Introduction: Why Regular Ear Cleaning Is More Important Than You Think
Earwax might not seem like a big deal — but too much of it can affect your hearing, balance, and even your comfort. Most people don’t realize that routine ear cleaning is just as important as eye or dental check-ups. At Better Ears, we often meet patients who waited until they couldn’t hear properly before seeking help. In this guide, we’ll explain how often you should get your ears cleaned, how to tell when it’s time, and why professional care is the safest option.
The Role of Earwax in Ear Health
What Earwax Actually Does
Earwax, or cerumen, protects your ears by:
- Trapping dust and debris
- Preventing bacterial infections
- Keeping your ear canal lubricated
Why Too Much Earwax Becomes a Problem
When earwax builds up, it can block sound waves, cause pressure, or even lead to infections. Common symptoms include:
- Muffled hearing
- Earache or fullness
- Itching or tinnitus
How Often Should You Clean Your Ears?
General Ear Cleaning Frequency
For most people, every 6 to 12 months is ideal for a professional ear cleaning. However, frequency depends on your wax production and lifestyle.
Factors That Affect How Often You Need Cleaning
You may need more frequent ear care if you:
- Use hearing aids or earbuds regularly
- Produce excess wax naturally
- Work in dusty or noisy environments
- Swim frequently (risk of trapped water and wax)
When to Clean at Home vs Seeing a Professional
Light cleaning around the outer ear with a damp cloth is fine — but never insert anything into the ear canal. If you suspect a blockage, always seek professional microsuction instead of DIY methods.
Signs It’s Time for an Ear Cleaning Appointment
Muffled Hearing or Blocked Sensation
A dull or “underwater” feeling is often the first sign of wax buildup.
Itching, Pain, or Ringing in the Ears
Discomfort, ringing (tinnitus), or mild pain can signal trapped wax or infection.
Excessive Earwax Discharge
If wax is visible or leaking out, it’s time to book a cleaning before it hardens and causes impaction.
Common Mistakes People Make When Cleaning Their Ears
Using Cotton Buds or Sharp Objects
These push wax deeper, risking blockages or even eardrum damage.
Overusing Ear Drops
While ear drops soften wax, overuse can irritate your ear canal or dry it out.
Falling for Ear Candling Myths
Ear candling is not only ineffective — it’s dangerous. It can cause burns, wax residue, or eardrum perforation.
Safe Ways to Clean Your Ears
Gentle Home Care Practices
- Clean only the outer ear with a cloth
- Avoid inserting any tools or earbuds
- Use drops sparingly and only if advised by an audiologist
Why Professional Microsuction Is the Safest Method
Microsuction is the gold standard for ear cleaning. It uses a gentle suction device under magnification to remove wax safely and precisely — without water or discomfort.
How Irrigation Helps with Soft Wax
For soft wax, warm water irrigation is a safe, effective method performed by trained clinicians under sterile conditions.
Recommended Ear Cleaning Schedule by Age Group
Children and Teenagers
Usually once a year, unless symptoms appear. Never use cotton buds in children’s ears.
Adults and Active Individuals
Every 6–12 months depending on earwax buildup or headphone use.
Seniors and Hearing Aid Users
Every 3–6 months is recommended, as hearing aids and age-related dryness can increase wax accumulation.
What to Expect During a Professional Ear Cleaning
Step-by-Step Process at Better Ears
1️⃣ Visual examination – Your audiologist checks for wax or infection using an otoscope or camera.
2️⃣ Microsuction or irrigation – The safest method is chosen based on your ear condition.
3️⃣ Aftercare advice – You’ll receive tips on maintaining clean, healthy ears.
How Long It Takes and What It Costs
A professional cleaning usually takes 15–30 minutes. At Better Ears, our pricing is transparent and includes a free ear health check before treatment.
Why Choose Better Ears for Regular Ear Cleaning
Experienced Audiologists and Gentle Methods
Our HCPC-registered audiologists specialize in safe, comfortable, and precise earwax removal.
Convenient Clinic Locations and Home Visits
Visit us in:
- Radlett – 347 Watling Street, WD7 7LB
- Harpenden – 1 High Street, AL5 2RS
- Hemel Hempstead – 161 London Road, HP3 9SQ
- Wheathampstead – 2 High Street, AL4 8AA
Or book a home visit for your convenience.
A Patient-Centered Approach to Ear Health
We prioritize your comfort, clarity, and long-term hearing health — no rushed appointments, just professional care.
FAQs on Ear Cleaning and Earwax Removal
Q1. How often should I get my ears professionally cleaned?
Most people benefit from cleaning every 6–12 months.
Q2. Is microsuction safe for everyone?
Yes — it’s suitable for all ages, even for people with perforated eardrums.
Q3. Can I use cotton buds safely?
No. They can push wax deeper or cause injury.
Q4. How long does a professional cleaning take?
Usually between 15–30 minutes depending on wax buildup.
Q5. Does ear cleaning improve hearing?
Yes — many patients notice immediate improvement in hearing clarity.
Conclusion: Healthy Hearing Starts with Regular Ear Care
Keeping your ears clean isn’t just about hygiene — it’s about preserving your hearing and comfort. Regular professional ear cleanings help prevent blockages, infections, and hearing loss.
At Better Ears, we make ear care simple, gentle, and effective. Whether you need a quick check-up or a complete wax removal, our experts are here to help you hear clearly again.
Book your appointment today at your nearest Better Ears clinic and experience the confidence of clear, healthy hearing.