Audiology & Hearing Care of SWFL - Bonita Springs, 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 in the middle of a phone call?

That’s not something anyone wants! Your hearing aids are an important investment in your hearing, happiness, and total health. Keeping them functioning in peak condition allows you to obtain the greatest possible advantages from them.

You can properly take care of your hearing aids and keep them functioning in top condition by following these 7 tips.

1. Get to Know The Instruction Manual

The most beneficial results will be accomplished when you make use of the manual that came with your hearing aids. Many technical difficulties 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 correctly.

The manual should cover any problems pertaining to the performance of your hearing aids. This is important even if you’ve had hearing aids before because your new devices may not function in the same manner. Obviously, hearing aid technology has advanced significantly in recent years.

2. Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean

Bacteria like to use hearing aids as a breeding ground.

If you fail to clean and disinfect your hearing aids and wash your hands before you handle them, an ear infection can occur.

Ear infections can lead to further hearing problems. Some of these issues are short lived but permanent damage can also happen.

After each use, wipe your hearing aids down with a dry cloth because bacteria bread more quickly on moist surfaces. Water can ruin your hearing aid so keep them out of water. Being careful not to get them too wet, use an alcohol-free wet wipe to clean and disinfect.

Once each week, clean the hearing aid and any custom mold pieces thoroughly.

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

3. Don’t Allow Your Hearing Aids Get Wet

Getting wet is not something that most hearing aids are designed to do. Even high humidity can cause damage. Don’t keep them on the nightstand after cleaning.

Hearing aids will gather dust which has bacteria if they are left resting on an exposed surface.

Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Remember to take them out before you shower or take a bath. Keep your hearing aids out of the bathroom when you shower because there will be moisture in the air.

When it’s raining, bring an umbrella.

Your battery may drain faster because it needs to use more energy in a moist environment, so you should always bring your charger with you.

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

4. Keep The Battery Charged

Keep your battery charged and bring a backup when you go to an important event.

When you take your hearing aids off to go to sleep, turn them all the way off. Take out the batteries if you are going to go for a long period without wearing your hearing aids. You’ll get more life from the battery this way, and you’ll avoid the risk of battery acid damaging the hearing aid’s sensitive electronics.

You can substantially extend the life of your batteries with this advice but always bring a spare battery, just in case.

5. Have Your Ears Cleaned Professionally

Anytime you’re putting something into your ear, it will push a little bit of earwax into the canal. Voices will eventually start to sound muffled as this earwax accumulates. If your hearing experience doesn’t seem correct, make an appointment with a hearing specialist to check for excess earwax buildup.

The removal procedure is simple with the right tools. An expert in hearing should be the only person who performs this procedure.

6. Insert Your Hearing Aids Above a Soft Surface

Don’t chance dropping your hearing aids in the sink or toilet. This can easily lead to dropping the hearing aid and breaking it. Over a bed, couch, or soft folded towel would be a suitable place to insert them.

7. If You Aren’t Experiencing Improved Hearing, Speak to a Specialist

You need to keep wearing your hearing aids even if you aren’t currently having the best success. There are solutions. Schedule an appointment to come see us.

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.