Our Hearing Blog

The Benefits of Ear Cleaning and Safely Removing Ear Wax

We all have our little routines for cleaning our ears, don’t we? Some of us grab a cotton swab or even a toothpick, while others might just use their fingers. Sound familiar? While these methods seem handy, they can really be unsafe and unsanitary. So, let’s talk about how to clean your ears the right way!

First off, it’s perfectly okay not to know the best ways to keep your ears clean—this isn’t something everyone learns right away. Many of us pick up habits over time, but using things like cotton swabs in your ear canal can lead to some serious issues, like damaging your inner ear or even affecting your hearing.

Why Ear Cleaning Matters

Ideally, our ears would take care of themselves. The body does a pretty good job cleaning them naturally! Earwax, or cerumen, is beneficial. It acts as a natural lubricant and antibacterial agent, filtering out dirt and debris. It forms in the outer section of your ear canal and gets pushed out naturally when you chew or move your jaw. Sometimes, though, we might end up with too much earwax because we’re trying to clean our ears too diligently. If you don’t have a significant wax buildup, cleaning the outer parts of your ears just once or twice a week is usually enough to keep things fresh.

How to Safely Remove Earwax

Many people don’t realize how fragile our ears really are. Using sharp or pointy objects can be risky and might lead to damaging your eardrums or even permanent hearing loss. Here are some safer options for cleaning your ears:

1. Ear Cleaning Drops: These over-the-counter drops, especially those containing hydrogen peroxide, can help break up earwax. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package.
2. Bulb Syringe: If the buildup is significant, you might need to use a bulb syringe. Fill it with warm water, place it near the ear opening, and gently squeeze. This can help wash out some of the wax—just avoid this if you have a hole in your eardrum or are experiencing pain.
3. Mineral or Olive Oil: Some folks find that using these oils a day or so before a professional cleaning can be helpful. But keep in mind, most professionals will use mineral oil, so it’s not always necessary to do this at home.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Ears

Our ears are pretty good at self-cleaning, especially if we’re using safe methods. Unfortunately, many people still lean towards unsafe techniques. If you decide to clean your ears at home, steer clear of cotton swabs and earwax removal candles. You might be surprised to learn that cotton swabs usually come with warnings against using them in your ears! They often just push the wax deeper, which can lead to blockages. Plus, inserting them too far can cause serious injury. And please, let’s avoid those earwax removal candles. They can be dangerous and aren’t effective, aside from the burn risks they pose.

When to See an Audiologist

For most of us, a damp washcloth on the outer ear is enough to keep things clean. But if you’ve been using unsafe methods or think you have a wax buildup, it might be time for a professional cleaning. Visiting your doctor, or hearing care professional can be a smart choice. They have the tools and training to clean your ears. If you're not sure whether you need a professional cleaning, look for these signs:

• Excess earwax
• Itchy ears
• Muffled hearing

Your ears are delicate, so it’s important to avoid risky cleaning techniques. If you have any questions or need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals like our Hearing Instrument Specialist, at Mid-America Hearing Center. We’re here to help!