Audiology Associates of North Florida - Tallahassee, FL

Woman putting on her hearing aid over the couch in case she drops it.

What would you do if your hearing aids quit working at a time when you needed them most. Such as when you’re in an important meeting.

That’s not something anyone wants! It’s important to invest in hearing aids for your hearing, your happiness, and your general health. Keeping them functioning at maximum condition lets you obtain the greatest possible benefits from them.

The following are 7 tips to help you correctly care for your hearing aids and keep them operating in peak condition.

1. Get to Know The Instruction Manual

The best results will be attained when you make use of the manual that was included with your hearing aids. Many technical problems you might be experiencing can be resolved by the trouble-shooting guides that are in these manuals.

Always go to the manual first if something isn’t working properly.

Any issues associated with the performance of your hearing aid should be covered in the manual. Newer hearing aids function differently than the older models so even if you’ve had hearing aids before this is important. Obviously, hearing aid technology has progressed considerably in recent years.

2. Clean Your Hearing Aids

Hearing aids can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

While there’s normally some harmless bacteria on your skin, if you don’t wash your hands or properly clean the hearing aids, it can cause an infection.

Additional hearing issues can be the consequence of an ear infection. Some of these problems are short lived but permanent damage can also take place.

After each use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread faster on moist surfaces. Never put your hearing aids in water. Being careful not to get them too wet, use an alcohol-free wet wipe to clean and disinfect.

Clean them carefully once per week, including any custom mold pieces.

The earpiece will remain free of any wax buildup with regular cleaning.

3. Don’t Allow Your Hearing Aids Get Wet

Most hearing aids are not designed to get wet. They can even be damaged by high humidity. After cleaning, don’t keep them on the nightstand.

Hearing aids sitting on a surface in your house will accumulate dust that carries bacteria.

Store your devices in a cool, dry place in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Remember to take them out before you bathe or shower. Moisture is still present in the air when you shower, so don’t put them on the bathroom counter when getting ready.

When it’s raining, take an umbrella.

Your battery might drain faster because it has to make use of more energy in a moist environment, so you should always carry your charger with you.

Don’t allow your hearing aid to be exposed to extreme heat, such as a blow dryer or sauna, because that can also damage them.

4. Keep The Battery Charged

Keep your battery charged and take a backup when you go to a significant event.

When you take your hearing aids off to go to bed, turn them all the way off. If you plan on not wearing them for an extended length of time, always remove the battery. If you allow your hearing aids to sit for long time periods with the battery in them, the life of the battery can be diminished and their sensitive electronics can be harmed by battery acid.

The life of your battery can be significantly lengthened by adhering to these recommendations but it doesn’t hurt to bring a spare along, just in case.

5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally

A little bit of wax is pushed into your ear canal each time you put your hearing aid in. Voices will eventually begin to sound distorted as this earwax builds up. If your hearing experience doesn’t seem right, make an appointment with a hearing professional to check for excess earwax buildup.

With the right tools and know-how, it’s a simple procedure. It should only be done by a trained professional with the expertise to take care of and service your hearing aids.

6. Insert Your Hearing Aids Above a Soft Surface

Taking the chance of dropping your hearing aid into the toilet or sink is really not worth it. Dropping and breaking your hearing aid becomes a substantial possibility in this scenario. Over a couch, bed, or soft folded towel would be a suitable place to put them in.

7. Consult a Specialist if You Aren’t Experiencing Improved Hearing

You need to keep wearing your hearing aids even if you aren’t currently having the best success. Your situation can be improved. Schedule an appointment to come see us for a hearing test.

Call Today to Set Up an Appointment

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
Why wait? You don't have to live with hearing loss. Call Us Today