Keeping your hearing aids clean is important to make them last longer and work better. You need the right hearing aid cleaning tools and know-how to clean them properly. Luckily, there are lots of good options available to help you take care of your hearing aids—no matter what type of device you use. Here are six must-have hearing aid cleaning tools and tips on how to use them.

1. Cleaning Brush

A soft-bristled cleaning brush is one of the most essential hearing aid cleaning tools. This will help remove dust, dandruff, dirt, and anything else that makes its way into the exterior shell of your hearing aid.  For any particles that settle into the holes of your hearing aids, you can use the bristles to carefully brush them out. Be sure to wipe away from the hearing aid so you don’t push the dirt in and clog them. 

Tip: turn the hearing aids upside down when you’re cleaning—that way, the debris will fall out.

2. Multitool

Often dubbed the “Swiss Army Knife” of hearing aid cleaning tools, the multitool offers all-in-one cleaning. Multitools feature a variety of essential cleaning tools, including brushes, wax picks, and vent cleaners. It’s recommended to choose a quality multitool over the cheap, plastic options, as the metal alternative is much sturdier and will last much longer. Some multitools even come with a magnetic pole, offering an accessible way to insert replacement batteries into your hearing aids. 

3. Ventilation Cleaner

Ventilation cleaners are great for in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid models. They remove any moisture or earwax from the vent.  It’s important to be gentle when running ventilation cleaners through the vent. Clean from both directions and make sure to push it through to the other side of the vent. Clean off any excess debris with a clean, dry towel.

4. Wax Guard/Filter 

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid models typically include wax guards or filters. They can be found in the receiver end of your hearing aid. Routine cleaning of your wax guard is important, the ear wax build-up can cause your hearing aids to malfunction. Over time these filters will become less effective and should be replaced every 1-2 months. Do not insert a wax pick into or around the wax guard.

5. Dehumidifier

Keep your hearing aids working at their best with a hearing aid dehumidifier. They will ensure your hearing aids last as long as possible. Also known as a drying station or hearing aid dryer, they help to keep your hearing aids moisture-free and double as a carry case! Some carry cases offer UV technology, killing harmful bacteria. A hearing aid dehumidifier is also a good place to store your hearing aids when you take them out for the evening. 

6. Disinfectant Spray

To clean, disinfect, and deodorize your hearing aids, a disinfectant or cleaning spray is best. But be sure to pick a spray specially formulated for your specific hearing aids. A microfiber cloth or cleaning wipe can be used with the disinfectant spray to ensure the best cleaning results. Cleaning sprays specially made for hearing aids have surface-active agents that are highly effective at removing ear wax. 

Make Your Hearing Aids Last

Cleaning your hearing aids daily will help you get the best performance possible from your hearing aids during the day and in the long run. Using the right cleaning tools will make cleaning them quick and easy! 

To learn more about how to properly care for your hearing aids, explore the Lexie Blog. For more information on Lexie Hearing and how we can help you hear better, visit our website or contact us today.