Earwax (also called cerumen) is a useful, protective substance found in our ears. Earwax helps lubricate the ear canal, trap dirt, dust and other debris, and guard the delicate inner ear against infection and dryness. When you move your jaw just from talking and chewing, you are helping to naturally push out excess earwax. This is a key part of the natural cleaning process. Professionals recommend only cleaning the outer part of the ear. There is a common saying "don't stick anything larger than your elbow into your ear" because it is often unnecessary to clean your inner ear.

Why Using Cotton Swabs is Risky

• Pushing wax deeper: Instead of removing wax, swabs tend to push wax further into the ear canal. This can compact the wax against the eardrum (or deeper), making it harder for it to exit naturally – which worsens a blockage.
• Risk of earwax impaction: Blocked wax can build up over time, potentially leading to hearing difficulties, feelings of fullness, or discomfort.
• Possible injury or infection: The skin lining the ear canal is thin and delicate. Inserting a swab can scratch or irritate it – sometimes even puncturing the eardrum. This can cause pain, hearing loss, dizziness, or infection.

Because of these risks, hearing care professionals often recommend against using Q-Tips to clean your ears.

Let Your Ears Do What They Do Best

Earwax isn't dirt that needs to be "cleaned out." It's a protective mechanism. Trying to force-remove it with cotton swabs or other tools often does more harm than good by pushing wax deeper, risking canal irritation or injury, and creating potential for infections or hearing problems.

When Wax Builds Up

If you feel wax buildup or blockage, there are safer, gentler ways to handle it – or to seek help when needed. Here is an at-home remedy we recommend:

Mix a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water. Use a bulb syringe or medicine dropper to gently insert the solution into your ear. Allow the solution to sit in your ear for 20-30 seconds then tip your head and drain into a towel or tissue.

Know When to Seek Help from a Professional

If earwax becomes impacted and the above method does not work, contact us today for a professional ear cleaning. We are specially trained to use the Earigator – a quick and painless earwax removal solution.

At Hear Now, we are ready to help you on your hearing healthcare journey, and we welcome you into our office to find out what we can do for you.