As satisfying as it may feel to clean your ears with a cotton swab, you’re usually not removing much wax—you’re pushing it deeper into the ear. Over time, that buildup can lead to clogged ears, pain, infections, and even hearing problems.
“Blockages from earwax are almost always caused by using cotton swabs,” says Samantha Hill, NP, Carilion Clinic Family Medicine. “Ears are made to clean themselves.”
Why earwax is important
Earwax may seem gross, but it actually serves an important purpose. It helps protect your ear canal from dirt, bacteria, and fungus. Earwax is naturally acidic and has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent infections.
What happens when you use cotton swabs?
Cotton swabs can remove a small amount of wax near the surface, but most of the wax gets pushed farther into the ear canal where it can become trapped.
“While cotton swabs can help remove little pieces of wax, what often happens is that you’re pushing most of it deeper where it can’t get out,” says Samantha. “Over time, as you keep using swabs, the wax can build up until it causes problems.”
That buildup can lead to:
- A clogged or “full” feeling in the ear
- Temporary hearing loss
- Ear pain or pressure
- Ringing in the ears
- Ear infections
- Swimmer’s ear
Putting fingers, cotton swabs, or other things in your ears can also damage the thin skin lining the ear canal, making infections more likely.
How should you clean your ears?
Most people don’t need to clean inside their ears at all. If wax is visible, use a washcloth to gently clean around the opening of your ears. Don’t put any objects into the ear canal.
If deeper wax is bothering you, try over-the-counter ear drops designed to soften earwax. These products slowly break up and loosen wax so it can come out naturally.
When to see a doctor
Reach out to your doctor if you have persistent symptoms like:
- Ear pain or itching that doesn’t go away
- Decreased hearing
- Fullness or clogged feeling
- Ringing in your ears
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Fluid coming out of your ear
Your doctor can examine your ears and, if necessary, safely flush out excess earwax.
If you have questions or concerns, reach out to your family doctor.
