A hearing aid brings welcome relief. Finally, you hear the world around you without straining, confusion, or frustration. For those who rely entirely on their hearing aids for sound, the idea of a malfunction is worrisome. At Hear More Associates, we only provide the most durable hearing aids on the market and we are always available to assist with hearing aid needs. In addition, there are simple steps you can take to prolong the life of your hearing aid and ensure optimal sound quality. Try these 5 tips to care for your hearing aid and don’t hesitate to call us with any questions.
1. Store in a Safe Location
When you first get a hearing aid, you might not think about where to store it, but it’s the first step to protecting it. Pets are helpful companions if you suffer from hearing loss. But store hearing aids away from pets and children. Not only can they damage the device, they can also be harmed by it if they swallow it or get too close to feedback. Avoid extreme temperatures or humidity, and consider storing aids in a drying container or protective case.
2. Avoid Moisture
Moisture can damage the electronic components, so always remove hearing aids before swimming, bathing, or showering. Sweat or humidity can also create condensation, so remove the batteries and leave the battery compartment open, then allow the device to dry overnight or in a drying container. Consider purchasing a forced air blower to remove moisture and dust, but don’t use a hair dryer.
3. Protect Aids from Dirt and Cosmetics
Hairspray, dust, face powder, moisturizer, or any small particles can clog the tubes and damage the speaker. Make sure your hands are clean before you handle the device and remove hearing aids before applying hair products or cosmetics.
4. Clean with Care
Ear wax buildup is a common culprit of muffled sound quality or feedback. Hearing aids require frequent cleaning, but it’s important to do it gently. You might think a strong chemical would be the most sanitizing, but it will damage the device. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust or debris and a mild soap to clean the ear molds once you remove them. Make sure the molds are completely dry before you put them back on.
5. Conduct Sound and Battery Checks
Some batteries only last a week or two, so it’s important to check them often to prevent sound interruption. You can purchase a battery tester or conduct daily sound checks, even if you don’t wear the aids every day. A listening tube helps check the clarity, and trust loved ones if they sense your hearing is not what it was.
No matter what your hearing aid concerns are, Hear More Associates are here to help. We have 21 convenient locations to serve our valued customers. It’s important to schedule visits with your Hearing Aid Specialist for deep cleaning, maintenance, and assurance that the size and model are still the best fit for you. Contact us today to learn more!
