Proper maintenance and regular care will extend the life of your hearing aids and keep them in prime condition. Being proactive will also reduce the chance of a malfunction, which can leave you without the ability to hear clearly for days at a time. Here’s a closer look at the most fundamental tips for taking care of yours.

3 Ways to Keep Hearing Aids in Good Shape

1. Handle Them With Care

Hearing aids are more durable now than they used to be, but they’re still delicate and intricate machines that can easily be damaged. Always hold onto them tightly and make sure you have a good grip when transporting them.

Dropping a hearing aid can cause internal and external damage. Keep them away from curious pets and children and store them in a safe place when they aren’t being used. 

2. Protect Them From Moisture

Hearing aids can seriously malfunction when they get wet, so keeping them dry is imperative. Remove them before showering, bathing, or swimming and never leave them in the bathroom due to the high humidity. For the same reason, be sure to take them out before you enter a hot tub or steam room.

If your hearing aids do get wet, dry them gently with a towel right away to remove moisture. Avoid using a heat source, such as a blow-dryer, as this can damage some components. 

3. Keep Them Free of Wax

Earwax is a naturally occurring buildup in the ear. While it’s important to ear health, it’s also one of the leading causes of poor performance in hearing aids. Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) and in-the-ear (ITE) devices are especially prone to damage from wax. Your hearing aids will frequently come in contact with this substance, so take the time to clean them every day to avoid buildup.

Use a soft toothbrush or dry cotton swab to gently remove excess earwax, moisture, debris, or anything else that’s accumulated during the day. Clean both the microphone and the receiver. 

If you’re in need of repairs or maintenance care for your hearing aids, turn to Anthony Durig Audiology in Summit County, OH. This patient-centered audiology team will ensure your needs and values guide their decisions regarding hearing testing, hearing aid fitting, and more. Call (330) 688-4115 to set up an appointment with a professional today.