How to clean your ears and keep them healthy: tips for optimal ear care

Q: Can I use an ear wax cleaning kit at home?

You can use an ear wax cleaning kit, but always follow instructions carefully. For safe results, it’s often better to use ear drops for wax cleaning or consult a professional, especially if you have sensitive ears or a history of ear issues.

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Healthy ears: hints and tips

A healthy ear is clean, free from pain or discharge, and does not produce excessive wax. Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance that protects your ear canal and keeps it moisturised. Not all wax needs to be removed, but knowing the healthy ear wax colour can help you spot potential problems. Typically, healthy wax ranges from light yellow to brown.

Taking the time to care for your ears is an important part of any daily routine. Easily impacted by bad habits, a little extra care and a few preventative steps can ensure that your ears remain clean, healthy and in the best shape possible.

How to clean your ears safely

The best way to clean ear wax without causing damage is to be gentle and cautious:

Avoid using cotton buds deep in the ear canal as this can push wax further in or damage the eardrum.
Use a clear ear spray or soft ear drops for wax cleaning, as recommended by a professional.
Consider a professional ear cleaning if wax buildup is persistent or uncomfortable.
You can also use an ear wax cleaning kit at home, but always follow instructions carefully to prevent injury.
Don't ignore ear problems, they won't improve without the right treatment. The longer you leave an ear problem, the longer it may take to treat.

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Protecting your hearing at work: tips and expert advice

If you think your hearing may be affected by noise at work, the best place to start is by talking to your employer, to assess and control the risks. As a general guide, you shouldn't have to work without ear protection, with noise levels at work that are louder than a busy street.

If you experience any loss of hearing, our expert hearing care professionals have the knowledge and experience to answer any questions you may have and advise you on how to protect your hearing. If further attention is needed they can also provide a full comprehensive hearing test to understand any hearing loss.

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Discover and explore our range of ear protection devices including noise-cancelling earplugs, ear defenders and headphones that can help protect your hearing in a wide range of environments.

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How often should you clean your ears?

For most people, the ear is self-cleaning, and frequent removal of wax is unnecessary. Ask your audiologist or doctor how often should you clean your ears based on your individual needs. Over-cleaning can cause irritation or even infections.

Professional ear cleaning

If you experience discomfort, hearing difficulty, or impacted wax, seek professional ear cleaning. A professional can safely remove wax and check for any signs of infection. We recommend Attune Hearing for this service, who offer a combined ear wax removal and ear health check service.

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FAQs on how to clean and keep your ears healthy

How do I clean my ears safely?

To keep your ears healthy, the best way to clean ears is gently and carefully. Avoid inserting cotton buds deep into the ear canal. Instead, you can use a clear ear spray or ear drops for wax cleaning. For persistent or impacted wax, consider a professional ear cleaning service.

Where do I get my ears cleaned professionally?

If you have impacted wax or other ear concerns, seek professional ear cleaning. We recommend Attune Hearing, who offer combined wax removal and ear health check appointments. Other audiology or medical clinics may offer this service.

Can diet help maintain healthy ears?

Yes, eating the right foods supports ear health. Consider foods for healthy ears such as omega-3 rich fish, nuts and seeds, leafy green vegetables, and antioxidant-rich fruits. A balanced diet complements proper ear hygiene and helps protect your hearing.

Can I use an ear wax cleaning kit at home?

You can use an ear wax cleaning kit, but always follow instructions carefully. For safe results, it’s often better to use ear drops for wax cleaning or consult a professional, especially if you have sensitive ears or a history of ear issues.

How can I clean my ears at home naturally?

Cleaning your ears at home naturally is possible with gentle methods that won’t damage your ear canal or eardrum. Here are safe tips:

Use warm water: During a shower, let warm water gently run into your ear and tilt your head to allow it to drain out.
Soft ear drops: Natural oil-based drops, such as olive oil or mineral oil, can soften ear wax for easier removal. Apply a few drops with a clean dropper.
Avoid cotton buds: Do not insert cotton buds or objects deep into your ear canal, as this can push wax further in or cause injury.
Ear cleaning kits: Some kits provide safe irrigation, but follow instructions carefully and avoid excessive pressure.
Tip: If wax buildup persists, seek a professional ear cleaning to protect your ears and hearing.