Experts say parents should avoid using cotton buds or other objects to clean their children’s ears, as the ear’s natural mechanisms usually handle wax safely
Parents frequently ask how often they should clean their children’s ears, with online discussions revealing a range of solutions, from weekly cleaning to simply wiping the outer ear during bath time. Experts agree that most of these efforts are unnecessary and can do more harm than good.
Dr Deborah Lee of Dr Fox Online Pharmacy explained that children’s ears are naturally self-cleaning. “Ear wax is a healthy secretion that traps dirt and debris, protecting the ear from infection,” she said. “Parents should only wipe away visible wax on the outer ear with a damp cloth or cotton wool ball and avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.”
Why cotton buds are risky
Medical authorities, including the children’s audiology department at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, advise against using cotton buds or ear candles. Both can push wax deeper into the ear, increasing the risk of infection, hearing loss or even a perforated eardrum. Studies consistently show that inserting objects into the ear canal can lead to impacted wax or injury.
Safe ways to manage excess wax
Moderate ear wax is beneficial and usually needs no intervention. However, if wax builds up or causes discomfort, it is best to seek help from a health care provider who specialises in paediatric ear wax removal.
Special care for babies
For babies, experts from Pregnancy, Birth and Baby and Healthline recommend wiping only the outer ear and nearby skin during bath time. They caution against inserting anything into the ear canal, as wax protects and lubricates this sensitive area. Parents should seek medical advice if earwax becomes discoloured – green, dark red or black – or if there are symptoms of hearing loss.
A gentle, hands-off approach
Health professionals emphasise a cautious, minimal-intervention approach to ear hygiene in children. The outer ear can be cleaned gently as part of regular washing, but any attempt to remove wax from inside the canal should be left to a clinician.
“Parents often worry about earwax, but in most cases, it’s a sign the ears are working efficiently,” said Abigail Pillay, a Clinical Audiologist at Hearology®. “The need to seek expert help is only if your child experiences pain, discharge, or hearing changes.”
References
How to Safely Clean Your Child's Ears - This article from Children's Healthcare of Atlanta discusses the natural self-cleansing process of children's ears and advises against routine cleaning.
Tips for Cleaning Your Ears Safely - Healthline's article provides guidance on ear cleaning.
How to Care for Your Baby’s Ears - This Healthline article offers advice on cleaning babies' ears, stating that it's important to keep the outer ear and the skin around it clean during bath time.
How to Clean Your Ears - WebMD's article discusses ear cleaning practices, stating that ear canals typically don't need cleaning. It advises against using cotton swabs, as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction.
