The correct way to clean your ears (and what to avoid)

Many people believe cleaning their ears regularly is an essential part of personal hygiene. From cotton buds to hairpins and even keys, people often use a variety of objects to remove earwax.

However, ENT specialists say this common habit can actually damage the ear rather than keep it clean.

According to Dr Narendranath A, Consultant, ENT, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru, the ear is designed to clean itself naturally, and in most cases, it does not require cleaning deep inside the ear canal.

Earwax is not dirt

One of the biggest misconceptions about ear hygiene is that earwax is something that needs to be removed regularly.

"The ear is a self-cleaning organ and, in most people, the body naturally pushes old earwax outwards," says Dr Narendranath.

He explains that earwax performs several important functions.

"Earwax is not dirt. It forms a hydrophobic layer and has a very important function. It traps dust, bacteria, insects and foreign particles, helps clear accidental water entry, helps prevent the growth of fungal infections in the ear, and also lubricates and protects the ear canal."

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Rather than being harmful, earwax acts as the ear's natural defence mechanism.

The biggest ear-cleaning mistake people make

Dr Narendranath warns that inserting objects into the ear canal is one of the most common causes of ear injuries seen by ENT specialists.

"The biggest mistake that people make is trying to clean deep inside the ear with cotton buds, hairpins, keys, earbuds or other sharp objects, which can do more harm than good."

Cotton buds, in particular, often push earwax deeper into the ear canal instead of removing it, increasing the risk of wax impaction and injury.

How to clean your ears safely

According to the doctor, ear cleaning should be limited to the visible outer part of the ear.

He recommends cleaning only the outside of the ear (pinna) and the area around the ear opening with a soft, damp cloth while bathing.

Allowing normal bathing and washing to clean the external ear naturally.

Avoiding forcefully directing water into the ear canal.

"The safest rule is simple: clean what you can see and leave the inside of the ear alone unless symptoms develop," he advises.

When should you see an ENT specialist?

Most people do not need routine earwax removal. However, medical attention may be necessary if wax builds up and begins causing symptoms.

Dr Narendranath recommends consulting an ENT specialist if you experience reduced hearing, a feeling of fullness in the ear, persistent itching, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and ear discomfort or pain.

"If wax build-up causes symptoms such as reduced hearing, fullness in the ear, itching, ringing sensation or discomfort, consult an ENT specialist instead of attempting self-removal."

He adds that doctors may recommend wax-softening drops or perform safe ear-cleaning procedures when necessary.

What you should never put in your ears

The doctor strongly advises against using objects or unproven remedies to remove earwax.

"Do not put cotton buds, metal objects, candles, ear-picking devices or unproven home remedies in the ear canal."

He explains that over-cleaning can also strip away the ear's natural protective barrier.

"Cotton buds can push wax further in rather than removing it and can injure the delicate ear canal or eardrum. Over-cleaning can also strip away the natural protective layer of the ear, resulting in greater irritation and infections."