Many people view ear wax as a problem or a nuisance to be eliminated regularly. According to MedlinePlus, a publication of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, though, ear wax actually protects your ears by trapping dust, bacteria and other potential detrimental particles. Even when ear wax is excessive, incorrect cleaning can push the wax deeper into the canal. There are home remedies for removing excess wax, when necessary.
Irrigation
If the earwax is not too severely compacted, irrigating the affected ear may be sufficient to remove excess wax. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends using body-temperature water, as flushing your ears with water that is too cool or hot can cause vertigo. Stand in the shower with your head turned to the side so that the water can run into your ear, or use a bulb syringe to flood your ear with water. Tilt your head so that the water and any loosened wax can drain. Dry your ear thoroughly after irrigating it to prevent bacteria growths or an infection. Use a hair dryer on a low setting or a few drops of rubbing alcohol to ensure dryness.
Hydrogen Peroxide
For recurring earwax buildup, the University of Virginia's Elson Student Health Center suggests applying a hydrogen peroxide solution regularly to dissolve excess wax. Combine one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water. Lie on your side and drop some of the mixture into your ear with an eyedropper or bulb syringe. Lie still for about 15 minutes to allow the mixture to drain into your ear through and around any wax that is present. Tilt over a sink or container to drain the solution and wax. Flush with water as listed in the previous section and dry thoroughly. Perform daily for three or four days to remove excessive wax.
Oils
Softening hard or compacted earwax makes it easier to clean away. MedlinePlus recommends dropping baby oil, mineral oil or glycerin into the affected ear to lubricate the wax. You may also wish to soak cotton balls in the oil and insert them into your outer ear. Allow the oil to saturate your ear canal for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse away the oil and wax as previously described and dry your ears well.
