How often do you clean your ears? If your first response is “daily” or “weekly,” you might want to reconsider. Many people think earwax is "dirt" that needs to be removed frequently, but in reality, earwax (also known as cerumen) is part of the ear’s natural protection and self-cleaning process. Over-cleaning can actually cause more harm than good.

However, this doesn’t mean you should never clean your ears. In some cases, such as when excessive earwax buildup causes discomfort, cleaning becomes necessary.

In this article, we’ll provide you with essential information to help you understand the best practices for ear care.

Why Do You Have Earwax?

Many people think earwax is "dirty," but in reality, it is a vital part of your body's natural defense system. Instead of being harmful, earwax actually protects your ears from external threats. If you constantly try to remove it, you might be doing more harm than good.

Earwax is Your Ear’s Natural Shield

Earwax (cerumen) is produced by glands in the ear canal, and its primary function is to block dust, bacteria, and even small insects from entering deeper into your ears. It also prevents the skin inside your ear canal from becoming too dry and reduces the risk of infections. In fact, a moderate amount of earwax helps clean the ear by carrying away dead skin cells and debris. Without this natural barrier, your ears could become dry, irritated, and more vulnerable to infections.

External Factors Can Disrupt Balance

Although earwax is beneficial, certain external factors can lead to excessive buildup or blockages. Wearing headphones or hearing aids for extended periods, frequently using cotton swabs, or working in dusty environments can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of impaction.

Therefore, the presence of earwax is not a problem in itself. The key is to maintain a natural balance and know when and how to clean it safely to keep your ears healthy.

Related: How Your Ears Clean Themselves

Should You Clean Your Ears?

The short answer: Most of the time, you don’t need to. Your ears have a natural self-cleaning process that efficiently manages earwax. However, in certain cases, earwax buildup can cause discomfort or even hearing issues, making removal necessary—but only when done correctly.

Your Ears Are Designed to Clean Themselves

Your ears naturally push out excess earwax without requiring intervention. This happens due to the slow outward migration of earwax, aided by jaw movements like chewing and talking. As the wax moves toward the ear opening, it collects dirt, dead skin, and other debris, eventually drying out and flaking away unnoticed.

However, many people mistakenly think earwax is a sign of uncleanliness and try to remove it frequently using cotton swabs or other objects. Ironically, inserting anything into the ear canal often pushes the wax deeper, where it can compact and cause blockages. This can lead to muffled hearing, discomfort, and even infections if bacteria get trapped inside.

Over-Cleaning Can Cause More Harm

Excessive ear cleaning can do more harm than good. Here’s why:

• Stripping Away Protective Barriers: Earwax isn’t just waste—it serves a protective function. It moisturizes the ear canal, prevents dryness, and has antimicrobial properties that help fend off bacteria and fungi. Over-cleaning can strip away these natural defenses, leaving the ear more vulnerable to infections.

• Triggering More Wax Production: The body produces earwax as a defense mechanism. If you constantly remove it, your glands may overcompensate by producing even more wax, leading to persistent buildup and the need for even more frequent cleaning.

• Risk of Injury: Inserting objects like cotton swabs, hairpins, or ear candles can scratch the delicate skin of the ear canal or, worse, push wax deep enough to create a blockage or even damage the eardrum.

When Should You Actually Clean Your Ears?

Although routine cleaning isn’t necessary for most people, there are cases where earwax removal is required. You should consider cleaning your ears only if you experience symptoms of wax buildup, such as:

• Sudden or gradual hearing loss in one or both ears.

• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) caused by trapped wax.

• Itchiness or discomfort in the ear canal.

If you notice these symptoms, avoid aggressive cleaning methods. Instead, opt for gentle and safe solutions like using warm water during a shower, over-the-counter ear drops, or consulting a professional if the blockage is severe.

For most people, regular ear cleaning is unnecessary. Instead of trying to remove wax constantly, it’s better to let your ears do their job naturally. However, if wax buildup becomes problematic, it’s important to use safe methods rather than risk damaging your ears.

Safe Methods for Earwax Removal

While your ears generally do a good job of cleaning themselves, there are situations where earwax removal becomes necessary.

1. Over-the-Counter Ear Drops

Ear drops are one of the most commonly recommended methods for softening and loosening earwax before removal. These drops often contain cerumenolytic agents that help break down the wax, making it easier to expel naturally.

Simply tilt your head to the side, and place the recommended number of drops into your ear. Keep your head tilted for a few minutes to allow the solution to penetrate the wax. Afterward, tilt your head the opposite way to allow the earwax to drain out. For best results, repeat this process for several days or as directed by your doctor.

If you have ear infections or a perforated eardrum, ear drops may not be appropriate. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using them.

2. Irrigation (Ear Rinsing)

Ear irrigation, or rinsing, is a safe method for removing earwax under medical supervision. This process involves flushing warm water into the ear canal to loosen and wash away excess wax.

A healthcare professional uses a syringe to release a gentle stream of warm water into the ear canal. Sometimes, a solution to water and hydrogen peroxide is used to help break down the wax. The warm water softens the wax, and it is flushed out of the ear canal naturally.

Although it can be done at home with the right equipment (like a rubber bulb syringe), it's recommended to have it performed by a doctor. An improper technique could cause injury to the ear canal or eardrum.

After rinsing, it’s often recommended to dry your ears with a clean towel or a hairdryer on a low, cool setting. This helps prevent water from staying in the ear, which could lead to infection.

3. Using a Camera-Equipped Earwax Removal Tool

One increasingly popular option is using a camera-equipped earwax removal tool. These devices typically feature a small camera at the tip, allowing you to see inside the ear canal and accurately target the buildup. The camera provides a clear view, reducing the risk of pushing the earwax deeper or injuring the ear canal.

For a reliable option, we recommend Bebird's ear wax cleaning tools, which combine precision and safety for effective earwax removal.

4. Manual Removal by a Doctor

If earwax buildup is significant and doesn't respond to ear drops or irrigation, a healthcare provider may manually remove the earwax using special instruments. This method is effective for stubborn blockages and ensures that the wax is safely removed without causing damage to the ear canal.

Manual removal by a healthcare provider is safer than attempting to use sharp objects at home. The doctor has the experience and specialized tools to remove wax without damaging the ear canal or eardrum.

5. Avoiding Unsafe Methods: What Not to Do

While the above methods are safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of what not to do when it comes to earwax removal. Certain methods may seem appealing but can cause more harm than good:

While cotton swabs are commonly used, they can actually push the wax deeper into the ear canal, creating a blockage. Additionally, they can scratch the delicate skin inside the ear or even puncture the eardrum.

This method involves placing a hollow candle in the ear and lighting it. Despite its popularity in some alternative medicine circles, ear candling is not recommended. Studies have shown it to be ineffective and even dangerous, as it can cause burns, ear canal damage, and other injuries.

Many people turn to at-home suction devices, but these often fail to adequately remove the wax and can cause injury to the ear canal or eardrum if used improperly.

6. Preventative Measures

To avoid frequent earwax buildup, there are some preventive measures you can take:

If you use earplugs or hearing aids regularly, be sure to clean them properly and give your ears time to breathe. Wearing hearing aids can sometimes block the ear's natural cleaning process and cause more wax buildup.

If you’re prone to earwax buildup, consider seeing an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor for a professional cleaning every six months to a year. Your doctor can monitor the situation and advise on whether further action is needed.

If you experience discomfort, it's best to seek medical attention rather than trying to remove earwax yourself. With proper care, your ears will stay healthy, clean and free from unnecessary blockages.

Related: The 5 Best Ear Wax Removal Tools: Top Products and Methods for Clean Ears

Conclusion

Your ears are designed to clean themselves, and over-cleaning can disrupt this natural process, leading to irritation or more earwax buildup. Safe methods, such as using ear drops or camera-equipped ear cleaning tools, are good alternatives when cleaning becomes necessary.

For a reliable and safe ear cleaning experience, we recommend Bebird’s ear cleaning tools, which combine precision and ease of use for effective earwax removal.

FAQs

Can I use cotton swabs to clean my ears?

Cotton swabs should be avoided, as they can push the earwax deeper into the ear canal, causing blockages or injury to the ear. Instead, use safer methods like ear drops or camera-equipped ear cleaning tools.

How often should I clean my ears?

Most people don’t need to clean their ears regularly. The ears have a natural self-cleaning process, and cleaning is only necessary if you experience symptoms like discomfort, hearing loss, or a feeling of fullness.

Are ear drops safe to use?

Ear drops are generally safe when used as directed. They help soften earwax, making it easier for the ear to expel it naturally. However, consult a healthcare professional before using ear drops if you have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum.

What should I do if I have a buildup of earwax?

If you experience discomfort or hearing issues due to excessive earwax, consider using safe methods like ear drops, warm water irrigation, or a camera-equipped ear cleaning tool. If the problem persists, consult a healthcare professional for assistance.

Can ear candling help with earwax removal?

Ear candling is not recommended, as it is ineffective and can cause harm, including burns and injury to the ear canal. Stick to proven methods like ear drops, irrigation, or professional ear cleaning when necessary.