Hearing aids are an expensive but valuable investment for those who suffer from hearing loss. That is why it is particularly important to care for them by properly cleaning and disinfecting them on a regular basis.
It is always important to talk to your hearing care professional for a cleaning demonstration and the proper tools to use to avoid damage to your hearing aids. It is also recommended to schedule an appointment every 6 months to have a professional cleaning of your hearing aids and to perform any maintenance that may be required.
Here are some tips on how to keep your hearing aids in top working condition…
Cleaning Tools
Having the right tools is important. The following are the most common tools for regular, at home cleaning:
- Wax removal brush- You can also use a very soft bristle children’s toothbrush
- Soft, clean, dry cloth
- Wax pick/ wire loop
- Vent cleaner
Be Careful
Parts of the hearing aid like the microphone and receiver are very delicate. Make sure to be gentle while cleaning and keep these things in mind:
- 1.NEVER get water on the hearing aid because it can damage the electronics.
- 2 NEVER use chemical solutions or wipes on the hearing aids that were not specifically made for them.
- NEVER put anything into the microphone or receiver and be careful not to push wax or dirt into the opening.
Daily cleaning
It’s best to clean your hearing aids in the morning so that it gives wax and build-up a chance to harden overnight, making it easier to remove.
- To remove wax and debris, gently brush the microphone cover.
- With a soft cloth, wipe down the entire surface of the hearing aid.
Weekly Cleaning
Once a week you should do a little more in depth cleaning on your hearing aids to remove additional wax and build-up.
- Using a wax pick or a wire loop, gently remove wax or other build-up. Make sure you do not use the pick around the microphone of receiver ports!
- Check your wax guard (if you have one) and see if it needs to be replaced.
- Put your hearing aids in the LiViliti Sanitizer Bag for a 3 minute disinfection killing up to 99.9% of bacteria and germs!
LIVILITI SANITIZER BAG
The Bag uses UVC LED technology to kill up to 99.9% of bacteria and germs in as little as 3 minutes…. And it’s chemical and ozone free! It’s as easy as 1,2,3…
- Place the hearing aids in the bag.
- Close the bag.
- Push the start button and wait 3 minutes!
That’s it! You’re all done! The bag is great for taking your cleaning a step further by sanitizing all the bacteria and germs. Because you are not allowed to use chemical solutions or wipes on hearing aids, this is a perfect solution for disinfection! Not only can you use it for your hearing aids, but you can use it for literally ANY item that will fit in The Bag!
Below are the steps to cleaning your hearing aid before disinfecting them in the LiViliti Sanitizer Bag:
How to clean ITE (in the ear) hearing aids
Follow these steps:
- Focus your cleaning on the openings in the device including the microphone ports using a soft-bristle toothbrush or a brush provided by your hearing healthcare professional to clear away built up wax. Hold the device with the opening you are cleaning facing downward so any loose particles will fall out of the hearing aid instead of staying lodged inside.
- Next, use a wax pick or hook to clear anything out of the holes that didn’t come out with the brush.
- Finish by wiping the entire device with a clean, dry cloth or tissue. This will remove debris from the case of the hearing aid.
How to clean BTE (behind the ear) hearing aids
Follow these steps:
- Examine the device for debris and remove it with a soft brush or a dry cloth.
- Remove the earmold from the hook to clean it. Some earmolds, especially those made from soft materials, can become discolored and stain over time. Wiping them clean daily and soaking them in warm, soapy water once each week will help. Allow the molds to dry completely overnight before use, and do not use alcohol or other chemicals on them. Your earmolds may develop a slight odor over time, but a strong odor could indicate you have an ear infection, so consult your hearing healthcare professional if you notice it.
How to Clean a RIC (receiver-in-the-canal) Hearing Aid
Follow the steps:
- Gently brush the hearing aid to remove any debris
- Use your thumbs to gently massage the dome tip to push out any stubborn material
- Wipe down the entire hearing aid gently with a soft cloth
Replace the dome as needed when it becomes worn or misshapen or if there is a buildup or blockage that can’t be removed.
After identifying your style of hearing aid and following these daily and weekly instructions for cleaning, take the next step and put them in the LiViliti Sanitizer Bag for disinfection of bacteria and germs to help extend the life of your hearing aid AND the health of your ears!
To learn more visit us at LiViliti Health Products online!