Caring for Your Hearing Aids

Caring for Your Hearing Aids

Keeping your hearing aids clean and in good repair will ensure that you get the maximum benefit from these important devices. In addition to home cleaning, professional cleaning at the offices of Ear Nose & Throat Surgeons of Western New England is essential. Your ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors have three convenient offices in Northampton, Ware, and Springfield, MA.

How to Care for Your Hearing Aids

Following these tips will help you avoid hearing aid malfunctions:

  • Clear Your Hearing Aids Every Day: Your aids won't work very well if they become clogged with ear wax. Use a soft toothbrush, a hearing aid brush, or a wax pick to remove wax and debris from the openings of the receivers and microphones. You'll also need to replace the wax filters in the hearing aids from time to time. Use the type of filters recommended by your ENT in Northampton, Ware, or Springfield, MA.
  • Keep Your Hearing Aids Safe and Dry: Today's hearing aids use complicated technology to improve your hearing. Exposure to moisture may damage the sensitive circuits in the aids, causing them to malfunction. Avoid wearing hearing aids when you shower, swim or bathe. Put the aids in a safe, dry place when you remove them at night. If you have pets or small children who may be tempted to play with your hearing aids, store the aids in a high shelf or cabinet.
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands before handling or cleaning your hearing aids. Don't use hair sprays or gels while you're wearing your aids, as these products may damage or clog the aids. Apply these products before you put your hearing aids in your ears.
  • Don't Forget to Change the Batteries: Changing the batteries on a regular basis can prevent damage due to corroded batteries. After removing the batteries, wipe the contacts with a soft cloth or cotton sway to remove dirt. If dirt remains on the contacts, hearing aid performance may be affected. Your audiologist or ENT may recommend removing the batteries at night, depending on the type of hearing aid.

Home and professional cleanings keep your hearing aids in good working condition. If you would like to schedule an appointment or cleaning with the ENTS at Ear Nose & Throat Surgeons of Western New England, call (413) 732-7426 for the Springfield, MA, office, (413) 586-2033 for the Northampton office, or (413) 967-2249 for the Ware office at Mary Lane Hospital.