5 Easy Tips for Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean
Taking care of your hearing aids can mean better performance, longer lifespan, and fewer repairs. Whether you’re new to hearing aids or have been wearing them for years, these tips will help you keep them in great shape.
Why Cleaning Your Hearing Aids Matters
Hearing aids sit in or behind your ears, so they’re exposed to earwax, oils, moisture, and dust every day. Over time, this buildup can clog microphones or receivers, reducing sound quality and potentially causing damage. Regular cleaning improves performance and helps prevent infections by keeping bacteria away. Plus, well-maintained hearing aids last longer, which can save you money on repairs or replacements.
How to Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean
Caring for your hearing aids doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get started:
Wipe Them Down Daily: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe down your hearing aids at the end of each day. This removes dirt, earwax, or moisture that may have built up. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they can damage the electronics.
Check for Earwax: Earwax can clog the sound outlet and microphone, so check these areas regularly. Many hearing aids come with a small cleaning tool, like a brush or wire loop, designed to remove wax safely. Be gentle to avoid pushing wax further into the device.
Clean the Earmolds or Domes: If your hearing aids have earmolds or domes, remove them and wash them with warm, soapy water. Make sure they are completely dry before reattaching them to your hearing aids. This step helps keep your devices fresh and comfortable.
Store Them Properly: When you’re not wearing your hearing aids, store them in a cool, dry place. Many people use a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying box to keep moisture away, especially in humid climates. Proper storage helps extend their life and ensures they’re ready to use.
Schedule Regular Checkups: Even with great at-home care, it’s helpful to bring your hearing aids to a professional for cleaning and maintenance. They can check for any issues you might not notice and make sure your hearing aids are in peak condition.
Quick Do’s and Don’ts
Do: Handle your hearing aids with clean, dry hands.
Do: Turn them off when not in use to conserve battery life.
Don’t: Use household cleaners or sharp objects on your hearing aids.
Don’t: Submerge your hearing aids in water or leave them in extreme temperatures.
Stop by Ultimate Hearing of Tennessee for Expert Support
At Ultimate Hearing of Tennessee, we understand how important your hearing aids are to you. That’s why we’re here to help with everything from routine cleanings to troubleshooting issues. If you have questions about keeping your hearing aids clean or it’s time for a professional tune-up, our friendly team is just a call away. Stop by or book an appointment today—we’ll help you get the most out of your hearing aids so you can enjoy every moment!
Content based on research from peer-reviewed sources including theNational Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD): Hearing Aids Maintenance Tips, and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): Hearing Aid Tips.
