Your hearing aids are more than just electronic devices; they are your personal connection to the sounds of life. Investing in them is an investment in your well-being, social engagement, and overall quality of life. Like any valuable instrument, proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. Neglecting them can lead to diminished sound quality, and a shorter lifespan for your essential companions.
Here’s a practical guide on how to extend the life of your hearing aids, ensuring they continue to serve you well for years to come:
1. Keep Them Clean, Daily:
This is arguably the most critical step. Earwax, dirt, and moisture are the archenemies of hearing aids.
- Wipe them down daily: Use a soft, dry cloth or a specialized hearing aid wipe to gently clean the surface of your hearing aids each night before storing them.
- Remove earwax: Most hearing aids come with a small brush or wax pick. Use these tools to carefully remove any visible earwax from the ear tips, microphone ports, and vents. Be gentle to avoid pushing wax further into the device.
- Change wax guards/filters regularly: These tiny components prevent wax from entering the receiver. Your hearing healthcare provider will advise you on how often to change them (usually every few weeks to a month, depending on earwax production).
2. Protect Them from Moisture:
Moisture, whether from sweat, humidity, or accidental splashes, can wreak havoc on delicate electronic components.
- Store them in a dry place: When not in use, always store your hearing aids in a designated drying kit or a dehumidifier. These devices draw out moisture and can significantly extend their life. Avoid storing them in bathrooms or other humid environments.
- Remove them before showering, swimming, or intense exercise: Water and excessive sweat are absolute no-nos.
- Consider a drying box: If you live in a humid climate or perspire heavily, a desiccant drying box can be a worthwhile investment.
3. Handle with Care:
Hearing aids are robust, but they’re not indestructible.
- Avoid dropping them: Always handle your hearing aids over a soft surface, like a bed or a carpeted floor, to minimize damage if they accidentally slip from your grasp.
- Use both hands: When inserting or removing them, use both hands for better control and to prevent accidental drops.
- Keep them out of reach of children and pets: Curious hands and playful paws can easily damage or swallow small devices.
4. Battery Best Practices:
- Open the battery door at night: For hearing aids that use disposable batteries, opening the battery door at night helps to conserve battery life and allows moisture to escape, preventing corrosion.
- Use fresh batteries: Always use the correct type and size of battery. Store new batteries in a cool, dry place.
- Dispose of old batteries properly: Never leave corroded batteries in your hearing aid.
5. Schedule Regular Professional Cleanings and Check-ups:
Even with diligent at-home care, professional maintenance is essential.
Visit your hearing healthcare professional: Your hearing healthcare professional has specialized tools to deep clean your hearing aids, check for internal issues, and make any necessary adjustments. These routine check-ups can catch minor problems before they become major repairs. They can also ensure your hearing aids are still optimally programmed for your hearing needs.
By incorporating these simple yet effective habits into your routine, you can significantly extend the life of your hearing aids, ensuring they continue to provide you with clear, vibrant sound for many years to come. Remember, a little care goes a long way in protecting your investment and your connection to the world of sound.
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