How to Safely Remove Earwax
- Fysiobasen
- Dec 6
- 3 min read
Earwax is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal, and it plays a vital role in protecting and lubricating the ear.It helps trap dust, dirt, and small particles, preventing them from reaching the sensitive parts of the ear.
Usually, earwax moves outward on its own — but in some cases, it can build up and cause discomfort or hearing problems.This article explains how to safely remove earwax, what methods to avoid, and how to prevent buildup.
What Is Earwax and Why Do We Produce It?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a waxy substance produced in the outer ear canal.It serves several important functions:
Protection: Shields the ear from bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
Lubrication: Prevents the ear canal from becoming dry or cracked.
Filtering debris: Traps dust, dirt, and dead skin cells before they reach the eardrum.
Production levels vary between individuals.Some people naturally produce more earwax, which can sometimes lead to blockages and discomfort.
How Do You Know If You Have Too Much Earwax?
Excessive earwax can cause several symptoms, including:
Hearing loss: A sensation of muffled or reduced hearing.
Ear pain: Pressure or aching caused by blockage.
Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing in one or both ears.
Itching or irritation: Discomfort or tickling inside the ear canal.
How to Remove Earwax Safely
Depending on the severity of the buildup, there are several safe and effective methods for removing earwax.
1. Ear Drops
Over-the-counter ear drops are one of the safest and most effective methods.They work by softening and loosening the wax so it can exit the ear naturally.
How to use ear drops:
Lie on your side with the affected ear facing upward.
Place a few drops into the ear canal.
Stay in that position for 5–10 minutes to allow the drops to work.
Gently wipe away any softened wax that comes out using a clean cloth — never insert cotton swabs deep into the ear.
2. Ear Irrigation (Water or Saline Flush)
Ear irrigation can be performed using a small bulb syringe filled with lukewarm water or saline solution.This helps rinse softened earwax out of the canal.
How to perform irrigation:
Fill the syringe with warm (not hot) water or saline.
Tilt your head over a sink and gently squirt the fluid into the ear.
Allow the water to flow out naturally.
Repeat if needed, then dry your outer ear carefully with a towel.
⚠️ Do not perform irrigation if you have a perforated eardrum, ear infection, or ear surgery history.
3. See a Doctor
If home treatments don’t work or you experience pain, hearing loss, or dizziness, see a healthcare provider.Doctors can remove wax safely using specialized tools such as:
Suction (microsuction): A gentle vacuum that extracts earwax.
Curette removal: A small instrument used to scoop out wax.
Professional irrigation: A controlled water flush performed under supervision.
4. What to Avoid
Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs, hairpins, or fingers into your ears.These can push wax deeper into the canal, cause injury, or damage the eardrum.
How to Prevent Earwax Buildup
Some people are more prone to earwax accumulation. Preventive care can help minimize the problem:
Clean only the outer ear: Use a soft cloth; never insert anything into the canal.
Limit earphone use: Extended headphone or earbud use can push wax deeper.
Regular checkups: If you frequently experience wax buildup, have your ears checked by a healthcare professional once or twice a year.
Summary
Earwax is a natural defense mechanism that protects the ear, but too much of it can lead to discomfort or hearing loss.Safe methods include ear drops and gentle irrigation, while severe cases may require medical removal.Avoid inserting objects into your ears, and maintain regular ear hygiene to prevent future blockages.
Sources
Smith J, et al. Management of impacted cerumen. Am Fam Physician. 2009;80(7):673–678.
Luntamo M, et al. Prevention and management of earwax impaction: a review. Int J Otolaryngol. 2019;2019:1–8.
Poorey VK, et al. The role of cerumen (earwax) in ear infections and ear health. J Laryngol Otol. 2015;129(7):617–622.
Heller J, et al. Clinical management of impacted cerumen: a systematic review. BMJ Open. 2018;8(4):e019061.
Burton MJ, et al. Ear wax removal interventions for people with impacted cerumen. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019;5:CD004395.
