The Do’s and Don’ts of Caring for Hearing Aids

Maintaining hearing aids properly doesn’t have to be difficult, although it does require some consistency. These devices might be small, but they’re also powerful and make a major difference in communication. So, they need to be taken care of. 

Unfortunately, some might end up making some mistakes that shorten the lifespan and worsen the performance of their hearing aids. With proper maintenance, these devices can work without a hitch for years. In this guide, we cover the dos and don’ts for proper hearing aid care. 

Keep Hearing Aids Dry at All Times

Moisture and hearing aids shouldn’t be mixed. Even if some of the latest devices can handle some humidity, they aren’t designed to be waterproof. Once they are exposed to water, it leads to corrosion, crackling sounds, or complete damage. Also, don’t wear hearing aids when showering, swimming, or sweating heavily. 

Before contacting water, remove your hearing aids and then keep them in a dry place. It’s also a good idea to use cases with dehumidifiers and drying features. By keeping them dry, the device will last longer without needing regular repairs. 

Avoid Using Hairspray or Other Products While Wearing Them

When wearing hearing aids, avoid using hair products like sprays or gels, even if it’s dry shampoo. It might seem like nothing, but they can enter the microphone or vent of the hearing aid and make all sounds muffled. So, before applying products on the face or hair, remove the hearing aids and keep them somewhere safe. 

What’s more, wait a bit for the hair or skin product to settle before wearing the device again. After a short while, one can get used to this habit and protect their hearing aids from being blocked.

Store Hearing Aids Safely When Not in Use

If a person wants their hearing aids to last for a long time, they need to focus on proper storage. Leaving them on the bedside table or in a bag without a case can cause them to get damaged. Instead, keep them in the case that they came in or another sturdy and dry one.

The case protects them from dust, impact, kids, and pets. If the hearing aids are powered by batteries, it’s a good idea to open the battery door overnight, as this reduces moisture buildup inside the device. Thoughtful storage doesn’t take effort, but most people ignore this. With the right storage, there will be no unexpected problems. 

Clean Them Gently but Regularly

Hearing aids, like other devices we wear near our bodies, attract wax, oil, and dirt. As a result, it is important that they be cleaned frequently; although this is not a difficult task, it still requires great care. Use a soft, dry towel and a brush to clean the devices. Cleaning wipes, water, and alcohol not designed for devices should not be used.

While cleaning, remove dirt from the earpiece tips and microphone openings. To avoid sound distortion or muffled sounds, clean them daily. Cleaning regularly is the most important thing to do because it prevents frequent repairs and keeps devices reliable. 

Handle with Clean Hands and a Soft Surface Nearby

Hearing aids are designed to be durable, but they also have to be taken care of. Avoid touching them with wet, oily, or dirty hands, as this prevents moisture from seeping into the device. When changing batteries or putting them in the ears, do so while sitting at a table or counter with a soft towel under you.

So, if it falls down by mistake when cleaning, there’s a soft surface to land on. A hearing aid falling down can end up cracked or damaged. The thing is, slip-ups can always happen, so the best thing is to follow a safe routine instead. 

Schedule Checkups with a Hearing Health Professional

Even with the best at-home care, regular checkups make a big difference. But when it comes to deep cleaning, software updates, and fine-tuning, it’s best to contact a hearing health professional. These appointments are an opportunity to catch any issues before they become a major problem. 

They also offer the chance to ask questions and get the right advice on the right hearing aids to use. Just like going to the dentist or car service, it’s best to visit the hearing health professional regularly.