Hearing aids are a hefty investment – in both time and money – and they’re also important, which is why you should take good care of them. Properly cleaning your hearing devices regularly will both extend their lifespan and also provide the best listening experience for you. Below we’ve overviewed how to keep your hearing aids clean and cared for.
Hearing Aid Cleaning Tools
Like with any job, it’s important to have the right tools. For cleaning hearing aids, these include:
- Wax removal brush
- Soft, clean and dry cloth
- Wax pick/wire loop
- Vent cleaner
These tools can be purchased separately or as a multitool. You can find them at the drugstore or at your audiologist’s office.
All Models
All models of hearing aids require you to…
- Turn the hearing aids upside down so debris falls out rather than into cleaning ports and other openings.
- Open the battery door at night to extend the life of the battery and allow moisture to evaporate.
- Brush the battery compartment clean when changing the battery.
In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aid
To clean your ITE device…
- Turn the hearing aids upside down so debris falls out rather than into cleaning ports and other openings.
- Open the battery door at night to extend the life of the battery and allow moisture to evaporate.
- Brush the battery compartment clean when changing the battery.
In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aid
To clean your ITC device…
- Brush the microphone cover, receiver and vent openings to remove debris.
- Use the wax pick/wire loop to remove stubborn wax from the air vent.
- Run a vent cleaner through the opening in each direction.
- Wipe down the entire device with a soft cloth.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aid
To clean your BTE device…
- Brush the hearing aids clean.
- Remove the earmold, brush it, and use the wax pick/wire loop to remove debris.
- Wipe down the hearing aid and earmold with a soft cloth.
- Wash the earmold with soap and warm water as needed, and let it dry completely before reattaching.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aid
To clean your RIC device…
- Brush the hearing aids clean.
- Use your thumbs to massage debris out of the dome tip.
- Wipe down the hearing aid with a soft cloth.
- Replace the dome as needed.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with an audiologist, call Hearing Center of Lake Charles today!