In order to ensure that your hearing aids deliver quality sound for years to come, you must know how to properly care for them. One of the best ways to do this is by assembling a well-stocked hearing aid maintenance kit filled with tools to clean and protect your device.
Top Hearing Aid Tools
While there are many tools out there that can help keep your hearing aids clean and functional, here are a few of our personal favorites:
- Cleaning brush. Soft bristled brushes help remove dirt and other debris that collects on the outside of your device. The bristles can also be used to get inside the holes of your hearing aid to remove particles as well.
- Ventilation cleaner. This wire-like tool can remove moisture and earwax from the vent found on most in-the-ear models. Too much wax buildup can affect sound quality and interfere with performance.
- Wax guard. These small plastic screens attach to your hearing aid and prevent wax from building up on the device. They need to be replaced every 1-2 months to remain effective.
- Drying boxes. Moisture buildup can wreak havoc on your hearing aids. Drying boxes use air, heat or even UV lighting to remove excess moisture and bacteria from your device. You can use drying boxes as a safe, sanitary place to store your hearing aids at night.
Protecting Your Ears
Regularly cleaning your hearing aid can also help reduce the risk of irritation and ear infections. Hearing aids can alter the flora inside your ear, and we’re not talking about the kind of flora you find walking through the Archer Meadowbrook Preserve.
A 2014 study found that people with hearing aids had more infection-causing bacteria and fungi in their ear canal than those without. Some people in the study reported that irritation caused them to lose trust in their device and wear it less. Others even stopped using hearing aids completely.
Bottom Line
A proper cleaning routine helps protect your hearing aids and keeps your ears healthy. Investing in the right tools now helps prevent issues down the road. Hearing aids that work well will provide you with the most benefits and increase your satisfaction with your device.
If you have additional questions or wish to schedule an appointment, call Massachusetts Hearing Group today.