How to Remove Ear Wax Through Irrigation

Earwax is a necessary and natural part of life, as it protects your ear canals and eardrums. Excessive earwax can create hearing problems, however, and irrigation is the method that both the National Institutes of Health and the UK's National Health Service suggest for home use. It is simple, inexpensive and may only require items you already have in your house. The sensation of water in your ear will feel as unpleasant as you remember, but keep in mind that it will be over quickly and will likely give you immediate relief.

Things You'll Need

• Syringe
• Lukewarm water
• Liquid measuring cup
• Eyedropper
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Sink

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix 3 drops of hydrogen peroxide into one cup of lukewarm water. Touch the water with your fingers; if it does not feel warm or cold, it is considered lukewarm (about body temperature).

• 2

  Fill the syringe with the water/peroxide mixture. Flick it gently with your finger to dislodge any air bubbles.

• 3

  Hold your head up straight and pull your hair out of the way. Pull the outside part of your ear straight up, gently; this helps to straighten the ear canal and guide the fluid.

• 4

  Squirt the lukewarm water/peroxide mixture into your ear with the syringe.

• 5

  Tilt your head over the sink so that the peroxide/water mixture runs out of your ear. Watch for wax particles, which are usually yellow or orange. Shake your head if necessary to remove all the water.

• 6

  Repeat the process if the wax does not come out the first time. If it still does not come out after a couple more attempts, or if you notice any pain or unusual discomfort, contact your doctor.