What should you know about self cleaning ear wax removal?

Earwax normally moves outward on its own and helps protect the ear canal. Cotton buds, hairpins and other objects can push wax deeper, scratch delicate skin or injure the eardrum. A blocked feeling may be caused by [Earwax Buildup](/conditions/earwax-buildup/), but muffled hearing, an [Earache](/symptoms/earache/) or [Ringing in the Ears](/symptoms/ringing-in-ears/) can have other causes.

Home care is not suitable when you have a hole in the eardrum, ear tubes, recent ear surgery, discharge or significant pain unless a clinician has advised it.

Wipe only the visible outer ear with a damp cloth. If a pharmacist or clinician says softening drops are appropriate for you, use them exactly as directed and give them time to work; do not insert an applicator into the canal. Avoid ear candles, suction gadgets and forceful water flushing. A clinician can assess the canal and choose [Ear Wax Removal](/treatments/minor-procedures/ear-wax-removal/) or, where appropriate, an [Ear Microsuction Device](/technology/ear-microsuction-device/).

Arrange an examination if blockage persists, hearing becomes reduced, or symptoms return after home care. Seek prompt medical help for severe ear pain, bleeding, pus or other discharge, fever, sudden hearing loss, marked dizziness, or a new one-sided change. Do not try to remove an object stuck in the ear.

Could wax explain my symptoms, and can you check the eardrum? Which products are suitable with my ear history? What removal method do you recommend, and what should make me stop home care?