How to Maintain & Care for Hearing Aids

How to Maintain & Care for Hearing Aids
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A hearing aid is a small device that is designed to amplify sounds for hearing-impaired individuals. Hearing aids are made to be worn inside or behind your ear. They pick up sound through a microphone, before converting it to electrical signals that are moved to an amplifier. The amplifier's job is to make the signals stronger. The electrical signals are sent through a speaker and into your ear. Maintain and care for your hearing aid to keep it functioning properly.

Step 1

Inspect your hearing aid each day. Look for cracks, wax buildup or other abnormalities.

Step 2

Wipe the hearing aid with a tissue or soft cloth each time you remove it from your ear. Use a toothpick or pipe cleaner to remove wax that has stuck onto the hearing aid. Clean the device according to the manufacturer's instructions if more thorough cleaning is required for your model.

Step 3

Remove the hearing aid before using hairspray or other hair-care products.

Step 4

Turn the hearing aid off when it is not in use, and replace dead batteries soon after they stop working. Store the hearing aid in a cool, dry place that is away from direct heat or moisture.

Step 5

Wash the ear mold with a soft cloth, warm water and mild soap when needed.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft cloth
  • Toothpick
  • Pipe cleaner
  • Mild soap

References

Article reviewed by Marianne C Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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