Most hearing aids are very durable and can offer many years of service with the help of some simple cleaning and maintenance tips.
There are a few things to keep in mind when caring for your hearing aids.
1. Always make sure your hands and fingers are clean and dry when handling your hearing aids.
2. Water and solvent cleaning agents can damage the computer circuitry. You can use a specific cleaning agent, like Audiologist’s Choice spray to help clean ear molds and ear buds. When using the spray, make sure you spray a cloth first and then wipe the hearing aid. Never spray your hearing aids directly when any liquid.
3. It’s important that you clean your hearing aids daily to help improve their performance and prevent repairs. It’s always best to use a soft, dry cloth to clean your hearing aid and/or a brush to remove wax buildup. You should brush your hearing aids morning and night to help maintain them.
4. Most repairs are due to wax or body oil buildup. Hearing aid dryers are helpful at drying wax and oil so they can easily be removed with a brush.
5. Hearing aids, like most people, don’t like extreme temperatures. Don’t leave your hearing aids in direct sunlight.
6. You should do your best to prevent moisture from getting into your hearing aids. It’s best to avoid saunas, steam baths, vaporizers or showers when wearing your hearing aids. Do your best to protect your hearing aids during rain and snow, although most new models are water resistant. If your hearing aids do get wet, remove the batteries, open the battery door and place them in a hearing aid dryer or leave them in the air to dry at room temperature. Never use a hair dryer or oven to “dry” hearing aids.
7. If you see wax buildup inside an opening in your hearing aid or ear mold it’s best to bring it into the office for a professional cleaning. Don’t risk damaging your hearing aid by sticking an object into your hearing aid. Always use just a soft cloth or brush to remove debris.
8. Earmold tubing can harden and discolor with age. When this occurs, the tubing can be changed in the office. Please call us at 480-497-0780 to ensure the appropriate staff is available to assist you.
9. It’s also best to avoid contact with hair spray or make up. The fine particles and easily cause debris to build up and cause the hearing aid to malfunction. Try to remove your hearing aids before using any personal care items.
Your hearing aids should be professionally cleaned and your programming checked every 3 to 6 months to ensure optimal performance. If you’re interested in purchasing a hearing aid dryer, they retail for $49 and are available during normal business hours. Audiologist’s Choice spray retails for $8 a bottle.
If the volume drops and you’ve changed the batteries, make sure you contact our office for a professional cleaning and an appointment with Dr. Jessee, if needed. Your hearing is important and we want you to hearing as well as you can with your hearing aids.
