It is a question we get frequently: how do I keep my ears clean? Many people then refer to earwax removal and use a cotton swab, for example, to poke around in the ear. Don’t! On this page we explain why not, and what you can do.
What does earwax do?
First, it is important to understand exactly what earwax does. This is because it has several functions and it is by no means always wise to remove it. Earwax, also known as cerumen, protects the inner ear and eardrum. For example, it holds back dirt and dust, preventing ear infections. In addition, earwax, the word says it all, lubricates the ear canal. This prevents dehydration and itching. So it is nothing bad at all, but even a natural protection. Removal is only necessary if it is really excess.
When is earwax excess?
There are a number of symptoms that can indicate whether you suffer from excess wax:
- The feeling that the ear is “full
- (Partial) deafness
- Tinnitus (tinnitus)
- Fluid from the ear
- Itching in the ear
If your ear canal is completely blocked, it is wise not to try to remove the wax yourself. You would be wise to contact your family doctor, who may be able to refer you to an ENT specialist.
Dripping olive or salad oil
When your doctor goes to remove the excess earwax, he will probably advise you to drip olive or salad oil in the blocked ear for several days. The soaks into the earwax making it soft and very easy to remove.
Tip #1: Place your head on a pillow, preferably with a towel over it (there may be spills). This will make it easier to drip your ear.
Tip 2: Use our handy dropper bottle!
What should I really not do?
If the ear canal is only partially blocked then you can try to remove the excess wax yourself. But above all, don’t do this:
Putting home, garden and kitchen objects in the ears
Cotton swabs, glasses feet, pens…. you name it and people put it in their ears. It probably feels very pleasant, but don’t do this! The chance of damaging the eardrum is significant and then you are much further from home.
Using ear candles
Despite being all the hype, we advise against using ear candles. In our store, unfortunately, we regularly see people who have damaged their ear canals due to the hot wax. Just don’t do it.
How can I safely remove earwax by myself?
There are a number of methods and products you can use when you want to safely remove earwax yourself:
A lukewarm shower
The first thing to try is to take a lukewarm shower. Put the shower head on the ear and let the water flow into the inner ear. The lukewarm water will soften the earwax, allowing it to drain easily through the outer ear. After showering, make sure your ears are thoroughly dry!
An ear spray
There are several sprays on the market that help soothe and remove earwax, or are perfect against itching, for example. These are easy to inject and, of course, completely safe to use. They are of course available in our webshop.
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A. Bird Earwax Spray 20 ml€24,99 -
Ear spray itching 20 ml€24,99
Ear cleaners (with camera)
Finally, there are ear cleaners. It does the same thing as your cotton swab or glasses pad, but safely. Nowadays, there are even very nice ear cleaners with a camera, which allows you to see the inside of your ear on your phone. Not only convenient and safe, but also interesting and (we think) fun!
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Phonicare Earscratcher€14,95
Take care of your ears
It may sound like simple advice but we can’t repeat it often enough: be careful with your ears. It is always advisable to treat one of your most important senses with care. Are you unsure about anything to do with your hearing and need honest advice? Feel free to contact us, our hearing care specialists will be happy to help you.
