How often should you clean your ears?
For most people, the honest answer is: the outer ear when you wash, and the ear canal never. Some people do need regular wax care, though. Here is how to tell which you are.
Most ears clean themselves
The ear canal moves wax and dead skin outwards on its own, helped by jaw movement. Washing the outer ear with a flannel in the shower is all most people need. Over-cleaning strips away protective wax, leaving the canal itchy, dry and more prone to infection.
Who needs more help
- Hearing aid wearers, because aids block the natural flow of wax.
- People who use earplugs or earbuds for long periods.
- Older adults, whose wax tends to become drier and harder.
- People with narrow, curved or hairy ear canals.
- Anyone who has had repeated wax blockages.
If that sounds like you, a few drops of olive oil once or twice a week can keep wax soft and moving. Some people find professional wax removal every six to twelve months stops blockages building up.
Microsuction clears it gently in about 30 minutes. £60 for both ears, in clinic or at home.
Signs your ears need attention
A blocked or full feeling, muffled hearing, itching deep in the ear, a hearing aid that whistles or sounds weak, or new tinnitus can all mean wax has built up. Do not dig it out. Try drops for a few days, and if that does not help, have it removed.
Frequently asked questions.
No. Clean the outer ear only. The canal cleans itself.
It varies, but every six to twelve months is common. Your audiologist can advise.
We advise against home scoops and spirals, which can scratch the canal or push wax deeper.
Ears feeling blocked?
Microsuction earwax removal, in our Birmingham clinic or at home.
Cotton buds and your earsOlive oil for earwaxEarwax build-upEarwax removal
Written and clinically reviewed by our HCPC registered audiologists. Last reviewed: 15 October 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your hearing or your ears, book an appointment or speak to your GP.