Inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal is dangerous and can cause damage to the delicate skin of the ear canal or even the eardrum.
Ears have a natural self-cleaning ability and generally do not require additional care. Earwax, or cerumen, serves important protective functions. Only excess wax can cause discomfort, a feeling of blockage, or hearing impairment. In such cases, it is acceptable to remove wax from the outer part of the ear—provided it is done carefully and safely.
If you experience a sensation of blockage, ringing, pain, or frequent infections, do not delay. In our Polish practice in London, we offer ENT examinations and safe earwax removal in comfortable conditions.
What is earwax and what is its role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural secretion produced by glands in the ear canal. Contrary to common belief, it is not a sign of poor hygiene but plays a crucial protective role.
- It protects the ear canal from dust, dirt, bacteria, and fungi.
- It prevents the skin from drying out and maintains proper moisture levels.
- It creates a natural barrier against minor mechanical injuries.
- It facilitates self-cleaning—movements of the jaw help gradually push the wax outward, where it can be safely removed.
A small amount of earwax is entirely normal and beneficial. Problems arise only when too much accumulates, forming a so-called wax plug that can cause a feeling of ear fullness, hearing loss, and sometimes ringing.
Common mistakes in ear cleaning
Many people, wanting to maintain hygiene, unknowingly make errors that can harm their ear health. The most common include:
-
Using cotton swabs
This is the most frequent and dangerous mistake. Swabs do not remove wax but often push it deeper, promoting the formation of plugs. They can also cause irritation, scratches, or even damage the eardrum. -
Using sharp objects
Using pins, toothpicks, or pen tips to clean ears is particularly hazardous. It can lead to serious mechanical injuries and infections. -
Cleaning ears too often
Excessive removal of wax strips the ear of its natural protective barrier. The skin inside the ear canal can become dry, irritated, and prone to infections. -
Using various "irrigation" methods without proper need
Pouring oils, alcohol, or other liquids into the ear without consulting an ENT specialist is very harmful. It can worsen inflammation or damage the ear canal.
We provide tips in a separate article on how to manage ear infections.
Should we clean the inside of our ears at all?
Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to clean the inside of the ears. The ear canal naturally self-cleans through the movement of the jaw (e.g., talking or chewing), which gradually pushes wax and debris outward. Only the outer part of the ear has visible excess wax, which is safe to remove.
Why avoid inserting objects deep into the ear?
- It can push wax further in or cause a plug.
- There is a risk of damaging the skin of the ear canal and causing inflammation.
- It can lead to perforation of the eardrum, a serious injury requiring medical treatment.
How to safely care for ear hygiene?
- Gently clean the pinna and the entrance to the ear canal with warm water and a towel.
- Remove wax only when it is visible at the opening of the canal.
- If you feel blocked, have hearing issues, or experience pain, instead of attempting self-treatment, see an ENT specialist.
Proper ear cleaning at home involves understanding how to do it safely and effectively. Since the ear canal has a natural self-cleaning mechanism, you should avoid inserting objects deep into it. Here are the key principles:
- Clean only the outer part of the ear—the pinna and the area around the ear canal opening. Use water and a soft towel or gentle cloth.
- Avoid using sharp objects or cotton swabs—they do not remove wax effectively and can push it deeper, potentially causing injury.
- Don’t overdo ear cleaning—it’s not necessary to do it every day; excessive cleaning can damage the protective barrier and cause irritation or infections.
Safe methods to remove excess wax:
- Special ear drops—available in pharmacies, these soften the wax, making it easier to naturally exit the ear.
- Saline or seawater sprays—gently hydrate the ear and support natural cleaning.
- Warm water during a shower—may help wash out some wax naturally, provided there are no contraindications.
What to avoid:
- Ear candling—a popular home treatment that is ineffective and dangerous.
- Self-irrigation with syringes—can cause damage if done improperly or excessively.
Why not insert objects deep into the ear?
- It can push wax further in or cause a plug.
- There is a risk of damaging the skin of the ear canal or causing an infection.
- It can even perforate the eardrum, which is a serious injury needing medical attention.
How to safely care for ears:
- Gently clean the outer ear and surrounding area with warm water and a towel.
- Remove visible wax only at the opening of the ear canal.
- If you experience feelings of blockage, hearing loss, or pain, consult an ear specialist rather than trying to remove wax yourself.
Proper ear cleaning at home involves understanding how to do it safely and effectively. Since the ear canal has a natural self-cleaning mechanism, you should avoid inserting objects deep into it. Here are the key principles:
- Clean only the outer part of the ear—the pinna and the area around the ear canal opening. Use water and a soft towel or gentle cloth.
- Avoid using sharp objects or cotton swabs—they do not remove wax effectively and can push it deeper, potentially causing injury.
- Don’t overdo ear cleaning—it’s not necessary to do it every day; excessive cleaning can damage the protective barrier and cause irritation or infections.
Safe methods to remove excess wax:
- Special ear drops—available in pharmacies, these soften the wax, making it easier to naturally exit the ear.
- Saline or seawater sprays—gently hydrate the ear and support natural cleaning.
- Warm water during a shower—may help wash out some wax naturally, provided there are no contraindications.
What to avoid:
- Ear candling—a popular home treatment that is ineffective and dangerous.
- Self-irrigation with syringes—can cause damage if done improperly or excessively.
Why not insert objects deep into the ear?
- It can push wax further in or cause a plug.
- There is a risk of damaging the skin of the ear canal or causing an infection.
- It can even perforate the eardrum, which is a serious injury needing medical attention.
How to safely care for ears:
- Gently clean the outer ear and surrounding area with warm water and a towel.
- Remove visible wax only at the opening of the ear canal.
- If you experience feelings of blockage, hearing loss, or pain, consult an ear specialist rather than trying to remove wax yourself.
Maintaining healthy ears primarily involves avoiding intrusive cleaning practices and trusting your body's natural processes unless excess wax causes problems. When in doubt or if symptoms worsen, always seek professional medical advice.
If you still feel a blockage or experience worsened hearing despite safe methods, the best solution is to visit an ENT specialist who can remove the wax under controlled, safe conditions.
Ear care for children – what to pay attention to:
Children’s ears are particularly sensitive, with narrower ear canals than adults, making wax buildup more common. Proper care should be gentle and safe to avoid irritating the skin or damaging the ear.
Basic principles for caring for a child's ears:
- Clean only the outer ear and the area around the entrance to the ear canal—using a damp cotton swab or a soft cloth is sufficient.
- Avoid using cotton swabs or other sharp objects—they can easily damage the delicate ear canal.
- Do not use home "irrigation" methods—there is a high risk of causing infections.
Why do children more often have wax problems?
- Narrower ear canals tend to trap cerumen more easily.
- Frequent upper respiratory infections can cause inflammation in the ear.
- The natural self-cleaning mechanism of the ear works less effectively.
When should you take a child to the doctor?
- If there is a loss of hearing, ear blockage, or ringing.
- If the child complains of ear pain or there is noticeable discharge.
- In case of recurrent issues with excess wax.
When to see an ENT specialist?
Although most cases of excess wax can be managed with simple home methods, some situations require professional help. An ENT doctor has safe and effective techniques such as ear irrigation, microsuction, or removal with specialized tools.
Symptoms requiring medical consultation:
- Persistent or severe sensation of ear blockage.
- Significant hearing loss.
- Tinnitus or sensation of “pressure” in the ear.
- Ear pain or fluid discharge.
- Dizziness accompanying the symptoms.
Why trust a specialist?
- Attempting to remove deeply impacted wax yourself can cause injury.
- An ENT specialist will select the appropriate method based on your condition and anatomy of the ear canal.
- The visit is quick, painless, and helps immediately restore hearing comfort.
Summary:
Proper ear hygiene mainly involves not inserting anything deep into the ear canal. Earwax serves as a natural protective barrier and usually doesn’t need removal. Only excess wax, causing a feeling of blockage or reduced hearing, may require intervention. The key points are to avoid cotton swabs, sharp objects, and unproven home remedies that could cause more harm than good. In case of doubts or worsening symptoms, it’s best to consult a specialist.
Conclusion:
The external ear doesn’t require intensive cleaning. Just take care of the visible part of the ear.
