Doctor’s Warning: Why You Should Never Clean Your Ears with Cotton Buds

Despite repeated warnings from healthcare professionals, many of us still find ourselves reaching for a cotton bud to clean out earwax. It’s satisfying, convenient, and feels oddly effective—but doctors are urging people to stop this harmful habit once and for all.

Why Cotton Buds Are Dangerous

GP Dr. Amir Khan, known for his appearances on Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, recently shared a stern reminder on Instagram about the dangers of using cotton buds to clean your ears.

“It may feel good to stick a cotton bud inside your ear, and it may come out with a little bit of wax, but all you’ve done is push that wax further down your ear,” Dr. Khan explained.

We're all guilty of it (Getty Stock Images)

Here are the main risks he outlined:

1. Wax Blockage
   • Instead of removing wax, cotton buds can push it deeper into the ear canal, potentially leading to a complete blockage.
2. Eardrum Damage
   • Aggressive use of cotton buds increases the risk of perforating the eardrum, which can cause pain, hearing loss, and long-term complications.
3. Foreign Object Removal
   • Dr. Khan has encountered patients with pieces of cotton from the buds lodged in their ears, requiring medical intervention.
4. Environmental Harm
   • Beyond personal health risks, cotton buds contribute to environmental waste, as many are made of non-biodegradable plastic.

What the NHS Recommends

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A post shared by Dr Amir Khan GP (@doctoramirkhan)

For those struggling with earwax buildup, the NHS advises safer, doctor-approved alternatives:

• Use Olive or Almond Oil
  Apply 2-3 drops into the affected ear while lying on your side for 5-10 minutes. This softens the wax, making it easier to naturally work its way out.
• Consult a Pharmacist or GP
  Persistent earwax problems may require professional treatment, such as microsuction or irrigation.

Tip: Avoid over-the-counter remedies unless specifically recommended, as some may irritate the ear canal.

Why People Still Use Cotton Buds

Despite the warnings, many individuals find it difficult to break the habit.

• “It’s the only way to reach that itch,” commented one Instagram user.
• Another joked, “But Amir…it feels so niiice.”

While the temporary relief may be tempting, the long-term risks outweigh the short-lived satisfaction.

Better Habits for Healthy Ears

Here are some key points to remember for ear health:

1. Let Your Ears Self-Clean
   • The ear canal is self-cleaning. Wax naturally migrates outward, carrying dirt and debris with it.
2. Avoid Inserting Objects
   • This includes cotton buds, fingers, or any other tools.
3. Protect Against Loud Noises
   • Hearing damage from loud environments can lead to problems far worse than earwax buildup.
4. Stay Hydrated
   • Proper hydration supports your body’s natural processes, including ear health.

A Final Goodbye to Cotton Buds

Dr. Khan’s advice is clear: it’s time to retire the cotton buds for good. Not only could they harm your ears, but they’re also unnecessary if you follow proper care practices.

It's time to say goodbye to the cotton buds (Getty Stock Images)

For those struggling to ditch the habit, it’s worth remembering that the satisfying scrape isn’t worth risking hearing loss or an emergency trip to the doctor.

Take care of your ears the right way—ditch the buds and opt for safer alternatives.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images