People suffering from hearing loss problems need hearing aids to enhance their quality of life. One effective device worth using today is OTC (Over-the-Counter) hearing aids. These devices are favored by many hearing loss sufferers today because they are available and readily accessible. OTC devices are ideal for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. You don’t need to visit any audiology doctor before using these devices.
As amazing as OTC hearing aids are, they also have their own issues. To help them perform optimally, you need to maintain and care for them. In addition to preserving their functionality, proper maintenance also allows you to use your devices for a longer period.
In the rest of this blog post, you’ll discover a few effective ways to maintain and care for your OTC hearing aids today.
1. Cleanliness matters a lot
Daily cleaning is crucial if you want to get the most out of your OTC hearing aids. As you continue to use your device, it’ll continue to trap earwax and debris. If proper care isn’t taken, the buildup of earwax and debris will eventually clog the device and prevent it from working optimally.
Below are a few steps for cleaning your OTC hearing aids daily:
- First, you need to get the necessary hearing aid supplies. They include:
- Soft, dry cloth—this is enough to wipe the surface of your hearing aids
- Cleaning brush—you need this brush to remove earwax from the device.
Regular cleaning is important to maintain sound clarity and quality levels. But why cleaning, you need to be cautious not to damage the device.
2. Protection from moisture
One of the few things that can damage your hearing aids quickly is moisture. According to hearing aid doctors, one effective way to prevent this issue is by using a dehumidifier. This is especially important if you sweat too often or reside in a humid environment. With a hearing aid dehumidifier, you can prevent your device from corrosion. It also helps to extend the lifespan of the hearing aids.
3. Proper storage matters
Proper storage can also make a big difference today. Store in a protective case when you’re not using the device. This keeps dust and debris away from it.
In addition, you should only store the device in a clean, dry place. Avoid direct contact with extreme temperatures and sunlight. This is crucial to maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the device.
4. Other tips
To further maintain and care for your hearing aids, below are a few other tips worth using:
- OTC hearing aids are very delicate, which explains why you need to handle them with care. Always keep your hands clean and dry when handling them, especially when changing the batteries.
- Always maintain the battery’s health. Replace the disposable batteries at the right time. Do this as soon as your device produces a distorted sound. For rechargeable batteries, check the manufacturer’s manual. You’ll find tips on how to manage the batteries.
- Furthermore, ensure to replace the wax guards regularly. These hearing aid supplies are designed to block earwax. With time, they tend to become clogged. In this case, it makes sense to replace the wax guards.
- Professional maintenance may also be crucial to keeping your device working at optimal performance. Some hearing doctors can guide you on how to go about the maintenance. They’ll help check for damage or wear and fine-tune the settings accordingly.
Visit Audiology Island today to find the best OTC hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss.