How do you clean your ears safely at home?

Your ears are largely self-cleaning, so for everyday care you generally only need to wipe the outer ear with a damp cloth. Never insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal, as this can push wax in or damage the eardrum. If wax is causing a blockage, ask your GP or a trained professional about removal.

Cleaning the outer ear safely

Your ear largely cleans itself. For everyday hygiene, wipe the outer ear (the visible part) with a damp cloth or tissue after a shower. There is no need to clean inside the ear canal itself under normal circumstances, since wax naturally migrates outward over time.

Should you remove ear wax at home?

Home methods are not recommended for removing ear wax. If your ear feels blocked or painful, or you have a perforated eardrum or grommets, see your GP or a trained professional. Professional removal, such as micro-suction, is an option where wax is causing a blockage.

What to avoid: cotton buds and ear candles

• Cotton buds. Push wax deeper into the canal and can scratch the skin or damage the eardrum.
• Ear candles. Not supported by evidence and can cause burns or push debris further in.
• Sharp objects, hairpins or fingers. Never insert anything into the ear canal.
• Forceful ear irrigation kits at home, without professional guidance, which can cause injury if used incorrectly.

When should you see an audiologist about ear wax?

If your ear feels blocked, becomes painful, or you have a history of eardrum perforation, grommets or ear surgery, see your GP or book a professional appointment. Micro-suction is a professional method of ear wax removal.

For more information, visit Healthdirect (healthdirect.gov.au) (opens in a new tab).

Sources: Healthdirect; Mayo Clinic. Information current July 2026 and general in nature.