How to Care for Your Hearing Aids

When you are fitted with hearing aids, your audiologist will provide you with care tips as hearing aids can be expensive to replace. Without proper care, debris, and moisture can cause your hearing aids to deteriorate and malfunction. When you purchase your hearing aids, be sure to follow your audiologist’s guidelines for clearing to maintain your hearing aids to keep them in top-performing shape. Following a quality care plan for your hearing aids will extend their life and keep them working for 4-7 years.

8 essential steps to extend the life of your hearing aids

Step 1 Clean

Cleaning hearing aid keeps them free of ear wax, debris, and dirt. Clean hearing aids as instructed to keep you problem free. Be sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly prior to following your care and cleaning instructions. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean your hearing aids. Never clean them with water or cleaning solutions as this can damage them. Don’t try to clean the inside of your hearing aid, but every once in a while clean the battery compartment. Keeping your hearing aids clean can keep noise feedback to a minimum and overall performance at top levels.

Step 2 Avoid hairspray 

Avoid hairspray, makeup, and blow dryers while wearing your hearing aids. Hairspray and makeup can gum up your hearing devices and damage internal components.  A blow dryer can cause heat damage. Make sure to remove your hearing aids before you apply hairspray. Place your hearing aids in their container to ensure the spray doesn’t accidentally settle on them. Only return your hearing aids to your ears once you are sure your hair is dry. Hair spray is extremely difficult to remove from hearing aids.

Step 3 Turn off hearing aids when not in use

Power off hearing aids when not in use extends the battery life. Be sure to open the battery door if required to keep moisture from building up. The smaller the battery, the more frequently you will need to replace them. However, if you have digital batteries, make sure they are clean before placing them in the charging station. If you can’t place them in their charging station, be sure to store them safely away from metal objects.

 Make sure to follow all charging instructions carefully. Hearing aids have different battery types. Make sure you understand how to care for the battery in your hearing aids to extend the battery’s life.

Step 4 Keep away from heat and moisture

Keep your hearing aids away from moisture and heat. Hearing aids are tiny but powerful technological devices. Exposure to excess moisture can cause additional damage. Be certain to remove your hearing aids from swimming, showering, or even going out in the rain. Be aware that humidity can cause additional damage and purchasing a dehumidifier can help in humid climates. Store your hearing aids in a safe place so they don’t get misplaced or dropped while you are working out or caring for them in a moisture-dense environment.

Step 5 Replace dead batteries

Replace dead batteries immediately. Most hearing aids will emit a beeping sound when the battery runs low. Be prepared to replace your batteries when this signal occurs. The best way to do this is to plan ahead and always have extra batteries in an easy-to-grab designated spot.

Step 6 Hearing Aid Storage

Store your hearing aids and replacement batteries in a secure location away from pets and small children. Children and pets are often curious about the world around them. They can easily find themselves in trouble if they decide to eat a stray battery and accidentally swallow it. These tiny little batteries are made of lithium and can cause damage to the esophagus. Keeping them in a secure place will ensure everyone is safe. If you suspect a child or a pet has swallowed a battery, please get emergency care immediately.

 Step 7 Check in with your audiologist

See your audiologist every few months for a hearing aid check-up. You should check your hearing aids every day for cracks or unusual wear and tear. Inspect the microphone and sound for debris. If your hearing aids aren’t working to your satisfaction, don’t try to repair them yourself. Repairs and parts replacements should be taken care of by professionals. Have your hearing aids checked by your audiologist. They can make the necessary adjustments and repairs to ensure you are hearing your best.

Step 8 Call Hearing Associates of Las Vegas with questions you may have.

 Our friendly and well-trained staff will be happy to assist you. Hearing Associates of Las Vegas provides on-site repairs, hearing aid supplies/accessories, and hearing aid cleaning for all patients.https://hearingassociateslv.com/hearing-aid-styles/