Ear wax helps to prevent foreign objects from entering the ear, but it can also affect hearing and cause irritation if it builds up and blocks the eardrum. If your ear feels itchy or clogged, you most likely have an ear wax blockage. You can treat an ear wax blockage at home by using a 3 percent solution of hydrogen peroxide, available over-the-counter at most drugstores and grocery stores. If you are still having ear wax blockage after using hydrogen peroxide for several days, consult a doctor.
Step 1
Pour equal amounts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and room-temperature water into a clean drinking glass. Placing water that is too cold directly into the ear may cause dizziness.
Step 2
Place a clean eyedropper into the mixture and press the plunger.
Step 3
Remove the eyedropper from the mixture and tilt your head so your afflicted ear is pointing towards the ceiling.
Step 4
Carefully place the eyedropper at the outside of the ear, then squeeze a few drops of the peroxide mixture directly into the ear.
Step 5
Hold your head in a tilted position for three minutes, then relax your neck and shake out the excess liquid from your ear.
Step 6
Repeat every day for up to a week to soften the ear wax blockage, as suggested by the Mayo Clinic.
Tips and Warnings
- If you don't have hydrogen peroxide, use mineral oil or baby oil, as suggested by the Mayo Clinic.
- If the ear wax blockage has not dissolved within one week, consult a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Water
- Drinking glass
- Eye dropper
