Use over-the-counter ear drops to soften the wax
Try mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or hydrogen peroxide drops if appropriate
Tilt your head and let the drops sit for a few minutes
Flush the ear gently with warm water using a bulb syringe if needed
Let water drain out by tilting your head
Dry the outer ear with a clean towel
Do not use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects in the ear
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, or hearing loss
See a doctor if the wax is impacted, symptoms persist, or you have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, or an ear infection
Have a clinician remove the wax if home methods do not work