Doctors Warn: Stop Using Cotton Swabs! Here’s How to Remove Earwax Safely

Have you ever noticed that sounds seem a bit muffled? Sometimes, your ears feel like they're blocked, making it harder to hear clearly. In many cases, this isn't hearing loss—it's simply earwax buildup.

Most people don't realize that earwax (ear wax) is the ear's natural cleaning agent. It protects the ear canal from dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles. However, when earwax accumulates too much, it can lead to muffled hearing, ear ringing, and even discomfort. That's when ear wax removal becomes essential. So, how can we safely remove earwax? Today, as a hearing specialist, I'll guide you through everything you need to know.

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Part 1: Why You Should Remove Earwax?

Many people think of earwax as dirt, but in reality, it's a crucial part of your ear's defense system. It prevents debris from entering the ear canal, keeps the ears moisturized, and even has antibacterial properties. However, excessive buildup can lead to issues like impacted ear wax removal.

One of my clients once shared his experience with me. He noticed that he was struggling to hear conversations clearly, especially in noisy environments. Initially, he thought it was hearing loss, but after getting checked by a professional, he discovered that earwax had completely blocked his ear canal. After a simple ear wax removal procedure, his hearing instantly improved.

If you experience similar symptoms, consider using an ear wax removal kit or ear wax removal drops to clear the buildup.

1. When Should You Remove Earwax?

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it might be time for an ear cleaning:

• Muffled hearing or a sense of ear blockage. A Blocked Feeling in the Ear is most frequently the result of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction.

• Ear pain or itching

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• Dizziness or balance issues

If your symptoms are severe, it's best to seek professional ear wax removal near me to ensure your ears are safely cleaned.

Part 2: How to Remove Earwax Safely?

Earwax buildup can sometimes lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, or irritation. While earwax usually clears out naturally, some cases require gentle removal. Here are the safest ways to do it without harming your ears.

1. Seek Professional Help When Necessary

If earwax becomes impacted or causes significant discomfort, a medical professional can remove it safely. In fact, earwax removal is one of the most common procedures performed by primary care doctors and ENT specialists in the U.S. They have specialized tools to extract the wax without risking damage to the ear canal.

2. Use a Safe DIY Approach

For mild earwax buildup, you can take steps at home to loosen and remove it:

• Use Earwax Softening Drops – Over-the-counter eardrops contain water-based ingredients (such as hydrogen peroxide or sodium bicarbonate) or oil-based solutions to help break up or soften earwax.
• Try the Gravity Method – Tilt your head with the affected ear facing up and use a dropper to introduce a few drops of warm water, saline solution, or hydrogen peroxide. Let it sit for about a minute before tilting your head the other way to allow the liquid and loosened wax to drain out.
• Use a Bulb Syringe (if appropriate) – Gently rinsing the ear with warm water using a bulb syringe can help flush out softened wax. However, if you have a perforated eardrum or a history of ear infections, avoid this method to prevent complications.

Part 3: Things to Avoid When Removing Earwax

While keeping your ears clean is important, improper earwax removal can do more harm than good. To prevent injuries and complications, here are common mistakes to avoid:

1. Avoid Using Cotton Swabs

Although many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, they often push earwax deeper into the canal, leading to blockages. This can make removal more difficult and may even cause damage to the eardrum.

2. Don't Insert Sharp Objects

Hairpins, toothpicks, tweezers, or other sharp objects should never be used to remove earwax. They can scratch the delicate skin inside the ear canal or puncture the eardrum, potentially leading to infections or hearing loss.

3. Say No to Ear Candling

Ear candling, a method that involves inserting a lit, hollow candle into the ear, is not only ineffective but also dangerous. It can cause burns, wax buildup from the candle itself, and even perforation of the eardrum, according to the FDA.

4. Be Cautious with DIY Irrigation

While rinsing the ear with warm water using a bulb syringe can be effective, it is not suitable for everyone. Those with a perforated eardrum, ear infections, or a history of ear surgery should avoid irrigation, as trapped water can lead to serious infections.

5. Avoid Overusing Earwax Removal Drops

Earwax softening drops can help loosen buildup, but excessive use can irritate the ear canal or cause excess moisture, increasing the risk of infection. Always follow the recommended usage instructions.

Part 4: Tips About Earwax Removal for Hearing Aid Users

Hearing aids can affect the natural movement of earwax, sometimes leading to excessive buildup. This not only impacts hearing clarity but can also cause damage to the device. Studies suggest that 60% to 70% of hearing aid repairs are due to earwax-related issues, as wax can clog vents, block receivers, and degrade internal components. Here's how to prevent earwax from interfering with your hearing aids.

1. Monitor Earwax Buildup

• Since hearing aids may stimulate increased earwax production, regular ear checks are essential.
• Ask your doctor or audiologist to examine your ears for wax buildup during routine visits.

2. Keep Your Hearing Aids Clean

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe the surface of your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth to remove wax and moisture.
• Use a Cleaning Tool: Hearing aid cleaning kits include brushes and wax picks to clear vents and openings.
• Replace Wax Guards: Many hearing aids come with wax guards or filters to prevent wax from entering sensitive components. Be sure to replace them as needed.

Although earwax removal might seem like a minor concern, it plays a vital role in maintaining healthy hearing. By following safe ear cleaning methods, you can preserve your hearing clarity and prevent future complications.