How to Clean Your Ears – Safely

Cleaning your ears so9unds like a no-brainer, right?  But you can injure your ear canal or eardrum if you don’t do it correctly.  Here’s how to do it safely:

  • Wipe the outer ear with a washcloth.  Do not put anything into your ear smaller than your elbow.  Don’t use Q-tips or sharp, pointed objects to clean your ears.  These objects may cause injury.
  • Ask your doctor about methods that allow you to safely remove small amounts of ear wax at home (with hydrogen peroxide or ear-wax drops, which are available at your pharmacy).  If you have a build-up of wax that is blocking your hearing, see your doctor to have it removed.
  • If you experience itching or pain in your ears, see your doctor.

Source:  Cleveland Clinic