Let earwax clear naturally if it is not causing symptoms
Use a warm, damp cloth to clean only the outer ear
Use over-the-counter ear drops to soften wax if needed
Tilt the head after using ear drops to let wax drain out
Flush the ear gently with warm water using a bulb syringe if recommended
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, or hearing changes
Never use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects inside the ear canal
Do not use ear candles
Avoid self-removal if you have ear tubes, a perforated eardrum, ear surgery history, or ear infection
See a doctor if wax is impacted, symptoms persist, or hearing is affected