Keeping the ears clean is a crucial aspect of overall health, but most people only take care of their ears when they become itchy or painful. Neglecting the ears can lead to infections, hearing loss, and other ear-related problems.

Therefore, it’s vital to know the best ways to keep your ears clean and healthy. In this article, we’ll explore ten effective ways to ensure your ears are in tip-top shape.

1. Avoid using cotton swabs

The traditional method of cleaning ears with cotton swabs is not recommended. This is because cotton swabs push the wax deeper into the ear, making it harder to remove and causing build-up.

This can lead to impaction, which occurs when the ear canal is obstructed by earwax, leading to discomfort, hearing loss, or infection. Instead, use a soft washcloth or a specialised earwax removal tool.

2. Use ear drops

Ear drops are a gentle way of cleaning ears, especially when wax has accumulated. Using ear drops like hydrogen peroxide or baby oil helps to soften the wax, making it easier to remove.

Also, it’s advisable to use ear drops before attempting to remove wax with a washcloth or earwax removal tool, as it makes the process less painful and more effective.

3. Keep ears dry

Moisture in the ears can cause infections or canal irritation. This is especially true for those who swim or shower regularly because water can accumulate in the ear canal.

To keep your ears dry, tilt your head to each side after taking a shower to help drain the water out of your ears, or use earplugs when swimming to prevent moisture from getting inside.

4. Avoid using headphones at high volume

Listening to music at high volumes using headphones exposes the ears to harmful sound levels, which can cause hearing loss. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep the volume at a reasonable level.

Also, taking frequent breaks when using headphones can help to reduce the risk of hearing loss.

5. Clean your earphones regularly

Earphones harbour bacteria, and if not cleaned regularly, they can transfer germs into the ears. Using a damp cloth or alcohol-based wipes to clean the earphones can help to keep bacteria at bay.

Also, avoid sharing earphones with others, as this can spread infections.

6. Get earwax removal done by a professional

Earwax removal should only be done by a professional. Attempting to remove wax yourself using sharp objects, such as hairpins or toothpicks, can cause injury to the eardrum or ear canal.

It’s best to seek the assistance of an ear specialist, who would use safe and pain-free methods to remove wax from the ears.

7. Eat a balanced diet

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is good for overall health, including the ears. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon or flaxseed, can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the ears.

Also, foods containing vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and magnesium can help to maintain the health of the inner ear.

8. Protect your ears from loud noises

Loud noises can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. Therefore, it’s essential to use ear protection when exposed to loud noises, such as in a concert, or when using power tools.

Earplugs or earmuffs help to reduce the decibel levels, protecting the ears from damage.

9. Monitor medication intake

Some medications, such as antibiotics, can affect hearing. Therefore, if you’re taking medication, consult your physician on whether it could affect your ear health.

Also, monitoring the dosage of drugs that could affect the ears can help to prevent hearing loss.

10. Visit an ear specialist annually

Regular check-ups with an ear specialist can help to identify ear-related problems early and prevent complications. An audiologist can monitor ear health and offer advice on keeping the ears healthy, such as removing wax or suggesting ear protection.

Conclusion

Caring for the ears is crucial to maintaining good health. Ignoring ear health can cause several problems, including hearing loss, ear infections, and irritation. The above tips provide the best ways to clean and maintain the health of the ears.

However, if you experience persistent ear pain or itching, visit an ear specialist immediately to prevent complications.