Hearing Aid Maintenance and Care - Tips from our experts
How to Keep Your Devices in Top Condition
Hearing aids are incredibly reliable when properly cared for, but like any device, they need a little maintenance to keep performing at their best. Whether you’re new to hearing aids or a seasoned user, it’s important to follow some simple steps to ensure your devices stay in top condition for years to come. Here’s a quick guide to help you get the most out of your hearing aids.
Daily Cleaning: A Little Goes a Long Way
The most basic step in hearing aid maintenance is keeping them clean. Dust, earwax, and moisture can all affect your hearing aids' performance, so it’s essential to wipe them down every day. Use a soft, dry cloth or a special hearing aid cleaning brush to gently remove any debris. Avoid using water or cleaning fluids, as moisture can damage the delicate components.
Regular Battery Care
If you’re using disposable batteries, it’s vital to replace them regularly to ensure your hearing aids always perform at their best. Battery life can vary depending on usage, but as a general rule, change them every few days or when you notice your hearing aids becoming quieter. Be sure to store spare batteries in a cool, dry place, away from heat or humidity, which can shorten their life.
For rechargeable models, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on charging and avoid overcharging, as this can impact the longevity of the battery. Most rechargeable hearing aids come with a charging station, so it’s worth getting into the habit of charging them overnight.
Protect from Moisture
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to hearing aids. Whether it’s sweat, rain, or just humidity, moisture can damage the internal components and lead to malfunctions. To protect your devices, consider investing in a hearing aid dehumidifier, which is a small container that helps absorb any excess moisture overnight.
If you live in a particularly damp area, you may also want to use moisture-resistant hearing aids or consider using small moisture-reducing packets in your hearing aid case.
Check the Wax Guard
Earwax is a natural part of your body’s defence system, but when it accumulates in your hearing aids, it can cause blockages and reduce sound quality. Most hearing aids come with a wax guard or filter to keep earwax from getting into the device. Regularly check and replace these filters to ensure your hearing aids stay clean and functional. It’s a quick task but can make a big difference in sound clarity.
Proper Storage
When you’re not using your hearing aids, make sure to store them safely. Always remove the batteries when you’re not wearing your hearing aids for an extended period — this helps prevent any accidental leaks or corrosion. Store them in a safe, dry place, ideally in a case, to protect them from dust and damage.
Visit Your Audiologist Regularly
Even with all the at-home care, it’s a good idea to visit your audiologist for a professional check-up now and then. They can clean your devices more thoroughly, check the settings, and make sure your hearing aids are performing at their best. Regular maintenance ensures any small issues are caught early before they become bigger problems.
Conclusion
Looking after your hearing aids doesn’t require much time, but the effort you put into maintaining them will pay off in the long run. A little daily care, battery maintenance, and protection from moisture can help keep your devices in top condition, ensuring you get the most out of them for years to come. Keep these simple tips in mind, and you’ll be enjoying clear, crisp sound every day.
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