Let earwax clear naturally if it is not causing symptoms
Clean only the outer ear with a damp cloth
Use over-the-counter earwax softening drops as directed on the label
Use mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or saline drops to soften wax if appropriate
Tilt the head to let softened wax drain out
Rinse gently with warm water only if you have no ear injury, no ear tubes, and no history of ear surgery
Use a bulb syringe very gently if you have been told it is safe
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, or worsening hearing
Do not use cotton swabs, hairpins, keys, or other objects in the ear canal
Do not use ear candles
Do not irrigate the ear if you have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, ear infection, or recent ear surgery
See a healthcare professional if wax is impacted, symptoms persist, or you have ear pain, drainage, hearing loss, or ringing