How Should I Take Care of my Hearing Aid?

Woman putting on her hearing aid over the couch in case she drops it.

What would you do if your hearing aids quit working at a time when you most needed them. Like in the middle of a phone call?

That’s not something anyone wants! It’s important to invest in hearing aids for your hearing, your happiness, and your general health. You will get the greatest possible advantage from your hearing aids if you keep them working in peak condition.

The following are 7 steps to help you correctly care for your hearing aids and keep them working at peak condition.

1. Get to Know The Instruction Manual

Your hearing aids included an instruction manual describing how to maintain them to get the best results. Many technical problems you might be experiencing can be solved by the trouble-shooting guides that are in these manuals.

If something isn’t working properly, always consult the manual first.

Any problems associated with the performance of your hearing aid should be covered in the manual. Modern hearing aids work differently than the older models so even if you’ve had hearing aids before this is important. After all, there have been lots of advances in hearing aid technology in the last few years.

2. Clean Your Hearing Aids

Bacteria often use hearing aids as a breeding ground.

If you don’t clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you use them, an ear infection can be the result.

Ear infections can cause further hearing concerns. Most are temporary, but some can cause irreversible damage.

Bacteria favor damp surfaces, so wipe each hearing aid with a dry cloth before and after each use. Water can ruin your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Disinfect them regularly with an alcohol-free wipe, being mindful not to get it too wet.

Clean them thoroughly once a week, including any custom mold pieces.

Regularly cleaning your hearing aids will help stop wax buildup on the earpiece.

3. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry

Getting wet is not something that most hearing aids are made to do. They can even be damaged by high humidity. Don’t put them on the nightstand after cleaning.

Hearing aids lying on a surface in your house will collect dust that carries bacteria.

Stay within the recommendations of the manufacturer and store them in a cool dry place. Before you go into the shower or take a bath, make sure you take them out. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t leave them on the bathroom counter while getting ready.

When it rains, take an umbrella.

Always keep your charger with you because your battery may drain faster if there’s moisture in the air.

Heat can also cause damage to hearing aids, so don’t expose them to a blow dryer, sauna, or other extreme heat.

4. Keep The Battery Charged

Don’t get caught without a backup battery at your nephew’s concert.

Turn your hearing aids completely off before you go to sleep. Remove the batteries if you’re going to go for a long period without using your hearing aids. If you let your hearing aids sit for long time periods with the battery in them, the life of the battery can be decreased and their delicate electronics can be damaged by battery acid.

You can substantially prolong the life of your batteries with this guidance but always bring a spare battery, just in case.

5. Get a Hearing Professional to Clean Your Ears

A small amount of wax is pushed into your ear canal every time you put your hearing aid in. If this earwax is allowed to build up, it may eventually cause voices to sound muted. Schedule an appointment for a cleaning with your hearing specialist if your hearing seems dull and muted.

The removal procedure is simple with the right tools. An expert in hearing should be the only person who conducts this procedure.

6. When You’re Inserting Your Hearing Aids, do it Above a Soft Surface

Taking the risk of dropping your hearing aid into the sink or toilet is really not worth it. This can easily lead to dropping the hearing aid and damaging it. Always put in your devices over a soft surface such as a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on the kitchen table.

7. If You’re Not Experiencing Improved Hearing, Contact a Specialist

If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aids, don’t discontinue wearing them. Your situation can be improved. Make an appointment to come see us for an exam.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.