Ear Cleaning Don’ts

Ears are amazing. They actually clean themselves. How cool is that? However, sometimes we all find the need to get in there and dig things out even though we really don’t need to because ears clean themselves. So let’s go over some ear cleaning don’ts to ensure you don’t make a mistake and harm your ears or hearing.

• DO NOT use Q-tips. Yes Q-tips are amazing little cleaning devices, but with that being said, they are bad news when it comes to cleaning your ears. Yes they may fit perfectly into your ear canal, but they can spell bad news when used. Q-tips are great for cleaning your outer ear ONLY. They can get into all the little nooks and cranny’s of your outer and cleans out all the dirt and debris there, but they should never be used inside your ear. They can move wax further down into your ear canal causing a blockage of your ear canal making it harder for you to hear. They can also push the wax so hard that it could perforate your eardrum. A Q-tip itself can perforate your eardrum if pushed in too far.
• DO NOT do use ear candles. Ear candling may seem like a great way to clean out your ears, but it honestly is not and is very dangerous. Ear candling does not do what it says it does; it does not remove wax build-up from your ears. Not only that but there is an increased risk of infection and damage to your ear canal and eardrum. Perforation of the eardrum is all too common this this technique and is so dangerous. Please do not do this.
• DO NOT use home ear cleaning devices. Do not use over the counter home ear cleaning devices. They are dangerous and could cause serious irreversible damage to your ears.

If you feel that you have problems with earwax build-up see your family doctor or a hearing health professional. They will be able to look at your ear and properly assess the situation. If cleaning needs to be done they will be able to properly and safely clean out your ears. They will also be able to help you in preventing future blockages or build-up. For your ear’s safety always see a professional when it comes to cleaning your ears.