How to Deep Clean Your Ears

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

In most cases, the best way for you to keep the insides of your ears clean is to leave them alone. A little earwax is in fact a good thing! [1] But if you do have excessive wax buildup, there are some generally safe methods for cleaning, like removing wax from outside of your ears and introducing a safe liquid into your ear, that you can try at home. Otherwise, seek the help of a doctor.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Taking a Cautious Approach

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-1-Version-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-1-Version-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-1-Version-11.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-1-Version-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cleaning your ears while you have an infection can be very painful and is not a good idea. Consider an infection if you are having symptoms such as earaches, smelly discharge, or ringing in your ears. [2] If you suspect that you have an infection, visit with your doctor before trying any method to clean your ear yourself.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2c\/Get-Rid-of-an-Ear-Ache-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-an-Ear-Ache-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2c\/Get-Rid-of-an-Ear-Ache-Step-13.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-an-Ear-Ache-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    For the majority of people, this is really all you need to do. Don’t pour or stick anything into your ear, and don’t try to scrape anything out. The human ear is designed to be self-cleaning, and earwax flows outward to facilitate this process. So, in almost all cases, there is no reason to go digging around in there. [3]
    • Earwax lubricates, hydrates, and offers some protection to the delicate components of the ear canal. It also possesses antibacterial properties, and naturally carries nasty stuff out of your ear canal. [4]
    • The ear canal's skin and hair help direct wax out of the ear. Additionally, chewing and other jaw motions help push wax outward.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/84\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-24-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-24-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/84\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-24-Version-6.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-24-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cotton swabs (e.g., Q-Tips) are great for cleaning a million different little things — except for your ears. [5] Using a cotton swab (or a rolled up napkin corner, etc.) to clean your ears will probably just push earwax down further toward your eardrum. [6]
    • Even worse, because of the thin skin and sensitive components inside your ear, you can easily cause punctures or other damage.
    • Most cases of impacted earwax are caused by ill-advised cleaning methods that push wax down against the eardrum.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you want to get rid of ear wax, wait until it emerges from your ear canal. Then, wipe it and the rest of your ear with a soft, moist cloth or cotton ball. You can even use those cotton swabs — that you’ve stopped sticking into your ear — to get to all the nooks and crannies on the outer part of your ear. [7]
    • Basically, only worry about cleaning the parts of your ear you can see in the mirror.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-10.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Soothe-an-Ear-Ache-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cerumen (earwax) impaction almost always happens due to human habits, like regularly sticking foreign objects — including cotton swabs, hearing aids, earbuds, earplugs, or a stethoscope — into your ears. If you develop an earwax impaction, you’ll probably use terms like “clogged,” “full” or “plugged up” to describe the feeling in your ear. [8]
    • Wax buildup on the eardrum can also cause muffled hearing or even progressive hearing loss. Other common symptoms of impaction include earaches; ringing in the ears (tinnitus); ear canal itchiness; discharge that may smell foul; and coughing spells.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-4.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In most cases, your doctor will use some combination of irrigation and manual extraction to remove impacted earwax. Any pain should be minimal, and you will probably feel the difference (and possibly notice improved hearing) almost immediately. [9]
    • Many of the symptoms of cerumen impaction can also indicate ear infections or other serious conditions that your doctor can diagnose and treat.
    7. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Loosening Wax Buildup at Home

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-25-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-25-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-25-Version-6.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-25-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Earwax candles are little more than hollow paper tubes lined with wax. Supposedly, when one end is lit and the other is placed in your ear, the candle will draw out earwax via a vacuum effect. If this all sounds a bit far-fetched to you, rest assured that science agrees with you. [10]
    • Plainly stated, there is no reliable evidence that these candles work in the least, and ample evidence that they can cause burns, fires, and punctured eardrums.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/93\/Remove-a-Sticker-from-Stainless-Steel-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Remove-a-Sticker-from-Stainless-Steel-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/93\/Remove-a-Sticker-from-Stainless-Steel-Step-3-Version-4.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Remove-a-Sticker-from-Stainless-Steel-Step-3-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you want to try to loosen and drain out excess earwax yourself by introducing a liquid, pick a safe option like salt water, baby oil, or (especially) mineral oil. Commercial earwax cleaning solutions are also available for purchase. [11]
    • Other DIY methods you can find online may carry unnecessary risks. Pouring hydrogen peroxide in your ear, for instance, can damage the skin in your ear. [12]
    • Ask your doctor about using a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution. This can be a great option for loosening and draining excess earwax if your doctor advises that it's safe for you to try. [13]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/Brew-Beer-Using-All-Grain-Method-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Brew-Beer-Using-All-Grain-Method-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/Brew-Beer-Using-All-Grain-Method-Step-5.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Brew-Beer-Using-All-Grain-Method-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Whether you are using mineral oil or another option, warm the liquid to body temperature before introducing it into your ear. Liquids that are too cool can disrupt the workings of your inner ear, potentially leading to loss of balance, dizziness, and nausea. Liquids that are too hot can cause irritation or even burns. [14]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/18\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-6-Version-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-6-Version-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/18\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-6-Version-10.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-6-Version-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Add just a few drops of body-temperature mineral oil (or other safe liquid) into your ear canal, using either a medicine dropper or a moistened cotton ball. [15]
    • Lie on your side, with the gunked-up ear facing up.
    • Instead of trying to force or flush out excess earwax on or near your eardrum, you might be able to soften it up and encourage it to flow out. The process should be painless and can even be relaxing.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-16-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-16-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/96\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-16-Version-6.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-16-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Remain in position for ten to twenty minutes, or even a bit longer if desired. Then, roll over onto a clean towel and allow the liquid and the loosened wax to drain out. [16]
    6. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Flushing Out Wax Buildup Yourself

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Recognize-Fetal-Alcohol-Syndrome-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Recognize-Fetal-Alcohol-Syndrome-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Recognize-Fetal-Alcohol-Syndrome-Step-6.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Recognize-Fetal-Alcohol-Syndrome-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you have a stubborn plug of earwax that can’t be coaxed out with mineral oil, you can try flushing it out at home. This is often how doctors do the job, but they have specialized tools and training. Don’t squirt excessive amounts of liquid into your ear, or with excess pressure, or you may damage your eardrum. [17]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-18-Version-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-18-Version-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-18-Version-6.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Get-Rid-of-Ear-Wax-Step-18-Version-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This is the type of gadget used to clean out a baby’s nose. Make sure the liquid is at body temperature. [18]
    • Squeeze the bulb, place the tip down into the liquid, and loosen your squeeze; the liquid will draw up into the bulb.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/83\/Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-5.jpg\/aid8766729-v4-728px-Prevent-Hearing-Loss-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Place the bulb just inside the rim of your ear canal but never any further into the ear. Hold your head upright, but slightly tilted to that side so the liquid can drain out. [19]
    • Stop immediately if you feel pain. See your doctor instead.
    • You may want to try to soften and loosen the earwax with mineral oil before attempting this method.
    4. Advertisement

Clear Your Sinuses With This Expert Series

Clearing your sinuses can sometimes feel impossible, especially if you have an infection. Use these expert articles to unclog your sinuses and finally get some relief.
1
Expert-Backed Tips & Remedies to Unclog Your Ears at Home
2
Clear Your Sinuses and Ears
3
Unclog the Inner Ear or Eustachian Tube
4
16 Ways to Clear Nasal Congestion
5
How to Clear Your Sinuses at Home
6
Clear a Sinus Infection

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Warnings

      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Get Rid of Water in Your Ears: Chewing, Blow Drying, Ear Drops & More
      How to
      Safely Remove Stubborn Earwax at Home
      How to
      Clear Your Sinuses and Ears
      How to
      Clean Your Ear with Hydrogen Peroxide
      How to
      Use Ear Candles
      How to
      Clean Your Ears
      The Best Ways to Loosen and Unclog Ear Wax: Massage, Home Remedies, & More
      How to
      Wax Ear Hairs
      How to
      Remove Ear Hair
      How to
      Use an Ear Wax Removal Kit
      How to
      Make a Homemade Ear Cleaner
      How to
      Remove Ear Wax Plugs
      How to
      Clear up Ear Congestion With Olive Oil
      How to
      Clean an Infected Ear Piercing
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
      2. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8613-ear-infection-otitis-media
      3. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
      4. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/3-reasons-to-leave-earwax-alone-2017051711718
      5. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ear-care-and-hygiene
      6. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
      7. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/got-an-ear-full-heres-some-advice-for-ear-wax-removal
      8. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14428-ear-wax-buildup--blockage
      9. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448155/
      1. ↑ https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/medical-procedures/ear-candling.html
      2. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/got-an-ear-full-heres-some-advice-for-ear-wax-removal
      3. ↑ Payam Daneshrad, MD. Board Certified Otolaryngologist. Expert Interview. 30 September 2020.
      4. ↑ https://www.nh.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Hydrogen-Peroxide-Ear-Drops.pdf
      5. ↑ https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh2941
      6. ↑ https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh2941
      7. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/earwax-build-up/
      8. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/what-is-the-best-way-to-remove-earwax
      9. ↑ https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh2941
      10. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ear-wax-removal-101-the-best-and-safest-ways-to-clear-clogged-ears

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 98,985 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement