Hearing Aids: The Dos and the Don'ts

The first few days and weeks of new hearing aids can be exciting – but they can also be overwhelming. Hearing aids aren't like buying a new cell phone or a computer. It's unlikely that you have friends or family that know the ins and outs of hearing aid maintenance, so you likely have plenty of questions about their care.

When you have your hearing aids fitted, your hearing specialist or audiologist will walk you through the most important elements of aid care. Hearing aids are an investment, and it's one you'll want to keep safe – so it's a good idea to have those tips on hand. Bookmark these top do's and don'ts of hearing aid maintenance for future reference!

The Dos

DO allow time to adjust to your hearing aids

Adjusting to your new hearing aids isn't an overnight process. You'll need to allow ample time for your brain and your body to get used to their newfound ability. Just like new contact lenses or glasses, a good way to adjust is to start with small periods wearing your aids, and gradually increasing this time over the course of a week or two.

DO store your hearing aids in a cool, dry place

Your aids' arch enemies are heat and moisture. Make sure to avoid both whenever you can, but especially when storing overnight. Avoid bathrooms with high humidity, or anywhere that your aids will be in direct sunlight (like near windows).

DO put your hearing aids in after applying make up and hair products

Your aids need to be protected from harmful debris or substances – and plenty of makeup and hair products could spell disaster for your aids. Avoid the risk by putting in your hearing aids after your morning grooming.

DO partially detach your hearing aid from the battery during nighttime storage

Though the risk is small, your aids could encounter harmful electrical malfunctions when stored overnight. A good way to avoid this is by disconnecting the batteries, which is as easy as opening the battery door.

DO remove your aid over a soft surface

We can all have butter fingers, and the worst time for that to happen is when handling your hearing aids. Remove your aids over a soft surface, so that if you do drop them you'll avoid shock damage.

DO remove your hearing aid during certain outdoor activities

Your aids are designed to fit in with your lifestyle, but there are certain activities that they might not be up for. Unless you've invested in shockproof or waterproof aids, remove your aids before swimming or hiking. This also goes for any activities where you might sweat more than usual.

The Don'ts

DON'T store aid batteries in the refrigerator

Despite popular belief, storing your aid batteries in the fridge won't improve their longevity. In fact, it might harm them in the long run! Store your aid batteries in a cool, dry place – just like your hearing aids.

DON'T store your hearing aid in hot or humid places

Your aids need to be stored in a cool, dry place whenever you aren't using them. Avoid leaving your aids in a hot car, or in a bathroom where moisture is likely to cause malfunction. Try your bedside table.

DON'T store your aid with the battery inside for extended amounts of time

Hearing aid batteries can sometimes corrode and leak when they are left for too long unused. To avoid any possible damage to your aids, remove your aid batteries if you plan to store your aids for longer than overnight.

DON'T try to repair your hearing aid yourself

Hearing aids are complex electronics, and trying to repair them yourself can lead to voiding the warranty. If you think there's something to be fixed with your aids, contact your hearing specialist or audiologist to talk about repairs.

DON'T forget to schedule regular follow-ups with our team!

We can help you keep your hearing aid in perfect working order! Make sure to schedule regular follow ups with us.

Atlanta Hearing Doctor

Let our friendly team walk you through the process, from your first hearing exam onwards. Call us at (404) 252-7528 or contact us by clicking here.