Do not use cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects inside the ear canal
Wipe the outer ear with a warm, damp cloth
Let the ear clean itself naturally
Use a few drops of mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or over-the-counter ear drops to soften earwax
Tilt your head to let the drops sit for a few minutes
Drain the ear by tilting your head the other way
Gently rinse the outer ear with warm water if needed
Dry the outer ear with a clean towel
Use an earwax removal kit only as directed on the package
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, or hearing changes
Do not clean your ears at home if you have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, or an ear infection
See a doctor if you have severe pain, blockage, drainage, or repeated wax buildup