How to Clean Your Ears Safely — Without Harming Your Hearing

Many people like to clean their ears at home, often with cotton swabs. But most healthcare professionals are strongly against using Q-tips or other objects in your ears. Why? Because it’s easy to push earwax deeper, block the ear canal, or even damage your eardrum and hearing bones.

Earwax (cerumen) protects your ear canal by trapping dust and dead skin. Normally, your ears clean themselves naturally. But too much earwax can block the canal and reduce hearing — a common issue for older adults and hearing aid users.

Never try home ear cleaning if you have:

In these cases, always consult your hearing care professional.

If your doctor approves, you can gently soften earwax using a few drops of mineral oil, baby oil, olive oil, or diluted hydrogen peroxide (1:1 with water). Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then tilt your head to let the liquid and loosened wax drain out.
💡 Tip: Always use room-temperature water and dry your outer ear gently with a towel.

For mild buildup, ear drops may help. Follow the product instructions carefully. You may hear gentle bubbling as the wax softens — that’s normal. Stop immediately if you feel pain or dizziness.

If your hearing aids sound weaker or completely silent, earwax might be the reason. Check for buildup in your ear canal, clean your domes, and replace the Wax Filter regularly to keep your hearing aids performing their best. Read "Hearing Aid Cleaning Guide"

Even with home methods, earwax removal can be tricky. If you don’t notice improvement after a few tries, don’t force it. Hearing care professionals have the right tools and training to clean ears safely — and to protect your hearing health.

Yeasound Tip:
Clean ears mean clearer sound. Regular professional ear checkups and proper maintenance of your hearing aids ensure both your ears and your devices stay in top condition.