Did you know that all four of our Beltone of WNY locations offers ear cleaning services? That’s because some hearing complications are caused by impacted cerumen, or a critical buildup of stubborn earwax.
Here are some simple solutions to cleaning out your ears at home.
- Soften your earwax.
You may be able to soften your earwax with household products, such as:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Peroxide
- Baby oil
- Mineral oil
- Glycerin
- Saline
To soften and remove earwax, choose your preferred household earwax softener and follow this procedure:
- Lie down on your side with one ear facing up.
- Drop 3 to 5 drops of the liquid into your ear; do NOT exceed 5 drops.
- Stay still for 5 to 7 minutes; allow the liquid to soften your earwax.
- Cover your ear with a towel or tissue and return to a sitting position.
- Tilt your head to the side to release the softened earwax and liquid into your towel or tissue.
- For good measure, irrigate your ear 15 to 30 minutes after softening.
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- Irrigate your ear.
To irrigate your ear, you’ll need a hand bulb ear syringe, water, and/or saline solution. The irrigation process is simple:
- Fill the bulb with water or saline solution.
- Tilt your head to the right or left, depending on which ear you’re cleaning.
- Bring the bulb to your ear and gently squeeze.
- Release the contents into the sink or onto a towel.
Irrigating your ear may prove to be an effective standalone solution. However, we recommend irrigating your ear 15 to 30 minutes after softening your earwax.
- Use an over-the-counter solution
One popular earwax removal product is called Debrox, which you should be able to find at most drugstores. A completely safe, painless, and doctor- and pharmacist-approved product, Debrox offers three distinct earwax removal solutions: ear drops, a cleansing fluid, and an entire kit that includes several earwax removal tools and solutions. To remove earwax, simply pick up your preferred product and follow the instructions on the box.
You may have also seen, heard, or read about something called “ear candling” or “ear candles.” We do not recommend these options because they are ineffective and—worse than that—potentially dangerous. If you’re interested in learning more about ear candles, read this article by WebMD.
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Introducing the Earigator!
If you are struggling to remove earwax at home, we offer a professional ear cleaning service using an instrument called the Earigator. The Earigator is a highly effective and pain-free device that removes stubborn earwax in just 3 to 5 minutes. Here are some fast facts about the Earigator:
- Designed by an otologist (ear doctor)
- Combines functions of otoscope and irrigation in one
- Operated by a trained medical professional
- Safely and efficiently removes stubborn earwax
- Temperature controlled for maximum patient comfort
- Removes impacted cerumen without endangering the eardrum
This Earigator how-to video is directed at hearing care providers like us, but it will still give you a good idea of how the Earigator works:
Are you experiencing difficulty with your hearing? We can help! Schedule an ear cleaning appointment at one of our three convenient locations, or give us a call to talk about your options. We look forward to seeing you!
Williamsville
7474 Transit Rd
Williamsville, NY 14221
Blasdell
3860 McKinley Pkwy
Blasdell, NY 14219
Batavia
166 Washington Ave
Batavia, NY 14020
