The safest way to clean your ears is to gently clean only the outer ear with a soft, clean washcloth. For earwax buildup, soften the wax by putting a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, or olive oil into the ear and then let it sit for a few minutes. You can also use over-the- counter ear drops designed to soften wax. After softening, you may rinse the ear canal gently with warm water or saline using a rubber bulb syringe, then dry your ear gently. Avoid using cotton swabs inside the ear canal, as they can push wax deeper, cause injury, or damage the eardrum. Do not use ear candling, at-home suction devices, or insert any pointed objects into the ear canal. If wax buildup causes symptoms like earache, fullness, hearing impairment, or dizziness, see a doctor who can safely remove impacted wax using specialized instruments. Summary of safe cleaning steps:
- Clean the outer ear with a damp washcloth.
- Use a few drops of baby oil, hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, or glycerin to soften wax.
- After softening, gently rinse with warm water or saline using a bulb syringe.
- Dry the outer ear carefully.
- Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal.
- Seek medical help for persistent symptoms or severe impaction.
