How to Properly Clean and Store Your Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are essential devices purposely designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals with varied levels of auditory loss. The working components of these devices are deeply encased in the shell. Although this already gives some protection, you must do more to keep them safe. You can ensure their longevity and optimal performance by committing to a proper cleaning routine and storage. Indeed, regular maintenance extends your hearing aids’ lifespan by avoiding damage to the internal parts. Here are some great insights into properly cleaning and storing your hearing aids.

Adopt a Daily Cleaning Routine

You must clean your hearing aids daily because you wear them every day. Before cleaning the devices, washing your hands to remove dirt or oils is vital. You will be surprised to discover that dirt and oil from your hands could seep into the internal components of the hearing aids and cause damage. Once your hands are clean and dry, use a soft moisture-free cloth to wipe the outer parts of the device. Sometimes, an audiologist will provide you with a specialized cleaning tool to gently wipe debris or traces of earwax from your hearing aids.

You may be tempted to use water or other cleaning agents for your device, but that is not advisable. Anything other than what your audiologist has instructed or directed could cause irreparable damage to your hearing devices. Inspecting the device’s earmolds or domes for signs of wax accumulation is necessary. Debris and accumulated wax can cause clogging and reduce the lifespan of your hearing aids.

Practice Proper Moisture Management

Moisture can severely damage hearing aids and is one of the leading causes of device malfunctions, making it essential to learn all you can about it. Indeed, it is tempting to think that because the crucial components are embedded within the device, there is no cause for alarm. On the contrary, moisture can seep into the tiniest of crevices, making it important to be wary of how you use your hearing aids. Learn more about the hearing aid dehumidifier, which protects your auditory device from moisture damage. In place of that, a drying kit can work just fine.

These devices are crucial in removing moisture to keep the hearing aids dry overnight.

Additionally, open the battery doors to allow air circulation when the devices are not in use. Ventilation is vital here to prevent moisture buildup. Whenever you can, remember to avoid exposing your hearing aids to excessive humidity. For example, wearing them in the shower or swimming pool is not advisable.

In another breath, when you find yourself in a humid climate, it would help to invest in a hearing aid sleeve or sweatband to provide additional protection. Your hearing aids’ functionality and longevity depend on the measures to prevent water damage.

Be Mindful of Your Hearing Aids’ Storage

On those days you don’t wear your hearing aids, avoid placing them unprotected on any surface. The best practice is to find a sturdy storage case or container specifically designed for hearing aids. The case will offer protection from falls, exposure to foreign substances and damage in general. If you have a lampstand close to your bed, it would be best not to place your hearing aids close to it. Lamps emit heat, and direct exposure could compromise device function.

Remember that the internal components of your hearing aids are electronic and, therefore, susceptible to harsh elements. With that out of the way, remember to store your hearing device in a place inaccessible to young children and pets, as they could easily see them as toys and damage them. A locked drawer in the bedroom or somewhere safe in the house would be ideal.

Commit to Professional Inspections

Hearing aids are medical devices, and as you’d expect of such tools, they need regular inspections. That is something you should trust the audiologist to carry out. They have the expertise to assess your hearing aids to ensure they are still in optimal health. The audiologist will check for cracks or broken components and address any concerns you may have about your hearing aids.

More importantly, an audiologist’s specialized training comes to bear when deep cleaning is required. The audiologist will perform the required adjustments at these appointments and advice on ongoing care. Although you have some knowledge of how to use your hearing aids, it is important to avoid do-it-yourself repairs. It’s best to leave that to the professionals who will maximize your device’s lifespan and performance.

To learn more about Affordable Audiology & Hearing Service, a trusted provider of audiology services, call us at (920) 267-5220 or visit the website. Our dedicated audiologists are ready to assist you with all your hearing needs.