Keeping your ears clean is important for your hearing health, but did you know that most people clean their ears the wrong way? At RK Audiology in Austin, TX, we want to help you understand the best way to clean ears safely without pushing wax deeper into the canal.
Why Is Ear Cleaning Important?
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is something your body naturally produces. It may seem dirty, but earwax actually has an important job. It helps trap dust, dirt, and other particles, keeping them from going deeper into your ears. Ear wax also helps protect the skin in your ear canal from getting too dry and can even prevent infections. Most of the time, your ears do a good job of cleaning themselves. The wax moves slowly from the inside of your ear to the outside, where it can be wiped away.
However, sometimes ear wax can build up and cause problems. If too much ear wax collects in your ear, it can cause your ear to feel full or blocked. You might even have trouble hearing. If you are wondering what is the best way to clean your ears when wax builds up, the answer depends on how much wax is present and whether you have pain, hearing changes, or other symptoms.
What Should You Avoid?
Before we explain how to clean ears safely, let’s discuss what you should avoid. The most important thing to remember is:
Do not use cotton swabs (like Q-tips) to clean the inside of your ears. Many people use cotton swabs to try to remove ear wax, but this can actually push the wax deeper into your ear. This can cause a blockage, making it harder to hear, and might even hurt your ear.
You should also avoid using sharp objects, like bobby pins or paper clips, to clean your ears. These can scratch the inside of your ear or even puncture your eardrum, which can be very painful and dangerous.
How to Properly Clean Ears
Here are some safe ways to clean your ears that are recommended by the experts at RK Audiology.
- Use a Warm, Damp Cloth
Knowing how to properly clean your ears starts with cleaning only the outer ear using a warm, damp cloth. After a shower, gently wipe the outer part of your ear with the cloth. This will help remove any ear wax that has moved to the outside of your ear. Remember, you don’t need to put the cloth inside your ear—just clean the outside.
- Ear Drops
If you’re wondering how to remove ear wax at home, over-the-counter ear drops may help soften mild buildup so it can come out more easily. You can find these drops at most drugstores. Follow the instructions on the package, and tilt your head to the side while you put the drops in your ear. After using the drops, you might want to sit with your head tilted for a few minutes to let them work. Then, gently wipe away any softened wax that comes out with a cloth.
- Ear Irrigation
To understand how to clean out ear wax, it helps to know how ear irrigation works. This method uses water to flush softened wax from the ear canal. You can buy a kit at the store that includes a small bulb syringe. To use it, fill the syringe with warm water (not too hot or cold), tilt your head, and gently squirt the water into your ear. The water will help wash out the earwax. Be gentle, and never force the water into your ear. Afterward, tilt your head to let the water and wax drain out, and dry your ear with a cloth.
- Visit an Audiologist
If you have a lot of ear wax buildup or if your ears feel blocked, the safest option is to visit an audiologist. At RK Audiology in Austin, we have the tools and experience to clean your ears safely. We can remove ear wax using special instruments, suction, or irrigation, depending on what’s best for your ears. We provide expert ear wax removal in Austin, TX.
When to See An Audiologist
There are times when it’s important to see a professional for ear cleaning. If you have pain in your ear, trouble hearing, or a feeling of fullness in your ear that doesn’t go away, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with an audiologist. Sometimes, ear wax can get impacted, meaning it’s stuck deep inside your ear and needs to be removed by a professional.
At RK Audiology in Westlake and South Austin, we’re here to help you with all your ear care needs. Whether you need a simple ear cleaning or have questions about your hearing health, our friendly team is ready to assist you.
Professional Ear Wax Removal in Austin, TX
Cleaning your ears is important, but it’s just as important to do it safely. Avoid using cotton swabs and sharp objects, and try gentle methods like using a warm cloth, ear drops, or ear irrigation. If you’re ever unsure or if you have a lot of ear wax buildup, don’t hesitate to visit an audiologist.
RK Audiology has audiologists providing ear wax removal in Austin, TX. We’re here to help keep your ears healthy and your hearing sharp.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!