Why Ear Cleaning Is a Topic Worth Getting Right

Ears are largely self-cleaning. The ear canal naturally produces earwax (cerumen), which traps dust, debris, and bacteria and gradually migrates out of the ear on its own. Despite this, many people reach for cotton swabs daily — often doing more harm than good. Understanding how the ear works helps you make smarter choices about ear hygiene.

The Role of Earwax

Earwax isn't dirt — it's a protective substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It:

  • Lubricates the skin of the ear canal, preventing dryness and itchiness
  • Acts as a natural antibacterial barrier
  • Traps foreign particles before they reach the eardrum
  • Naturally moves toward the outer ear as the jaw moves (through talking and chewing)

In most people, earwax exits the ear naturally without any intervention needed.

What NOT to Do

Don't Use Cotton Swabs Inside the Ear Canal

This is one of the most common ear-care mistakes. Cotton swabs tend to push wax deeper into the canal rather than removing it, which can cause a blockage (impaction). They also carry a risk of:

  • Perforating (rupturing) the eardrum
  • Scratching the delicate skin of the ear canal
  • Introducing bacteria and increasing infection risk

Cotton swabs are fine for cleaning the outer ear (the visible part), but should never be inserted into the ear canal.

Avoid Ear Candling

Ear candling involves placing a hollow, cone-shaped candle in the ear and lighting it, supposedly to create suction that draws out wax. There is no credible scientific evidence that this works, and it carries genuine risks including burns to the face, ear canal, and eardrum, as well as fire hazards.

Don't Overclean

Removing all earwax strips the ear canal of its natural protective layer, making it more susceptible to infection and irritation. Unless wax is causing problems, leave it alone.

Safe Ear Cleaning Methods

Warm Water Rinse

Gently rinsing the outer ear with warm water during a shower is usually sufficient for most people. Tilt your head to allow water to drain out naturally afterward.

Over-the-Counter Ear Drops

If you notice wax buildup or a sensation of fullness, pharmacist-recommended softening drops (containing ingredients like olive oil, hydrogen peroxide, or carbamide peroxide) can help loosen and move wax along. Always follow package instructions and consult a pharmacist if unsure.

Professional Ear Irrigation or Microsuction

For significant wax buildup or impaction, a healthcare professional can safely remove wax using:

  • Ear irrigation: Gently flushing the canal with warm water using a syringe
  • Microsuction: Using a small suction device under magnification — considered the gold standard for safe wax removal
  • Curettage: Manual removal using a small instrument, typically performed by an ENT specialist

Signs You May Have Earwax Buildup

See a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
  • Muffled or reduced hearing
  • Earache or discomfort
  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • Itchiness inside the ear

Who Is More Prone to Earwax Buildup?

Some people naturally produce more earwax or have ear canals shaped in a way that makes natural expulsion harder. This includes people who regularly use hearing aids or earbuds, older adults, and those with particularly narrow or hairy ear canals. If buildup is a recurring issue for you, your audiologist or GP can advise on a safe routine maintenance plan.

The Bottom Line

Less is more when it comes to ear cleaning. Trust your ears to do most of the work themselves, avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, and seek professional help when wax becomes problematic. Your ears — and your hearing — will thank you.