Many people believe that using cotton buds (also known as Q-tips) is an effective way to clean their ears. However, this common practice can do more harm than good, often leading to earwax impaction, infections, and even damage to the delicate structures of the ear. In this blog, we’ll explore the dangers of DIY earwax removal, explain why professional ear cleaning is the safest option, and discuss alternative methods for maintaining good ear hygiene.
The misconception that earwax is “dirty” or a sign of poor hygiene leads many people to try and remove it themselves. Since cotton buds are widely available and marketed as multi-purpose cleaning tools, they often become the go-to option for ear cleaning. However, what many people don’t realize is that inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal does not actually remove earwax effectively—it often makes the problem worse.
Instead of removing earwax, cotton buds tend to push it further down the ear canal, leading to impaction. This makes it harder for the ear to naturally expel wax, resulting in a blocked ear and reduced hearing.
The eardrum is a delicate membrane that can be easily punctured if a cotton bud is inserted too deeply. A perforated eardrum can cause pain, hearing loss, and even lead to more serious complications such as infections.
Using cotton buds can introduce bacteria into the ear canal, increasing the likelihood of infections such as otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) or otitis media. When the delicate skin inside the ear canal gets irritated or scratched, it becomes more susceptible to bacterial or fungal growth.
Cotton buds can leave behind small fibers that accumulate inside the ear canal. Over time, these fibers can contribute to blockages and irritation, leading to discomfort or inflammation.
When earwax gets pushed deeper and impacts against the eardrum, it can create a sensation of fullness, muffled hearing, or even ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Many people experiencing these symptoms don’t realize that improper ear cleaning methods may be the cause.
The safest and most effective way to deal with earwax buildup is to consult a professional audiologist or ear specialist. At Hazelwood Hearcare, we offer microsuction earwax removal, which is the gold standard for safely clearing excess wax.
Microsuction is:
If you want to maintain ear hygiene without the risks of cotton buds, consider these safer methods:
Applying medical-grade olive oil or ear drops once or twice a week can help soften earwax so it naturally exits the ear without intervention.
Scheduling regular ear health check-ups with a specialist can prevent excessive wax buildup and ensure your ears are clear and healthy.
Steer clear of home remedies like ear candles, hydrogen peroxide flushing, or inserting random objects like hairpins or paperclips into the ear canal.
If you’re experiencing ear discomfort, blocked ears, or hearing loss, don’t attempt to remove earwax yourself. Let our specialists at Hazelwood Hearcare help you with professional microsuction earwax removal.
Visit Hazelwood Hearcare to book an appointment online or call 07436717303 to speak with one of our audiologists. Protect your hearing and keep your ears healthy the right way!
