Hearing aids are an effective and popular tool for millions of people with hearing loss. In fact, in 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that over 7% of adults aged 45 and older used hearing aids.
One of the most important things to know as a hearing aid user is how to clean your device properly. Not only does this keep your hearing aids working well for as long as possible, but it also helps prevent ear infections.
Why Cleaning Your Hearing Aids is Important for Ear Health
It’s important to wear your hearing aids consistently throughout your day before taking them off at night. While this will give you the best listening experience, it also means your hearing aids spend a large chunk of every day in a dark and moist environment, collecting earwax, dirt and bacteria.
Without properly cleaning your hearing aids, these bacteria can irritate your ear canal and lead to symptoms like ear pain, itchiness, redness and swelling, among other symptoms.
Additionally, moisture and earwax buildup on your device can cause your hearing aids to develop issues like muffled or poor sound quality or increased feedback. This means you won’t be able to hear your best while at work, at home or when enjoying a day out at Buckroe Beach.
Tips for Cleaning Your Hearing Aids
The good news is that by taking the right precautions and developing the proper cleaning routine, you can keep both your ears and your hearing aids safe.
- Establish good pre-cleaning habits. Before you clean your hearing aids, wash your hands with warm soap and water and dry them off with a clean towel.
- Make sure you have the right tools. In order to properly care for your hearing aids, consider getting a hearing aid cleaning kit that comes with tools like a wax pick and soft-bristled brush, in addition to things like a soft cloth and disinfectant wipes that are non-alcohol based, as alcohol can damage your device.
- Clean your hearing aids nightly. Cleaning your device before bedtime and then storing them in a cool, dry place as you sleep gives both your hearing aids a chance to air out before putting them back in again in the morning. Make cleaning your hearing aids a part of your regular nighttime routine, just like brushing your teeth, to get the best results.
To learn more about caring for your hearing aids or to find a pair that best meets your needs, call Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today and schedule an appointment with one of our experts.