Hearing Aid Cleaning
Phonak Hearing Aid Cleaning KitHearing aids are super-sophisticated devices that help the hard of hearing manage their hearing loss. To provide the required amplification level of sound, the device needs to be in working order and clean from wax and any other accumulated debris, such as dead skin cells. Wax that has accumulated on the hearing aid can cause intermittent faults or a complete blockage of sound. Most electrical devices, which includes hearing aids, can also be affected by moisture build-up on or around the components. Wax, together with the humid conditions that exist in the ear canal, unfortunately, create the perfect environment for the build-up of moisture on the hearing aid.
Hearing Aid Cleaning:
The most important part of maintenance is the prevention of possible problems which involves daily cleaning and inspection. Hearing aid components should last at least 4-5 years provided they are kept clean and all the various parts in working order. Daily cleaning and inspection is essential in ensuring their extended durability. Hearing aid cleaning can be done using a number of tools. Small brushes and/or wax remover tools are among the most popular. Hearing aid brush is used to gently brush over the entire surface of the shell (outer housing) of the device, while the wax tool is used on in-the-ear hearing aids to remove more persistent wax. If a thin-tubing fitting is used, a cleaning wire is recommended to be threaded through the tubing to ensure the removal of wax or moisture. If earmolds are used, the earmold and tubing can be removed from the hearing aid and cleaned in warm water – an air puffer is then a useful tool to use to ensure all moisture is cleared before the tubing is re-attached to the hearing aid. External dirt can also be removed with the use of antibacterial/anti-fungal wipes.
Hearing Aid Cleaning Best Practices:
Hearing aids should be cleaned when the device is on or held over a soft level surface. Bear in mind these devices include a number of sensitive electrical components and you are always better off taking longer due to taking extra care. To reduce the time required to clean in-the-ear hearing aids, in particular, we strongly recommend the use of a ‘dry aid box’ or kit. A dry box is designed to remove moisture and to dry earwax. Some of these dry aid boxes run on mains and even have built-in mechanisms to help eliminate germs. Dry boxes also provide a safe place in which to store the hearing aids overnight.
About Hearing Direct
We are one of the world's leading hearing aid specialists, offering a wide range of affordable products, as well as information resources to help improve the quality of life for the hard of hearing. We sell:- Hearing aids,
- Hearing aid batteries,
- Hearing aid accessories such as earplugs,
- and amplified devices such as super loud alarm clocks and amplified phones.