This is how you should be cleaning your ears
Put down the cotton earbuds and listen up!
Like a scratch you need to itch, there is something very satisfying about cleaning out your ears.
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Q-tips and cotton swabs might seem like the best option for this task, they were practically invented for it, but they have fallen out of favour.
Doctors and other medical professionals have been outspoken about using swabs to clean your ears.
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These little swabs will push more wax deeper into the ear canal instead of digging it out, and as wax accumulates against your eardrum, it could cause hearing problems.
You also pose the risk of puncturing your eardrum when you poke around with a Q-tip, which can have serious long-term effects on your hearing.
Earwax is a good thing.
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It helps lubricate your ear canal, prevents fungus from growing, and keeps bugs from wanting to crawl in there.
Your ears are pretty good at cleaning themselves, but if you need some help, here are six alternative methods to getting wax out of your ears.
1. The finger and tissue trick
No Q-tip, no problem! Just wrap some tissue around your pinky and gently swirl it around. Stick to the outer part of your ear and avoid the ear canal. It is recommended that you do this post-shower, as the heat and steam will help loosen things up.
2. Olive oil
According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, adding two or three drops of this kitchen staple into your ear will help soften the earwax so it can work its way out. This only needs to be done once a week.
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3. Hydrogen Peroxide
As with the olive oil, you can lie on your side and squeeze a few drops of hydrogen peroxide into the ear facing up. If you hear fizzing and popping, it's working. Let it sit briefly before tilting your head into a sink.
Do not use this method if you have dry skin.
4. Earwax drops
If you are wary of trying a DIY method, you can find earwax removal solutions at your local pharmacy.
5. Special tool
There are many ear-cleaning tools out there, so consider using one that rotates gently. Many have a safety cap that prevents further insertion and excessive movement inside the ear.
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6. Go to the doctor
If all else fails, the one tried-and-true way to get rid of that annoying earwax is to go to the doctor.
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