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How To

How to Clean the Ear

Contributor
By Ann Johnson
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)
Clean the Ear
Clean the Ear
A. Johnson

When we think of cleaning our ears, many people assume that means to remove earwax. Yet the fact is, earwax, or cerumen, is actually the ear's self-cleaning mechanism. Earwax, which has antibacterial properties, helps to lubricate and protect the ear. It captures dirt that gets into the ear canal, and in most cases will naturally move it from the ear. But in some cases earwax is unable to move naturally from the ear canal and it must be safely removed.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Solution: mineral oil, baby oil, hydrogen peroxide, or glycerin
  • Rubber-bulb syringe
  • Saline
  1. Step 1

    Soften the earwax by adding a few drops of the solution to each ear, twice a day. Do not do more than four days in a row. Choose one of the solutions listed in Things You'll Need to soften the wax.

  2. Step 2

    Irrigate the ear canals by gently inserting warm water into each ear, using a rubber-bulb syringe. Tilt head to one side, pull your outer ear outward to straighten the canal and insert the water. After the canal irrigates turn the head to the other side and allow water to drain out.

  3. Step 3

    Dry your ears after irrigation. You can use a dry towel or warm air.

  4. Step 4

    Soften the earwax (as in Step 1) if necessary, prior to irrigation. Instead of warm water, use a saline and water solution to irrigate.

  5. Step 5

    See your ear, nose and throat doctor if you are unable to remove your own waxy buildup. Trained doctors can use instruments to remove excess wax. Never try this procedure at home.

Tips & Warnings
  • According to information from the National Health Information Center, those who wear hearing aids should have their ears cleaned several times a year by a medical professional. Only clean your ear if you have a waxy blockage.
  • Never insert a cotton swab in your ear. Don't clean your own ears if you have tubes in your ears or a damaged ear drum; you should see your doctor.
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