Use a warm, damp washcloth to clean the outer ear only
Let warm water run over the ear during a shower, then dry the outside gently
Tilt your head to help water drain out after bathing
Use over-the-counter ear drops to soften earwax if needed
Follow the ear drop instructions exactly
Use a bulb syringe with warm water only if you have been told it is safe to do so
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, or hearing loss
Do not insert cotton swabs, fingers, hairpins, or other objects into the ear canal
Do not use ear candles
Do not use sharp tools or force to remove wax
See a doctor if you have ear pain, drainage, bleeding, fever, or blocked hearing
See a doctor if you have a history of ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, or frequent earwax buildup