To ensure your hearing aids last for as long as possible, it is essential to look after them properly. Over time, these small devices accumulate dust, moisture and earwax, which can affect their performance. Cleaning is a key part of maintenance, helping to maintain optimal sound quality and extend the lifespan of your hearing aids. In this article, we’ll explain how to clean your hearing aids in 10 steps.
Why is it important to clean hearing aids?
Cleaning your hearing aid is crucial. Firstly, it helps to ensure that the hearing aids continue to function optimally:
- Maintaining sound quality: Dust, earwax and other impurities in the ear can block the microphones and receivers of the devices.
- Extended product lifespan: Removing dirt and moisture helps to reduce wear and tear on the product.
- Fit and comfort: The shape of the earbuds can be affected by a build-up of dirt, so cleaning them helps to maintain the fit and ensure optimum comfort.
- User experience: A clean hearing aid ensures that the wearer can use it smoothly, without interference or unwanted noise caused by blockages.
Furthermore, cleaning your hearing aid helps to maintain good ear hygiene and prevents ear infections.
How often should you clean your hearing aid?
How often you should clean your hearing aids depends on the type of hearing aid, how often you use them and the environment in which they are used. However, the recommendations set out below are suitable for virtually all situations.
We recommend cleaning the device daily, which involves wiping the surface to remove dust, moisture and earwax, as well as checking the ear tips and microphones to ensure they are not blocked.
It is also important to carry out a more thorough weekly clean using special tools to clean the ear tips, vents and wax filters, which are fitted to some devices and need to be replaced.
Check your hearing aid every month for cracks, build-up of dirt or any signs of wear and tear. Finally, Audition Bahuaud recommends that you have your hearing aid checked by a hearing care professional once or twice a year. As professionals, we have advanced equipment and techniques to access hard-to-reach areas. Please see the list of our hearing centres to arrange a hearing aid cleaning appointment.
What products should I use to clean my hearing aids?
Cleaning hearing aids requires the use of high-quality products and great care to ensure the devices are not damaged. We have compiled a non-exhaustive list of products you can use to clean your hearing aids safely and effectively.
Alcohol-free disinfectant wipes or alcohol-free cleaning sprays eliminate bacteria without damaging delicate materials. Convenient for everyday use, these products are gentle on surfaces.
A soft, dry microfibre cloth can be used to wipe down the device every day without scratching the surfaces. You can also use a microfibre cloth together with the alcohol-free cleaning spray to disinfect the device without risk of corrosion.
To remove damp and sweat, you can use dehumidifying tablets.
The air blower allows you to remove dust and earwax without coming into direct contact with the earpieces and tubes. The cleaning wire or brush for earpieces are effective tools for reaching the most difficult-to-access areas and removing residue. Discover our range of hearing aid cleaning products at Audition Bahuaud.
How do you clean the filter on a hearing aid?
The wax filter in a hearing aid can be cleaned, although it is generally recommended that it be replaced frequently. To clean it, you can use water, a disinfectant and a brush, or an ultrasonic cleaner. It is best to replace the wax filter every 4 to 8 weeks.
How do you clean the microphone on a hearing aid?
To clean the microphone on your hearing aid, you must first switch off the device and use a soft, clean brush to remove any particles, holding the device firmly upside down so that the particles fall to the floor. You can then use an air blower for more stubborn debris. Under no circumstances should you use any liquid on your microphone, as this may damage it.
Steps for cleaning a hearing aid
Here are the steps for cleaning a hearing aid:
- Switch off the appliance
- Wipe the surface with a soft, clean cloth
- Clean the mouthpiece with a wipe or an alcohol-free disinfectant spray
- Use an air bulb to clear any residue from the tube (for behind-the-ear models)
- Gently brush the microphones and vents
Cleaning hearing aids: mistakes to avoid
There are a number of precautions to take when cleaning your hearing aid. You should avoid using liquids and products containing alcohol, as these may damage the electronic components. You should also avoid using sharp objects, as these may puncture the sensitive components. You should also avoid cleaning your hearing aid in a damp environment. Finally, do not neglect to clean the wax filters.
Of course, make sure your device is switched off before each clean to avoid short circuits.
When should you call in a professional cleaner?
To have your hearing aid cleaned, see a professional every 3 to 6 months or in the following situations: if you notice any damage to your hearing aid, a reduction in sound quality, or a build-up of earwax on your device that you are unable to clean yourself. Book an appointment here for a hearing aid clean at Audition Bahuaud.
Where can I find a hearing aid cleaning kit?
The hearing aid cleaning kit can be purchased from your hearing care professional. Find out where to buy from Audition Bahuaud. The kits are also available in pharmacies, medical supply shops and specialist online shops.
Looking after your hearing aid properly
Looking after your hearing aid properly therefore requires regular cleaning by the user, as well as by a hearing care professional once or twice a year. It is essential to use gentle, high-quality products; we recommend the hearing aid cleaning kit, which is specially designed for this purpose. At the slightest sign of a drop in performance or a fault with your hearing aid, do not hesitate to consult your hearing care professional. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your hearing aid.
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