Clean Less, Hear Better: The Truth About Ear Cleaning

What Actually Keeps Your Ears Healthy?

At Aurora Audiology, one of the most common questions we’re asked is: “How should I clean my ears properly?”

The answer often surprises people. In fact, over-cleaning is one of the main reasons people end up needing professional ear wax removal.

This guide brings together best practice from experienced audiologists and recognised clinical guidance to explain how to look after your ears safely and effectively.

Your ears are designed to clean themselves

Earwax (cerumen) is normal, healthy, and protective.

It:

• Traps dust and debris

• Has natural antibacterial properties

• Protects the delicate skin of the ear canal

The ear canal has a built-in cleaning system. As skin renews itself and your jaw moves (talking, chewing), wax slowly migrates outwards, away from the eardrum.

For most people, no routine cleaning of the ear canal is needed at all.

If wax isn’t causing symptoms, it’s usually best left alone.

Clean only what you can see

The only part of the ear that should be cleaned regularly is the outer ear.

Best practice:

• Use a damp cloth or towel

• Clean the visible outer ear (pinna)

• Dry gently after bathing or swimming

Do not insert anything into the ear canal.

A long-standing rule taught in audiology and ENT training:

Never put anything in your ear smaller than your elbow.

Why cotton buds cause more problems, not fewer

Cotton buds are one of the leading causes of earwax impaction seen in clinic.

They:

• Push wax deeper into the ear canal

• Compact wax against the eardrum

• Increase the risk of infection and injury

Many people who “clean their ears regularly” are the same people who need repeated wax removal.

Using cotton buds makes earwax problems more likely, not less.

When ear drops are appropriate

Ear drops should be used only when there are symptoms, not as part of routine hygiene.

Appropriate reasons to use drops:

• A blocked or muffled sensation

• Recurrent wax build-up

• Hearing aid users with wax blocking devices

What we usually recommend:

• Olive oil (spray or drops)

• Pharmacy wax-softening drops

How to use them correctly:

• 1–2 sprays or drops

• Once daily

• For 3–5 days only

Using drops for longer than this can irritate the ear canal and increase infection risk.

Why home ear syringing is no longer advised

DIY ear syringing kits are still widely sold, but they are increasingly discouraged.

They can:

• Damage the ear canal

• Cause infections

• Worsen impaction

• Perforate the eardrum

They should never be used if you’ve ever had:

• A perforated eardrum

• Ear surgery

• Ongoing ear problems

At Aurora Audiology, we follow modern best practice:➡️ Microsuction under direct vision, performed safely and comfortably.

Extra advice for hearing aid & earbud users

Wearing devices in the ear can block natural wax migration, making build-up more likely.

Helpful habits:

• Clean hearing aids daily

• Change wax guards as advised

• Avoid wearing devices longer than needed

• Use drops only if symptoms develop

Wax build-up in hearing aid users is mechanical, not a sign of poor hygiene.

Swimming, moisture, and ear health

Moisture trapped in the ear canal increases the risk of outer ear infections.

After swimming or showering:

• Tilt your head to let water drain

• Dry the outer ear gently with a towel

• Avoid tissues or cotton buds inside the ear

If you’re prone to ear infections, professional advice is recommended before using any sprays or drops.

When to book an appointment

You should seek professional assessment if you experience:

• Persistent blocked ears

• Pain, discharge, or smell

• Sudden hearing changes

• Dizziness or vertigo

• One-sided tinnitus

• Wax not improving with drops

Early assessment prevents small problems becoming bigger ones.

The Aurora Audiology approach

Healthy ears usually need less intervention, not more.

Our advice is simple:

• Let ears self-clean

• Clean the outside only

• Avoid putting objects in the canal

• Use drops sparingly and intentionally

• Get symptoms checked professionally

If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to advise.

📞 Book an appointment or give us a call

Concerned about blocked ears or earwax? Book a professional ear examination or microsuction appointment with Aurora Audiology today.