Our bodies are incredible systems, built by nature to repair and maintain themselves. Throughout human evolution, we’ve created countless tools to improve our lives and extend our lifespan. But even today, the idea of a self-cleaning body part – like your ears – still surprises many people. We keep reaching for cotton swabs without realizing the harm we might be causing.
Your ears aren’t just for hearing – they’re a self-sustaining system. Still, millions of people use cotton swabs, inserting them deep into the ear canal to try and clean out wax. But do we really need to do this? And if so, what’s the safest way to clean your ears?
Earwax: Gross or Good?
Before diving into cleaning methods, it’s important to understand what earwax is and why we have it in the first place.
Earwax – also called cerumen – is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear. It serves several key purposes:
- Blocks dust, dirt, and bacteria from entering the ear
- Has built-in antimicrobial properties
- Lubricates the ear canal to prevent dryness and itching
- Helps the ear clean itself: jaw movement from talking or chewing gradually pushes wax outward
In other words, healthy ears usually clean themselves without help. But what if wax starts to build up, harden, or become uncomfortable?
What NOT to Do? ❌
The biggest mistake? Using cotton swabs. Despite being labeled “ear wands” and sold everywhere, they’re not meant to go inside your ears.
Why? Because:
- They can push wax deeper, forming blockages
- They may damage the sensitive skin in your ear canal
- They can cause tiny injuries that lead to infections
- In rare cases, they can even rupture the eardrum
As the American Academy of Otolaryngology puts it: “Don’t put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear.” It’s an exaggeration – but it drives the point home.
So What Should You Use? ✅
Here are a few safe and effective ways to care for your ears:
- Warm Water
Sometimes a regular shower is all you need. Warm water can naturally enter the ear and soften wax. Afterward, gently pat the outside of your ears with a towel – never go inside. - Wax-Softening Drops
Available over-the-counter, these drops – usually made with hydrogen peroxide, oil, or glycerin – can help soften wax so it exits naturally. Use them once or twice a week. Popular options include: Remo-Vax, A-Cerumen, Otipax (in some cases). Always follow the instructions on the label. - Natural Oils
Some people use: Almond oil, Olive oil, Coconut oil. Just warm a few drops to body temperature, apply them to your ear, and lie on your side for 5–10 minutes. This helps soften stubborn wax. - Ear Irrigation
You can try using a bulb syringe or a pharmacy ear irrigation kit with warm water. Keep in mind: Never use cold water – it may cause dizziness; Don’t do this if you suspect a ruptured eardrum; It’s safer to let a healthcare provider handle it. If you’re looking for professional ear cleaning in Calgary, our clinic Kirkyzacoustix offers safe and effective irrigation or microsuction techniques done by trained specialists. - See a Professional
If you’re dealing with: Blocked ears / Hearing loss / Ringing in the ears / Headaches. You may have a wax blockage. In that case, book a visit with an audiologist or ENT specialist. They use safe techniques like irrigation, microscopic removal, or suction. It’s quick, painless, and very effective. A trusted Calgary hearing loss clinic can evaluate not just wax buildup but also potential underlying hearing concerns, offering a full spectrum of care tailored to your needs.
Other Things to Avoid
- Ear candles – They’re not just ineffective, they’re dangerous (burns, blockages, injuries).
- Random objects – Hairpins, matches, pens? A big no.
- Over-cleaning – Even safe methods should be limited to once a week.
Bottom Line
- Earwax protects your ears – it’s not the enemy
- Cotton swabs do more harm than good
- Use gentle drops, oils, or warm water instead
- When in doubt, talk to a doctor
- Don’t “clean” your ears – care for them wisely
Your hearing is one of your most valuable connections to the world – treat it with care.
