Not only do hearing aids represent a significant financial investment, they’re also essential medical devices that connect you to the world around you. Because of this, you want to do everything you can to ensure they’re well cared for. Below we review a list of do’s and don’ts regarding hearing aid care.
The Do’s
Below is a list of what you should do when it comes to your hearing aids:
- Do wear your hearing aids every day. At first, you probably won’t be able to wear them all day long, as you’ll need to give yourself time to readjust to hearing all the sounds around you. Start with just a few hours and slowly build up until you’re wearing them all waking hours.
- Do clean your hearing aids every night. This is essential to keep them in good working order. First, wipe them down with a soft, dry, clean cloth, then use a wax pick/wire loop to remove stubborn debris.
- Do open the battery door at night. This allows moisture to evaporate and maximizes the life of your batteries.
- Do keep spare batteries on hand. According to the National Library of Medicine, “A battery can last from 3 to 22 days, dependent on the type of hearing aid, frequency of use, required amplification, and any modern modifications that are used.” You never know when your batteries will die, and you don’t want to be without your hearing if they do.
The Don’ts
Below is a list of what you should not do when it comes to your hearing aids:
- Don’t get your hearing aids wet. Be sure to take them out before showering, swimming at Salvador Perez Swimming Pool and sitting in a hot tub or sauna.
- Don’t apply aerosols or other sprays with your hearing aids in. Take them out before applying sunscreen, insect repellent, hairspray, perfume, and other sprays.
- Don’t store your hearing aids in the bathroom, where they would be subjected to humidity as well as be at risk of falling into the toilet or onto a hard surface.
- Don’t try to repair your hearing aids yourself. Instead, bring them to an expert at Southwestern Hearing & Balance to get them fixed.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Southwestern Hearing & Balance today.