What is the proper way to clean your ear?

Question

i heard that using just a q-tip pushing the earwax back in...

Answer 1

Well, this is not exactly an etiquette question, unless the proper answer is "not in public." :-)

Peroxide is one way to do it. There's also a liquid you can buy in drug stores that comes in a tiny bottle (face it, a little goes a long way). I don't know what's in it, but it's not peroxide, it's kind of greasy feeling. It does the job very well, probably quicker than peroxide if the wax is built up.

And they do say on the Q-tip package never to let the thing enter the ear canal! Good advice, which is ignored by 95% of the population - including me. I mean, you need to use something like a Q-tip after you use peroxide or the stuff from the drug store to clean the loosened gunk out.

Answer 2

Never, ever use a Qtip, nor a bobby pin.

You can buy earwax removal products over the counter. Sold under different brand names,, but all seem to have the same ingredients.

Hint: Put the tiny plastic bottle in some warm water for a little while before using. If the solution is warm, it is not as likely to cause dizziness as it closes your ears for a while. Also, be sure you have a bulb syringe to rinse the ear canal with warm water after solution is used. Sometimes the wax removal solution comes with the ball syringe, sometimes you will need to buy it separately.

Answer 3

1) Use a Q- tip to rub around the inner area, but do not push in, as this could damage ear.
2) The easiest way - in the shower, let some warm water in, then turn head. This will drain the wax away.

Answer 4

Believe it or not hydrogen Peroxide is the best way to clean your ears. Just drop about 1 to 3 drops in there and the wax works its way out or dissolves!

Answer 5

I generally use q-tips but it's not recommended. Flushing them out the peroxide and water also helps, while showering use a clean washcloth with warm water and clean the outter ear. ear, nose, and throat specialist can also clean your ears for you.

Answer 6

Keeping ears clean
http://www.webmd.com/content/article/42/1685_50320

Answer 7

There's a product called an "ear candle" that will do the trick.

Answer 8

You have some terrific answers here. However "red neck ettyqet" says ; Never use someone else's truck keys.

Answer 9

Clean it in private and use Waxol if they are blocked with wax.

Answer 10

Since you are asking this question in 'etiquette'.. I will answer in the spirit of the category.

Clean your ears in PRIVATE :)