Spring Into Summer with Clean Hearing Aids

Cheryl Kinney, Au.D.

April 29, 2021

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Audiology

Have you ever thought about cleaning your hearing aids? Regular clean and checks are the best way to preserve your important investment.

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your hearing aids, and is a must considering the conditions they are exposed to on a regular basis. Moisture, heat, earwax and dirt can all damage electronic components unless cleaned properly.

Most hearing health care providers sell a multi-tool, a versatile cleaning tool that consists of a wire loop, magnet and brush. This is useful for removing wax and dirt from hard-to-reach nooks and crannies in your hearing aids, and the magnet aids in battery removal. If a multi-tool is not available, you can usually buy each component separately.

There are steps you can take at home to care for your hearing devices and optimize their effectiveness. Try the following cleaning tips this summer!

• Be sure to apply hairspray and facial lotions before inserting your hearing aids. The same applies to face washing. Harsh products create a sticky residue that is a magnet for dust and dirt.
• Wash and dry your hands before you handle your hearing devices.
• It’s important to clean your hearing devices over a soft surface (a folded towel, for example) to prevent damage if dropped.
• Clean your hearing devices each day with a dry, soft cloth.
• Do not use water, cleaning fluids, solvents or alcohol, as they can damage your hearing devices.
• Don’t overlook the microphone inlet, which can become clogged with debris, and the battery contacts, which attract dust and dirt.
• Storage containers will help minimize moisture in your hearing devices and lengthen their life. Remove the batteries from your device before placing them in the containers.
• Perform listening checks with a listening tube to ensure your hearing devices sound clear, not weak or scratchy. If you notice any changes in quality, make an appointment with your audiology clinic.
• Do not attempt to make any adjustments or repairs to your hearing device by yourself.
• Maintain good hygiene by keeping your ears clean. Do not use a cotton swab or bobby pin in your ears. Instead, purchase over-the-counter eardrops to flush out debris.

While these home steps can help, the best way to ensure your devices are working properly is to take them into an audiology clinic for a clean and check. This service costs a nominal fee and will include a complete inspection of your hearing devices. The receivers, microphones, volume control buttons and battery doors will all be inspected and cleaned. Your hearing devices will also be tested to make sure they are performing to standards.