Hearing aids might be tiny but they’re certainly mighty. From Bluetooth connectivity to directional microphones and noise reduction features, there can be a lot of technology packed into those little things. However, to get the most out of them, there is some maintenance required. These hardworking troopers spend most of their time in land where few dare to venture – the inside of your ear canals. Moisture, warmth, and earwax don’t tend to mix well with electronics, but there are a few steps you can take to maximize the longevity of your hearing aids.
6 Steps for Hearing Aid Maintenance
1. Wash your hands before handling your hearing aids.
Ensure your hands are clean of oils, dirt, grime, or other substances before touching your hearing aids. You don’t want to get Bolognese sauce from your hands to your hearing aids to your ear.
2. Give your hearing aids a quick clean at the end of the day, every day.
You will be able to find step-by-step cleaning instructions from your hearing professional or the hearing aid manufacturer. These steps will differ depending on the model and type of your aid, such as whether your device is a behind-the-ear model or an in-the-ear model. Regular cleaning avoids earwax accumulating in the delicate parts of the hearing aid, which will impact its performance.
If you clean the aids at night before bed, they will have enough time to air out before you use them again the next day.
3. Keep your hearing aids dry.
Unless they’re waterproof, hearing aids don’t do well in environments such as showers, bathtubs, pools, spas, and the beach. It’s also a good idea to insert your hearing aids only after applying aerosols around your head, such as hairspray or perfumes, and after other lotions, creams, or gels that are applied near your ears.
4. Avoid leaving your hearing aids in extreme cold or heat.
Harsh weather conditions can damage your hearing aids. Avoid keeping them in your pocket while you traipse through the snow, or by the poolside on a 95 degree day. In these situations, it’s better to leave them indoors if you can (ideally in their protective case).
5. When not in use, keep your aids in their case.
Hearing aids are small and, face it, easily lost. If they’re not nestled in your ears, the best place for them is in their case or charging unit – somewhere that will hold and cherish them in a warm and secure embrace until they’re ready for your ears again.
6. Consider a hearing aid dehumidifier/dryer.
This is especially important if you live in a humid environment or are particularly prone to perspiration. Electronics don’t like moisture, so you may need a dehumidifier. This may be in the form of a container with a desiccant that absorbs moisture from the hearing aids, or a specialized unit that dries and sanitizes your aids using UV light and air.
The benefits of taking proper care of your hearing aids are significant. For one, they perform better – it’s hard to get good sound quality out of a hearing aid that’s plugged with earwax or dust. Hearing aids that are covered in grime may lead to irritation of the skin and potential ear infections. Particularly neglected hearing aids may fall into such disrepair that they require professional help, which can be costly. Regular cleaning and maintenance at home can help you to avoid these unnecessary costs for repairs.
The best idea is always to follow the care instructions for your hearing aids from your audiologist and the manufacturer.