Take Care of Your Hearing Aids

Woman putting on her hearing aid over the couch in case she drops it.

What would you do if your hearing aids stopped working at a time when you most needed them. Like when you’re in a crucial meeting.

Nobody wants that to happen! Your hearing aids are an important investment in your hearing, happiness, and general health. You will get the greatest possible advantage from your hearing aids if you keep them functioning at maximum condition.

You can properly care for your hearing aids and keep them working in peak condition by following these 7 tips.

1. Understand The Instructions

The most beneficial results will be accomplished when you make use of the manual that came with your hearing aids. These manuals normally include troubleshooting guides that will help you address many technical difficulties.

If something isn’t functioning correctly, always consult the manual first.

The manual should cover any problems related to the performance of your hearing aids. This is important even if you’ve had hearing aids before because your new devices might not work in the same manner. Obviously, hearing aid technology has advanced considerably in recent years.

2. Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean

Bacteria like to use hearing aids as a breeding ground.

While there’s always some harmless bacteria on your skin, if you don’t wash your hands or thoroughly clean the hearing aids, it can cause an infection.

Further hearing issues can be the consequence of an ear infection. Most are temporary, but some can cause permanent damage.

Bacteria prefer moist surfaces, so wipe each hearing aid with a dry cloth before and after every use. Never put your hearing aids in water. Disinfect them often with an alcohol-free wipe, being cautious not to get it too wet.

Once each week, clean the hearing aid and any custom mold pieces thoroughly.

Regularly cleaning your hearing aids will help prevent wax buildup on the earpiece.

3. Don’t Let Your Hearing Aids Get Wet

Getting wet is not something that most hearing aids are made to do. Even high humidity can damage them. After cleaning, don’t leave them on the nightstand.

Hearing aids will accumulate dust which has bacteria if they are left resting on an exposed surface.

Follow the recommendations of the manufacturer and store them in a cool dry place. Before you go into the shower or take a bath, make sure you take them out. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t leave them on the bathroom counter while getting ready.

Take an umbrella with you if it’s raining.

Always keep your charger with you because your battery may drain faster if the air has moisture.

Don’t allow your hearing aid to be exposed to extreme heat, like a blow dryer or sauna, because that can also damage them.

4. Keep The Battery Charged

Keep your battery charged and bring a backup when you go to a significant event.

When you take your hearing aids off to go to bed, turn them all the way off. Take out the batteries if you’re going to go for a long time without using your hearing aids. You’ll get more life out of the battery this way, and you’ll avoid the risk of battery acid damaging the hearing aid’s sensitive electronics.

You can substantially extend the life of your batteries with this advice but always carry a spare battery, just in case.

5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally

Anytime you’re inserting something in your ear, it will push a small amount of earwax into the canal. Voices will eventually begin to sound distorted as this earwax builds up. Make an appointment for a cleaning with your hearing professional if your hearing seems dull and muted.

With the right tools and know-how, it’s a simple procedure. It should only be conducted by a trained professional with the expertise to service and care for your hearing aids.

6. When You’re Putting in Your Hearing Aids, do it Above a Soft Surface

Taking the chance of dropping your hearing aid into the toilet or sink is really not worth it. Dropping and breaking your hearing aid becomes a substantial possibility in this scenario. Always insert your devices over a soft surface such as a bed, sofa, or a folded towel placed on a table or counter.

7. Talk to a Specialist if You’re Not Experiencing Better Hearing

If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aids, don’t discontinue wearing them. Your situation can be enhanced. Schedule an appointment to come see us for a hearing test.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.