How to Remove Deep Ear Wax

Earwax, which is otherwise known as cerumen, is a substance created in the ear to protect the delicate inner ear from dirt, debris and the possible spread of bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic. Unfortunately, after time cerumen can build up in the ear canal, which can lead to an earache and trouble hearing from the affected ear. Visible wax can be removed with a cotton swab. Deeper earwax can be removed at home safely in a matter of days.

Things You'll Need

  • Eyedropper
  • Mineral oil or baby oil
  • Bulb syringe
  • Warm water
  • Towel
  • Soft towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill an eyedropper with baby oil or mineral oil.

    • 2

      Tilt your head so that the affected ear is up, and place two to three drops of the oil into the ear.

    • 3

      Holding your head tilted, allow the oil to remain in the ear for five minutes. Remove the oil by tilting the head in the opposite direction and allow the oil to fall into a small bowl or sink.

    • 4

      Repeat this process twice a day for two days.

    • 5

      Fill a bulb syringe with warm water after the last drops of oil have been placed and allow to sit in the ear on the final days. The water should be warm to the touch, not hot.

    • 6

      Tilting your head slightly so that the affected ear is pointing up, squeeze the water from the syringe into the affected ear. Hold your head over a sink or towel to prevent causing a mess.

    • 7

      Continue to squeeze warm water into the ear until small chunks of earwax begin to fall out. This could take several minutes.

    • 8

      Tilt the head with the affected ear down. This will allow the water to drain from the ear. Once again, hold your head over a sink or towel to avoid creating a mess.

    • 9

      Dry the outer ear carefully with a soft towel.

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