How to Remove Q-tip Cotton From the Ears

Always be careful when using Q-tips.

If you use a Q-tip or any other cotton swab to remove wax from your ears, be aware that you're running a risk: if you insert it improperly, it can get stuck inside your ear canal. In addition, the cotton from the Q-tip can also get stuck in your ears. Having cotton in your ears isn't a pleasant experience, but you can remove the cotton with the proper tools. If you still have trouble removing the cotton from your ears, visit your physician. You should also choose another method for removing ear wax. Either consult your doctor or try irrigation.

Things You'll Need

• Ear syringe
• Water

Instructions

1. Visit a pharmacy. Purchase a syringe in the medicine aisle; make sure it's designed for the ear.

2. Add lukewarm water to your syringe. Lie down in a comfortable position. Ideally, you should lie on your side, on a bed or couch.

3. Pull the flap of your ear upward and backward. This provides room for the syringe. Insert the syringe into your ear, gently and with little pressure.

4. Squeeze the syringe to release water into your ear. Wait for the cotton to loosen and come out. The cotton should come out in five minutes. You will feel it loosen up.

5. Pull the cotton from your ear, gently. Use your fingertips instead of a sharp tool such as tweezers. Repeat, if necessary, in your other ear.

Tips & Warnings

• If you still cannot get the cotton out, see your physician.

• Irrigate your ear instead of using Q-tips. To irrigate, mix a half cup of peroxide and water and add it to the syringe. Follow the above directions to remove ear wax.

• Watch out for redness, swelling, pain or discharge. If you experience any of these signs, see your physician immediately.

References

• Time: Something Evil in the Ear Canal
• Medline Plus: Ear Emergencies
• Ear Nose and Throat Center: How to Remove Ear Wax Impactions