The expression that you should never put anything in your ear that's smaller than your elbow is similar to the advice you'll get from the professionals. The American Academy of Otolaryngology says items such as cotton swabs should never be used to clear the ears because they can actually push the wax further in the ear, possibly causing blockage. Instead, a hydrogen peroxide solution can safely be used to dissolve wax buildup in the ears.
Step 1
Fill a clean medicine dropper with hydrogen peroxide.
Step 2
Lay down on your side, with your ear facing up.
Step 3
Place a few drops of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide in your ear, remaining still for a few minutes to allow it to work its way into the ear canal. You may feel a bubbling sensation. This is normal as the peroxide softens and dissolves the earwax.
Step 4
Sit up and wipe away any excess hydrogen peroxide with a clean cloth or towel.
Step 5
Lie down on your side again, this time with your other ear facing up.
Step 6
Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with your other ear.
Tips and Warnings
- If possible, it may be easier to have someone else actually place the hydrogen peroxide drops in your ear. If no hydrogen peroxide is available, you can also use carbamide peroxide or other common household products such as mineral oil or baby oil to clean wax from the ears, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngologists. If it still feels as though wax is built up in the ear canal after using peroxide to remove it, consult with your doctor. It may be necessary to have it suctioned or irrigated to remove all the wax.
- Never use hydrogen peroxide or any other solution to clean your ears if you have a perforated eardrum, according to MedLine Plus. Always allow the peroxide to reach room temperature before placing it in the ear canal. If the liquid is too hot or too cold, it could cause vertigo or dizziness.
Things You'll Need
- Medicine dropper
- 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution
- Cloth or towel
