The 3 Safest Ways to Soften and Clear Earwax at Home and When to See an Expert

That feeling of fullness in your ear can be distracting; maybe you’re straining to hear your favourite podcast, or perhaps you keep asking your partner to repeat themself over the dinner table.  

Earwax, or cerumen, is not harmful or bad for your ears. It is a natural, protective layer your body makes. Earwax cleans, lubricates, and shields your ear canal from dust and bacteria.  The ear is designed to be self-cleaning, and earwax is a natural part of that process.  

However, problems can start when that wax builds up, hardens, or gets pushed deep inside.  

It’s easy (and common) to assume the quick fix is a cotton swab. If you’re like most Canadians, you have probably used one to try and "clean" your ears. But when you try to remove earwax impactions yourself with a cotton swab, you usually just push the wax deeper. This can cause pain, infection, or even damage to the delicate eardrum. 

The feeling of a blocked ear is frustrating, but trying to dig the wax out can make your hearing worse and lead to long-term issues.  

Thankfully, there are plenty of methods to try at home to alleviate the feeling of clogged ears before visiting an expert for a professional look. 

The 3 Safest Ways to Soften and Clear Earwax at Home 

1. Use Oil Drops to Soften the Wax 

A simple, gentle oil can do wonders for softening stubborn earwax. This is often the first and safest step you can take. Use mineral oil or baby oil for best results. 

Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up. Place two to three drops of oil into your ear canal using an eyedropper, and then stay in that position for about five to ten minutes to let the oil soak in. Repeat this once or twice a day for up to five days.  

The goal is to loosen the wax, allowing it to move out of the ear naturally. 

2. Use Over-the-Counter Wax Softeners 

For wax that feels harder or more impacted, an over-the-counter wax removal solution can help break it down. These are made ingredients that are safe to put in your ear, but if you’re concerned your eardrum is perforated, get in touch with an expert before trying them out. 

Use these products exactly as directed on the packaging. Overusing them can irritate the sensitive skin of your ear canal. 

3. Gentle Irrigation (After Softening) 

Once the wax has been softened, a gentle flush can help remove the loosened pieces. 

Use a rubber bulb syringe and lukewarm water (make sure it is body temperature, as cold water can cause dizziness!). 

Gently squirt the warm water into your ear canal while tilting your head over a sink. Do not use strong force, as the water should flush out and bring any loosened wax with it.  

When finished, gently tip your head the other way to let the water drain completely, and dry the outer ear with a towel. 

Why Earwax Impaction Matters 

A blocked ear is more than just annoying; it affects your daily life and can take an emotional toll. 

Think about family gatherings: You miss a punchline. You struggle to follow the conversation in a busy restaurant. Eventually, you might start withdrawing from social situations because it is too exhausting to try and hear through clogged ears. 

Untreated earwax impaction can also cause: 

• Earache or a feeling of fullness 

  
  

• Hearing loss that comes on suddenly or gradually 

  
  

• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus) 

  
  

• Dizziness (vertigo) 

  
  

At times, these symptoms can signal a serious condition, not just a simple wax problem. That is why it is so important to see an expert when home remedies do not work. 

When to See an Expert 

The safest and most complete method of earwax removal is always done by a professional. If you try the three home methods above for several days and your symptoms do not improve, it is time to call a professional. 

You must see a healthcare provider immediately if you experience: 

• Intense pain or bleeding from the ear 

  
  

• Foul-smelling drainage or discharge 

  
  

• Sudden, complete loss of hearing 

  
  

• Fever along with ear symptoms 

  
  

Seeing a qualified hearing care professional for an earwax removal appointment provides peace of mind.  

Our expert ear cleaning team uses specialized tools, while watching the procedure via an otoscope. This ensures the wax is fully removed without damaging your ear canal or eardrum. 

Good hearing care starts with a clear path for sound. Dealing with earwax safely is the first step toward protecting your hearing health for the long run. 

Your Next Steps for Clean and Clear Hearing 

If you are struggling with a blocked ear and home remedies have not worked, please do not feel discouraged. Your ears are delicate, and sometimes the wax is just too deep or too hard to be managed safely on your own. 

The best next step is to schedule an assessment. Our professional team can look inside your ear to confirm the blockage, rule out other conditions, and safely remove the impaction. This simple step can restore your comfort and clear your hearing in minutes. 

Book your professional earwax removal consultation today and experience clean and clear hearing without discomfort!