How To Remove Ear Wax Safely at Home
- Ear Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops with hydrogen peroxide or other wax-softening agents can be helpful. Follow the package instructions carefully regarding dosage and duration of use.
- *Oil: Apply a few drops of mineral oil, baby oil, or glycerin into your ear canal using a dropper. You can also use a bulb syringe with warm water to gently flush the ear after a day or two of using oil drops.
Irrigation (Flushing):
- Bulb Syringe: After softening the wax, use a rubber bulb syringe filled with warm water to gently flush your ear canal. Tilt your head to the side and squirt the water near the ear opening, not directly into the canal. Let the water drain naturally by turning your head to the other side.
Important Safety Tips:
- Never insert anything sharp or pointed into your ear canal. This can damage your eardrum and cause hearing loss.
- Don’t use cotton swabs in your ear canal. Cotton swabs can actually push wax further in and irritate the canal.
- Don’t use hot water. Use warm water only, similar to body temperature.
- Stop if you experience any pain or discomfort. If you have any concerns about earwax buildup, earache, drainage, or hearing loss, see a doctor or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
If you’re unsure about any of these methods or have any pre-existing ear conditions, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.