If you don't know how to clean your hearing aid and are afraid of damaging it, you're not alone. That's why we've created a helpful guide to answer your questions and assist you with cleaning your hearing aid safely.
How Often Should You Clean a Hearing Aid?
Your hearing aids should be checked and cleaned by an audiologist every 4-6 months or so. Of course, these aren't the only times they should be cleaned. Hearing aid devices should be wiped down every day. This can prevent them from getting clogged by debris, dust, and ear wax. The cleaning doesn't have to be too intense, but wiping them down in the way described below will help their cleanliness, effectiveness, and longevity.
How to Clean Every Part of Your Hearing Aid
There are different types of hearing aids out there, but every model should have a shell, a receiver, and a microphone. Each of these parts will need to be cleaned a certain way, with the method varying depending on the hearing aid model.
- Cleaning the Shell - The shell is the largest part of your hearing aid, the outside piece. To clean it, you can wipe it down with a tissue or a dry cloth or use a brush if you've been provided one.
- Cleaning the Receiver - The receiver is what carries the sound from the speaker to your ear. Cleaning the receiver daily is key to maintaining the device, as ear wax buildup in the receiver can cause hearing aid failure. Carefully clean the receiver with your brush to remove buildup. You can also use a wax pick to remove any wax in the receiver opening.
- Cleaning the Microphone - The microphone is more delicate than the other parts and should be cleaned carefully. When cleaning the microphone, turn the hearing aid upside down. This will help remove any debris. With a brush, gently clean the microphone port. Be careful not to poke anything into the microphone port, as this could cause damage.
More Tips for Cleaning Your Hearing Aid
If you want your hearing aid to be clean and remain in good working order for as long as possible, follow these hearing aid maintenance tips:
- Make sure your hands are clean and dry before cleaning your hearing aid.
- Keep your ears clean to prevent ear wax from clogging your hearing aids. Clean with a washcloth rather than Q-tips.
- Don't get cosmetic products like make-up into your hearing aids. Use these items before inserting your hearing aids.
- Put down a cloth when cleaning your hearing aid to protect your device in case it's accidentally dropped.
Ask Your Audiologist About Your Hearing Aids
There are many types of hearing aid devices out there. Ask your audiologist about your device to ensure you're cleaning it safely and effectively.
If you don't wear a hearing aid but suffer from hearing loss,
call a Connect Hearing audiologist to make an appointment. After an assessment and a hearing test, you'll learn about your overall hearing health and see which solutions are best for you.