How to Clean and Maintain Your Hearing Aids
If you wear hearing aids, regular cleaning and maintenance are an important part of taking care of your devices.
Wax, moisture, and debris can build up over time, which is why making cleaning part of your routine can help keep your hearing aids working properly.
In this blog, we’ll cover a few simple ways to clean and maintain your hearing aids at home.
How Often Should You Clean Your Hearing Aids?
A quick cleaning should be part of your daily routine.
When you remove your hearing aids at night, use the cleaning cloth provided in your hearing aid kit to wipe down the device, including the sleeve or tip.
About once a month, you can give your hearing aids a more thorough cleaning using the supplies provided in your cleaning kit.
How Do You Replace a Wax Trap?
Wax traps help prevent earwax from reaching the receiver of your hearing aid. Over time, they can become clogged and need to be replaced.
To replace one, remove the sleeve or tip from the end of the hearing aid. Use the tool included with your replacement wax traps to remove the old one, flip the tool around, and insert the new wax trap.
Once you are finished, put the sleeve or tip back on and make sure it is securely attached before wearing your hearing aid.
If you are unsure how to replace your wax trap, your audiologist can show you how.
How Do You Clean the Microphones?
Hearing aids have small microphone openings that can collect dust and debris.
Use the small brush included in your cleaning kit to gently brush away any buildup. Turning the hearing aid upside down while brushing can help debris fall away from the device.
What Should You Avoid?
Hearing aids do not like water, so avoid using water to clean them. Your cleaning kit may include alcohol prep pads that can be used to wipe down certain parts of the device because they dry quickly.
Always follow the care instructions for your specific hearing aids and ask your audiologist if you are unsure about a cleaning method.
When Should You Ask for Help?
If your hearing aids sound weaker than usual, are not working properly, or continue to have problems after cleaning, contact your audiologist.
Your hearing care team can help determine what may be causing the issue and make sure your devices are working properly.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Working Their Best
Regular cleaning only takes a few minutes, but it is an important part of hearing aid care.
If you have questions about cleaning or maintaining your hearing aids, the team at Coates Hearing Clinic is here to help.
