.
- Use a cleaner not specifically formulated for use on hearing aids.
- Insert anything into the microphone (that will push the debris into the hearing aid rather than helping to remove it).
To learn more about how to correctly clean your hearing aids or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid professional, contact PDX ENT today.
