Ear Cleaning | The Safe Way to Care for Your Ears in Woodbury, CT | Naugatuck Valley Ear, Nose, and Throat Associates (NVENTA)

When it comes to ear hygiene, many people assume they need to clean their ears regularly, often with cotton swabs. But did you know your ears are actually designed to clean themselves? Improper cleaning can do more harm than good, increasing the risk of wax buildup, irritation, or even injury. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your ears clean safely.

Why Earwax Isn’t a Bad Thing

Earwax (cerumen) plays an important role in ear health. It:

Traps dust, debris, and bacteria
Helps keep the ear canal moisturized
Protects against infection

In most cases, jaw movements from talking and chewing naturally move wax out of the ear canal, where it dries and flakes away on its own.

The Problem with Cotton Swabs

Although cotton swabs are commonly used to clean ears, they are not recommended for use inside the ear canal. Rather than removing wax, they often push it deeper into the ear, which can lead to impacted earwax and blocked hearing. Cotton swabs can also irritate or scratch the delicate skin of the ear canal, increasing the risk of infection. If inserted too far, they may even damage the eardrum. Even when a swab appears clean after use, wax may simply have been pushed farther inside, where it can build up and cause problems over time.

Safe Ways to Clean Your Ears

For most people, minimal cleaning is best. Try these safer options:

1. Clean only the outer ear — Use a warm, damp washcloth to gently clean the outside of the ear and the opening of the ear canal during your regular shower or bath.

2. Let warm water help — While showering, allow warm (not hot) water to rinse the outer ear. Tilt your head afterward to let water drain out, and dry gently with a towel.

3. Use ear drops if needed — Over-the-counter wax-softening drops (such as saline or mineral oil–based drops) can help loosen excess wax. These should be used only as directed.

4. See a professional for buildup — If you feel fullness, muffled hearing, or discomfort, a healthcare provider can safely remove earwax using specialized tools or gentle irrigation.

What Not to Put in Your Ears

Avoid inserting:

Cotton swabs
Hairpins or paper clips
Tissues or napkins
Candles (ear candling is unsafe and ineffective)

These methods can cause burns, infections, or damage to the ear canal and eardrum.

The Bottom Line

Your ears usually don’t need much help staying clean. Focus on gentle outer-ear hygiene and avoid putting objects inside the ear canal. If wax buildup becomes a problem, professional removal is the safest option.

When it comes to ear care, remember: nothing smaller than your elbow belongs in your ear.

Seeking Help & Treatment

If you experience persistent ear pain, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or sudden or gradual hearing loss, it may be time to seek medical care. Ringing in the ears, dizziness, or fluid draining from the ear can also be signs of a problem that should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. These symptoms may indicate impacted earwax, infection, or another underlying ear condition that requires professional treatment rather than home remedies.

At Naugatuck Valley Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, we are committed to delivering exceptional ENT care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. Our experienced providers and dedicated support staff prioritize your health, comfort, and well-being at every visit. We strive to ensure you receive the highest-quality diagnosis and treatment, empowering you with the knowledge and care you need to make informed decisions about your health. Whether addressing sinus concerns, hearing issues, or throat conditions, our team works together to provide personalized solutions that enhance your quality of life. Your trust is our top priority, and we are here to support you on your journey to better health. Contact us today at (203) 578-4630 to schedule a consultation.

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