The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders reports that around 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids. If you’re among this group and you own a hearing aid, you probably want to know how you can extend its lifespan. We review how below.
Clean Your Hearing Aids Every Day
Daily cleanings are essential both for the quality of daily hearing and the overall lifespan of your hearing aid. This process is quick and easy – it should only take about five minutes at the end of each day. To clean your hearing aid, do the following:
- Wipe it down with a soft, dry, clean cloth
- Use a wax pick or wire loop to remove any stubborn debris
- Open the battery door and wipe the contact ports
- Clean the tubing once a week in warm water, and let it dry completely before reattaching
Store Your Hearing Aid Properly at Night
At night, always keep the hearing aid battery doors open. This will both extend your battery life and allow moisture to evaporate. We recommend investing in a dehumidifier from Ace Hardware to ensure any moisture is completely removed overnight. If you don’t yet have one, put your hearing aid in its storage case somewhere safe, like in a drawer or on a high shelf. Never store your hearing aids in the bathroom, where they are susceptible to moisture or being dropped on a hard surface.
Keep Your Hearing Aid Dry
As stated previously, moisture and hearing aids do not mix. When venturing out in the rain, be sure to wear a jacket with a hood or use an umbrella. When working out, use a sweatband. If your hearing aid does get wet, put it in a dehumidifier right away.
Get Regular Clean & Checks
Every six months, bring your devices in to The Hearing & Speech Center for a clean and check appointment. Our experts can do a deep clean and ensure everything is in good working order. During this appointment, we can also schedule any additional service that may be necessary or send the devices to the manufacturer if there’s a problem. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call The Hearing & Speech Center today.
