Excessive earwax production can cause wax to harden in the ear canal, causing pain and irritation. This increases the risk for ear infection and hearing difficulty. Wax may also block the ear canal when improper ear cleansing pushes it farther into the ear, forming a plug. Removing the wax can be accomplished by softening the wax plug and allowing it to drain on its own. You can soften the wax to provide relief.
Step 1
Apply 4 to 5 drops of of olive oil, baby oil, mineral oil or glycerin with an eyedropper nightly for three or four days. The oil will coat the ear wax and cause it to soften as long as it remains in the ear. You can buy eyedroppers at a pharmacy.
Step 2
Place a cotton ball soaked in your chosen oil inside the outer ear. This keeps the oil inside the ear, preventing leakage. Leave it in place overnight and dispose of the cotton ball in the morning.
Step 3
Add a few drops of vinegar to warm water for an ear flush. Do this after three to four days of treating the ear with oil. Vinegar prevents bacterial growth, reducing risk of ear infection and swimmer's ear.
Step 4
Flush the ear with the warm water and vinegar using the eyedropper. Keep flushing until you see wax draining from the ear onto a clean towel or napkin.
Things You'll Need
- Olive oil, baby oil, mineral oil or glycerin
- Eyedropper
- Cotton balls
- Vinegar
- Clean white towel or paper napkin
