How to Remove Ear Wax Quickly

Although taking a cotton swab and jamming it into the ear canal might seem like the quickest and most effective way of removing ear wax, in truth, it does more harm than good. Whenever you insert something small into your ear, such as a cotton swab, you can negatively affect the natural process that your ears have for ear wax production and expulsion as well as push ear wax further into the ear canal. Removing ear wax safely is the key and it involves liquids, not small objects.

Things You'll Need

• Water or ear drops
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. Tilt your head to the side.

2. Pour lukewarm water or ear drops into the ear canal. Allow the liquid to sit for a few seconds. This process will soften the ear wax so that you can clean the ear.

3. Hold a cloth over the ear and tilt your head back to its normal position. The cloth prevents the loosened wax and water or ear drop liquid from dribbling down the ear and neck.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 with the other ear.

Tips & Warnings

• Mineral or olive oil can also be used to soften the wax.

• Don't try to clean your ears too often. Ear wax is a normal and healthy substance that can actually protect the ear.

References

• Ear Wax Information
• Getting Rid of Wax Blockage

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish