Devices to Remove Ear Wax

The ear allows one to hear and uses the earwax inside as a type of self-cleaning mechanism. When earwax builds up and becomes a problem, there are a few devices you can use to safely remove excess earwax from the ear. Occasional, careful cleaning of excess wax keeps the ears healthy.

Syringe

• A syringe may be helpful in gently removing earwax.

  A syringe for irrigation is a gentle method of removing earwax from the ear. A syringe is filled with a solution of saline and lukewarm water. The syringe is placed into the ear and the solution is pumped in, then gently removed from the ear canal.

Drops

• Mineral oil can be used to remove troublesome earwax buildup.

  Drops of mineral oil, baby oil, or hydrogen peroxide can be dropped into the ear canal to loosen wax or blockages. Allow the drops of oil or peroxide to sit in the canal for a few minutes before removing. The oil or peroxide can be removed by tilting the head and allowing the substance to drip out.

Curette

• A curette is a device to be used only by a medical professional for the removal of earwax. A curette is a small ear spoon that scrapes the excess or impacted earwax out of the ear canal. The use of a curette can be a bit unpleasant, or even painful, but it is usually successful in removing earwax.