Care Tips to Avoid Hearing Aid Repairs

Taking good care of your hearing aids is important for making the most of your hearing if you have hearing loss. Proper maintenance can help prevent unnecessary damage, reduce the need for repairs, and extend the lifespan of your devices. It’s good practice to learn how to clean your hearing aids to keep them in optimal condition. Here are a few tips to avoid hearing aid repairs.

What Basic Components Require Frequent Care?

There are a variety of hearing aids available, depending on every individual’s unique needs. However, most hearing aids are made up of three basic components that require frequent care to prevent the necessity for repair, a shell, receiver and a microphone.

How Do You Clean the Shell?

The shell of a hearing aid is the hard outer case of the hearing aid. If wax or small dirt particles build up on the surface, that residue can affect how the hearing aid fits and feels in your ear, leading to a poor fit. Begin cleaning the shell by selecting a lint-free cloth. Gently wet it and wring out any excess moisture while ensuring you do not drip any water onto the hearing aid. Lightly wipe the entire surface of the hard shell. If there is any stubborn dirt or earwax, use the included brush to carefully brush it off.

What are the Best Practices for Cleaning the Receiver?

A receiver is a critical component within the hearing aid as it channels sounds directly from the speaker to your inner ear. Unfortunately, this small component frequently succumbs to wax buildup. Make cleaning the receiver a daily priority. Create a new habit by cleaning it either when you get ready in the morning or before bed. Use the included brush and wax pick to carefully brush the opening. Gently insert the wax pick into the opening of the receiver to pull out compacted wax. If you are not sure how to clean the receiver in your hearing aid, talk with your audiologist, and they will help and show you how to clean it.

How Do You Keep the Microphone Clean?

The microphone is one of the most delicate components of a hearing aid, so it needs to be handled carefully to maintain its function. It plays a crucial role in helping you hear sounds clearly. When cleaning the microphone, begin by turning the hearing aid upside down to prevent debris from falling into the microphone. Use the provided brush and gently sweep to remove any buildup. Be sure to avoid pressing the bristles into the microphone’s mesh or port to prevent damage.

Contact Your Audiologist Today

When you need professional care for your hearing aids, contact your audiologist to help you. They will use their years of experience to ensure you have properly fitted and functional hearing aids. From teaching you how to care for and clean your hearing aids to providing hearing aid repairs. If you want to learn more about how to avoid hearing aid repairs, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.