Hearing aids improve the overall quality of life for millions of people all around the globe, but many of those users are not getting the most out of their devices. Oftentimes, this is due to poor maintenance.
Patients are always welcome to come into the office to get a tune up, but one of the simplest, most effective ways of keeping them in top condition doesn’t require you to leave home.
Hearing aid dryers are small containers designed to remove moisture from your hearing aids overnight.
Moisture damage is one of the leading causes of hearing aid repairs. Hearing aids are sophisticated electronic devices that sit close to your skin, which means they’re constantly exposed to moisture and natural oils from sweat, humidity, rain, and all the other hazards of daily life.
This moisture can build up inside the device, leading to problems like corrosion, sound distortion, intermittent performance, or even total device failure, but these issues can be prevented with the help of a dryer.
The most common hearing aid dryers are passive and electronic.
Passive dryers are simple containers that use a drying agent called a desiccant to absorb moisture. You typically place your hearing aids inside the container before bed, and the desiccant does the work.
This option is affordable, portable, and great for travel, but if you’re willing to invest a little more, the electronic option is a step above.
They use gentle heat, air circulation, or ultraviolet (UV) light to dry and sanitize your hearing aids with timed cycles. Some even include germicidal features to reduce bacteria and ear infections and are more effective for people who live in humid climates or sweat heavily.
It’s a worthy investment no matter which you choose, and if used properly, you will see returns in the extended lifespan of your device, improved sound quality, reduced repair costs, and overall better ear health.
To get the most out of your dryer, we recommend you use it every night by making it a part of your routine. Even something as simple as incorporating it into your daily routine can make a huge difference, but if you want to go above and beyond, here are a few more tips:
- If you use traditional batteries, open the battery doors before placing your hearing aids in the dryer to allow better airflow and drying. However, it helps to check with the manufacturer for more specific guidance.
- Wipe down your hearing aids with a soft cloth to remove wax or debris before drying because dryers are not a substitute for regular cleaning.
- If using a passive dryer, be sure to replace the drying pellets or discs as directed. They are usually in need of a change every couple of months.
- Finally, avoid drying your hearing aids in the bathroom. Find a dry temperate environment for better results.
When our patients come into our office and leave with new hearing aids, they are making a significant investment in their overall health and wellbeing. A dryer is a valuable resource that protects that investment, and we encourage all those who own hearing aids to care for them.
Your hearing is too precious not to.
