Hearing aids sit inside the ear canal and amplify sounds to increase hearing for individuals affected by hearing loss. Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of hearing aid devices or repair. Properly cleaning and caring for a hearing aid each day will extend the life of the device and help prevent costly damage. Dirt, debris and earwax can build up on a hearing aid, possibly damaging it or making it uncomfortable to wear, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Step 1
Keep the hearing aid dry at all times. Do not use or attempt to clean the device while showering, bathing, swimming or in the rain.
Step 2
Dry any moisture that collects on the device with a clean, soft cloth or a tissue. Never use the microwave or a hair dryer to dry the hearing aid.
Step 3
Remove the hearing aid each evening and clean it before going to bed for the night. The device needs time to air out moisture that collected over the day.
Step 4
Inspect all areas of the hearing aid to check for any wax or damage to the device.
Step 5
Hold the hearing aid so the opening to the microphone portion faces the floor. This will prevent any debris from falling into the sensitive microphone area during cleaning.
Step 6
Brush off any wax that built up on the wires, shell or ear mold of the hearing aid. Manufacturers include a proper brush for cleaning debris off the device.
Step 7
Dampen a soft cloth to gently wipe away stubborn bits of debris and earwax from around the wires of the hearing aid and from the portion that fits inside the ear.
Step 8
Check the wax filter on the portion of the hearing aid that fits into the ear canal. Remove any wax with the supplied brush.
Step 9
Open the battery door to the hearing aid to allow the battery compartment to fully dry out. Stopping the contact between the metal and the battery during the night helps prevent corrosion and extends the life of the battery.
Step 10
Store the hearing aid in a cool, dry location during the night. A tightly closed container with a packet of silica gel will help dry all portions of the hearing aid.
Things You'll Need
- Hearing aid brush
- Soft cloth
