Hearing aids are simple devices designed to improve hearing and communication in individuals with hearing loss. Hearing aids require proper cleaning and drying to work effectively, which according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, should be done daily. If you think you need a hearing aid, you can take hearing tests Marrickville before deciding to get one.
Hearing aids will malfunction if filled with earwax found in your ear canal where the hearing aids work. Also, dust, moisture, and sweat can clog up the microphone and damage the volume control of your tiny yet significant device.
To ensure that your hearing aids work in top form, they must be thoroughly cleaned, dried, and correctly charged daily.
Cleaning tips for your hearing aids
Necessary tools for cleaning your hearing aids are; Cleaning brushes, ventilation cleaner, wax guard, soft cleaning cloth, drying accessories, and ear wax pick.
General tips for cleaning and maintaining your hearing aids according to the FDA
- Using water, alcohol, or other solvents to clean the device can cause internal damage, so avoid it.
- Keep your hearing aids on only when in use.
- Regularly replace dead battery
- Avoid heat, dust, and hair products when using your hearing aid.
How to clean different hearing aids.
Hearing aids differ, and so do their cleaning techniques. Here is how to clean the most common hearing aids
In-the-canal ( ITC) and in-the-ear ( ITE ) hearing aids
- Ensure the device is off
- Brush the vent opening, microphone port, and receiver tube.
- Pick the remaining was with wax pick
- Wipe the body of the device with a soft and clean cloth
Receiver-in-Canal ( RIC) hearing aids
- Brush the hearing device to get rid of debris
- Massage or rub the dome to remove hard foreign material.
- Wipe down the hearing aid with the clean, dry cloth provided for the purpose.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Detach the earmold from the hearing aid
- Soak the earmold in warm water
- Wipe off the debris on the hearing aid
- Remove the built-up debris in the vents and openings of your hearing aid.
- Dry earmold and tubing overnight or in your dry box if available.
Drying your hearing aids
Drying your hearing aids is as important as cleaning them. There are different options when it comes to drying your hearing aids. A few of them are listed below
- Use a drying container, newspaper, or warm paper towel.
- Use a hairdryer or fan, however, be careful not to let your device be too hot.
- Rice or silica gel can work as a desiccant
How to charge your hearing device
How often you use your device will determine how often you need to charge your hearing aid. To charge your hearing aids, place or plug your hearing aid in the charging dock and leave it for some time.
It is important to ensure that your hearing aid is dry before charging it, as that can damage the internal circuit. Many dry boxes double as charge stations.
Daily maintenance of your hearing aids will make them durable and serve you better. It is vital to allow a professional audiologist to inspect your hearing aid thrice a year.