Buying a hearing aid is an investment, and it should be maintained with care and protected from harmful substances.
Hearing aids can trap wax and debris that can cause malfunction or damage. Cleaning solutions and household items can create costly wear and tear to your devices. Some cleaners will actually deteriorate the surface of the earmold. Things to avoid:
- Alcohol wipes
- Household cleaners
- Chemicals of any kind
- Moisture or full submersion
- Safety pins, bobby pins, paper clips
The proper routine should be as follows:
- Wash your hands prior to caring for your hearing aids.
- Use a soft brush or toothbrush to clean the openings like the microphone.
- Avoid cleaning upward, so debris doesn’t fall into the device.
- Use a wax pick or wire loop to clear out crevices the brush couldn’t reach.
- Wipe your hearing aids down with a clean, dry cloth to clean the surface.
- Use a dehumidifier to absorb any moisture from the aids.
Consult the Hearing Institute of Ontario for hearing aid cleaning tools or if you suspect damage to your hearing aids.