Best Way to Clean Ears

Elite Hearing
May 17, 2025
Tinnitus

Your ears are incredible organs that help you hear, balance, and connect with the world around you. But when it comes to ear hygiene, many people don’t know the right way to care for them. From cotton swabs to online “hacks,” there’s a lot of confusing advice about how to clean your ears. In reality, your ears are self-cleaning most of the time and rarely need your help. In fact, cleaning them the wrong way can actually do more harm than good.

In this guide, we’ll break down how ear wax works, the safest way to manage it, and what to do if you’re feeling blocked or uncomfortable.

The Logic Behind Ear Wax

Earwax might seem unpleasant, but it’s actually your body’s way of protecting your ears. This gooey substance is produced by glands in the outer ear canal and has several important roles:

It traps dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach deeper into the ear.
It moisturizes the ear canal, preventing dryness and itching.
It has natural antibacterial properties to help prevent infections.

Normally, ear wax slowly makes its way out of the ear canal on its own, pushed by jaw movements like talking and chewing. Once it reaches the outer ear, it dries up and flakes off without you even noticing.

Problems only arise when people try to clean their ears using cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects.

Poking around in the ear can actually push the wax deeper, leading to blockages, injury, or even punctured eardrums. It’s important to understand that ear wax is not dirty. It’s actually healthy and has protective and lubricating propertieserties.

Best Way to Clean Ears

For most people, the best way to clean ears is not to clean them at all.

Yes, you’ve read that right.

Your ears are designed to clean themselves. But in some cases, ear wax can build up and become impacted, causing discomfort or hearing problems.

A little wax is normal and healthy. But if you’re producing too much or have narrow ear canals, the wax might not exit naturally.

In these situations, it’s important to follow safe ear-cleaning practices, or better yet, seek professional help.

An audiologist can help with excessive ear wax or ear wax impaction. Elite Hearing of Colorado Springs connects you to audiologists in Colorado Springs, CO.

Cerumen Impaction and Its Symptoms

Cerumen impaction occurs when ear wax becomes tightly packed and blocks the ear canal. This can happen from using cotton swabs or other items that push wax deeper inside.

Symptoms of impaction may include:

A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Earache or mild pain
Decreased hearing
Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Dizziness or balance problems
Itchiness or drainage

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to schedule a visit with an audiologist.

Trying to remove impacted wax yourself can lead to further damage or infection. An audiologist can safely and comfortably remove the wax using specialized tools or gentle irrigation.

Ear Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts

Knowing how to safely manage earwax can prevent a lot of problems down the line. Here are some helpful guidelines:

Ear Cleaning DO’s:

Let your ears clean themselves. Wax usually moves out naturally.
Use a warm, damp cloth to gently clean the outer ear (not inside the canal).
Try ear drops if recommended by a healthcare provider. Drops can soften hardened wax.
See an audiologist or hearing professional for regular checkups or professional cleanings

Ear Cleaning DON’Ts:

Don’t insert anything into your ears. This includes cotton swabs, keys, bobby pins, or sharp objects.
Don’t use ear candles. These have not been proven effective and can cause burns or other injuries.
Don’t ignore symptoms. If you feel impaction, ringing, or discomfort, it is best to seen an audiologist and have your ears checked.

What Is the Best Way to Remove Ear Wax?

If your ears feel clogged or uncomfortable, the best option is to visit an audiologist. Our Colorado Springs, CO audiologists can examine your ears and safely remove any excess wax.

In mild cases, audiologists may recommend:

Over-the-counter ear drops to soften wax
Hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil (used as directed)
Irrigation with warm water, performed carefully and only when appropriate

However, these treatments are not for everyone. People with a history of ear surgery, infections, or eardrum damage should avoid DIY methods and stick with professional care.

Bottom Line

Ear wax isn’t the enemy. it’s a natural and essential part of ear health. In most cases, your ears don’t need cleaning. But when wax builds up and causes discomfort, it’s important to avoid risky methods and seek expert help.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of impaction or hearing loss, a visit to the audiologist can provide relief and keep your ears safe and healthy.