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Hearing Aid Care 101

Hearing Aid Care 101

By: Audiologist, Angie Lederman, MS, CCC-A

Your hearing aids help keep you connected to the people and sounds that matter the most. Just like other devices used daily, they require a little upkeep and maintenance so they can continue to work their best. A few simple habits can help improve sound quality, prevent common issues, and extend the life of your hearing aids.

Why Hearing Aid Care is Important

Hearing aids are exposed to earwax, moisture, dust, and oils from your skin on a daily basis. These substances can build up over time and affect how well they work.

Regular cleaning can help:

  • Keep sounds clear
  • Prevent wax blockages
  • Reduce issues from moisture
  • Extend the life of your devices

3 Parts of Hearing Aids to Clean

Shell – This can collect dirt, dust, and oils which affect performance and comfortability. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth every day and avoid harsh cleaners.

Microphone – This delicate part picks up the sounds around you. Gently brush the microphone opening to clean out dirt or wax.

Receiver – Wax build up in the receiver, which sends the sounds to your ear, is one of the most common causes of hearing aid issues. Carefully use the brush or wax removal tool that came with your hearing aids. Replace wax filters when necessary.

Daily Maintenance

  • Check for wax, dirt, and moisture.
  • Gently wipe the outside of your devices with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Store your hearing aids in a clean, dry place.

Weekly Maintenance

Once a week, spend a few extra minutes on a deeper level of hearing aid care.

  • Inspect for damage.
  • Check battery contacts for corrosion.
  • Clean removable parts according to your manufacturer's instructions.
  • Test to make sure everything is working properly.

What Not To Do

Avoid these common mistakes to help protect your hearing aids.

  • Don't forget to take your hearing aids out before you shower or swim.
  • Do not use a hair dryer to dry them.
  • Do not use sharp objects to remove wax.
  • Do not use harsh chemicals or cleaners on your devices.
  • Do not hesitate to call a professional when necessary!

We Are Here To Help

Sometimes, your hearing aids may not sound right, even after cleaning. These advanced pieces of technology have many components that require regular maintenance, and oftentimes the expertise of a professional is needed. If your hearing aids sound muffled, cut in or out, feel uncomfortable, or you notice damage – call us! We are here to help keep your hearing aids performing their best so you can enjoy better sound quality, greater comfort, and fewer issues to extend their life.

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