As Spring approaches, you might be thinking about getting a bit of spring cleaning done around the house; cleaning the windows, sorting the garden for Summer or maybe even a bit of decorating! As you go about your spring cleaning, it might be a good reminder to give your hearing aids a thorough deep clean.
Routine is key
To keep your hearing aids in excellent working order, you will need to clean them regularly; if you get into a routine of doing this from the beginning, you won’t forget. Your hearing aids will most likely come with some form of cleaning tool / kit, but if not, there are lots of alternatives available on the high street and online. You can ask your Audiologist what they recommend and they may have a kit you can purchase directly from them. A hearing aid cleaning kit typically contains small brushes that allow you to clean your aids effectively. There are often also dry cloths and some special tools / magnets to assist with removing the battery, if required.
How to clean your aids
The best thing to do first is to give your hearing aids a visual inspection. You will then be able to see clearly the areas that need cleaning as well as decide which tools / brushes you require to remove the dirt / debris. You should begin by using a soft cloth to clean your aids gently; do not ever use water or place your aids in water as this could ruin them. One you have wiped them over, you can begin to use the small brushes and tools to dislodge any earwax that may have built up. Once your hearing aids are clean, you can assess whether you need to change the wax filters and domes (if applicable). It is advisable to change these at least once a month to ensure they aren’t clogged up with earwax and affecting your hearing.
During your holidays
A few other things to remember are that your hearing aids are not particularly well suited to spending a lot of time in high temperatures and are definitely not well suited at all to wet environments. If you are taking a well deserved break somewhere lovely and hot this holiday season, you’ll need to remember to take extra care that your aids are not out in the blazing sun all day. It goes without saying that if you are off for a dip in the pool or sea, your aids MUST be removed first!
Please do remember that your hearing aids need regular cleaning and shouldn’t just be done once a year as a spring clean! If you need any further advice, or are interested in purchasing hearing aids, please get in touch.
