Earwax Removers: Drops, Kits and When to Get Help

Start with drops

For most people, softening the wax is the first step. The NHS suggests putting 2 to 3 drops of medical grade olive or almond oil in the affected ear, 3 to 4 times a day, for 3 to 5 days. Lie on your side with the ear facing up for a few minutes afterwards so the oil can work.

Over-the-counter products include sodium bicarbonate drops and drops containing urea hydrogen peroxide (for example Otex or Earex Advance). These can soften stubborn wax but may cause some fizzing or mild irritation.

What to avoid

• Cotton buds, hair grips or fingers in the ear canal - they push wax deeper
• Ear candles - there is no evidence they work and they can cause burns
• Drops if you have a perforated ear drum or grommets, unless a clinician says it is safe

Do home kits help?

Bulb syringes and camera tools are widely sold. They can help some people, but it is easy to scratch the canal or push wax further in. If drops have not worked after a week, a professional check is usually the safer choice.

When to book

If your hearing is still muffled after a week of drops, or you get pain, dizziness or discharge, book an ear wax check at Nexus Pharmacy in Nottingham. We look inside the ear first, then advise whether removal is needed.