You can get rid of any ear wax buildup at home with a dropper and hydrogen peroxide. This substance kills germs on contact, so it can also be used to sanitize your ears. Because hydrogen peroxide kills germs, expect some mild stinging when inserting it into your ears.
Step 1
Fold a thick towel on the bed or the floor, then draw some hydrogen peroxide up into the medicine dropper. Lie down, then have your helper insert the dropper into the opening of your ear and squeeze the hydrogen peroxide slowly into your ear canal.
Step 2
Allow the hydrogen peroxide to do its work. When the fizzing sound stops, add another dropperful of peroxide into your ear. The idea is to keep your ear full of hydrogen peroxide so it can work on softening the wax in your ear. After 10 to 15 minutes, roll over carefully and shake the liquid out of your ear.
Step 3
Turn over and repeat this procedure on your other ear.
Step 4
Repeat the cleaning process the next day.
Tips and Warnings
- If you feel or hear a "slushing" sound in your ear, this is normal. The hydrogen peroxide is softening the wax, but hasn't had enough time to completely do its work. Give it a little more time--five additional minutes--then turn over and allow the wax and hydrogen peroxide to come out.
- Don't try this treatment if you're experiencing ear or jaw pain. If you're planning to fly anywhere, don't do this treatment for a few days before you leave. The change in air pressure could affect your ears. This article is not intended to substitute for medical advice. Seek the advice of your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Thick towel
- Dropper or syringe
- 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
- Helper
