Ear Irrigation Advice

Ear irrigation is a common method used to remove excess earwax and foreign objects from the ear canal. The ear naturally produces wax to protect and lubricate the ear, but excessive build-up can lead to blockages and potential ear-related issues.

 

 

Pre-Appointment Advice

You are advised to purchase a dropper bottle of olive oil from your pharmacist.

  • It is crucial to apply olive oil drops 2 times daily for 2 weeks before a wax removal consultation, as this can often resolve the issue without the need for irrigation.
  • If you frequently experience ear wax buildup, your nurse or doctor may suggest using olive oil once a week as a preventive measure.
  • When using the olive oil, lie on your side with the affected ear facing up, use small amounts, and discontinue if you feel any pain or discomfort.
  • Gently pull the outer ear back and up, then add 1-2 drops of room temperature olive oil into the ear canal and massage the front of the ear.
  • Stay lying down for 10 minutes, then remove any excess oil.
  • Repeat the process for the other ear if needed.

brown glass bottle on brown wooden table

Read our Oiling Advice Leaflet  

 

Looking after your ears after your appointment

Immediate Aftercare Advice

a man with a beard holding his ears

  • Keep your ears dry for a few days, especially when bathing and swimming, this will minimise any potential risk of infection developing.
  • If you should experience any pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or discharge from your ears please contact our service to arrange a review.
  • If you came because you are having difficulty hearing and it doesn’t improve following wax removal you should seek further advice.

 

General and long-term ear care advice:

  • Wax is normal - it provides protection for your ears.
  • Your ears should be self-cleaning. DO NOT USE COTTON BUDS to try and remove the wax, it will only be pushed further down the ear canal and block your ear.
  • If you have repeated problems with wax blocking your ears, using olive oil drops just once or twice a month may help to keep your ears in good condition and help them to self-clean the way they are designed to.
  • Your ears should only be cleaned by a professional trained in ear care as they are able to see into your ear canals - you are unable to do this.
  • If you have ear problems such as dry skin, eczema, dermatitis, ‘runny ears’, you will find that keeping your ears dry will improve the condition.
  • The easiest way to keep your ears dry when bathing or showering is by using ear plugs or a piece of cotton wool smeared with Vaseline.
  • It is advisable not to leave cotton wool in your ear unless advised to by your ear care nurse.
  • Hearing can be damaged by exposure to loud noises wear ear defenders when possible.
  • If you have problems with your ears, don’t ignore them. Make an appointment to see your nurse or doctor. If you ignore the problem it can make it more difficult to treat

 

 

Last Updated 07/04/2026