How Often Should You Get Your Ears Cleaned? A Guide by Your Auckland Audiologist

Most of us clean our ears without giving it much thought — a quick towel dry, a cotton bud swipe, and we're done. But is that enough? Or could it be doing more harm than good? As trusted audiologists in Auckland, one of the most common questions we get asked is: how often should you get your ears cleaned?

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how earwax works, when cleaning is actually necessary, and how often you should book a professional earwax removal appointment. We'll also share tips on safe ear care and explain when to seek help from an audiologist.

Why Do We Have Earwax?

Before we talk about cleaning, it’s important to understand what earwax is and why it exists.

Earwax is your ear’s natural cleaning system. It traps dust, dirt, and other foreign particles, stopping them from reaching deeper into the ear canal. It also contains antibacterial properties and helps protect the delicate skin inside the ears.

Normally, the body is self-regulating—earwax makes its way to the opening of the ear where it dries and falls out naturally. However, some people produce more wax than others, or have narrow or curved ear canals that trap it. That’s when cleaning may be required.

How Often Should You Clean Your Ears?

There’s a delicate balance when it comes to cleaning your ears. Over-cleaning or being too forceful can irritate the ear canal or push wax deeper inside, increasing the risk of impaction.

Here’s a general rule of thumb:

• Healthy ears with no symptoms: Gently clean only the outer ear with a damp cloth as part of your regular hygiene routine.

• Mild wax build-up: Occasional softening drops (like olive oil) can help loosen wax. But don’t overdo it.

• Frequent blockages or discomfort: If you experience symptoms like muffled hearing, a full feeling, ringing (tinnitus), dizziness, or pain, it’s time to see a professional.

  
  

We recommend getting your ears professionally checked every 6 to 12 months, especially if you’ve had wax issues in the past. For some, this might mean an annual check-up. For others, particularly those who wear hearing aids or use earplugs often, more regular cleaning—every 3 to 6 months—may be needed.

Think of earwax removal like a dental check-up for your ears. Regular visits help prevent bigger issues down the line.

The Risks of DIY Ear Cleaning

When it comes to cleaning your ears, cotton buds (or “Q-tips”) are not your friends. While they may seem harmless, using them in your ear canal can actually make things worse:

• Push wax deeper, making it harder to remove.

• Scratch or damage the ear canal.

• Increase the risk of infection or even perforated eardrums.

  
  

At our Auckland clinic, we often see patients who have tried at-home remedies only to worsen the situation. If you suspect wax build-up, the best course of action is to have an audiologist assess it.

Professional Ear Wax Removal in Auckland

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to get your ears cleaned professionally, we’re here to help.

At Family Hearing, we offer gentle and effective ear wax removal using methods like microsuction and manual removal, depending on your needs.

Microsuction is the safest and most effective method available today. It uses a fine suction device under direct vision through a microscope, allowing precise removal without risk to the eardrum. It’s quick, safe, and often provides instant relief.

Learn more about our service here: Ear Wax Removal in Auckland

Signs You Need Professional Ear Cleaning

You should consider booking a earwax removal appointment if you experience:

• Muffled or reduced hearing

• Itchiness or irritation inside the ears

• A blocked or “full” sensation

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

• Dizziness or balance issues

• Pain or discomfort

  
  

These symptoms could indicate excessive wax buildup or another underlying issue. The good news is, they’re often easily resolved with professional care.

How to Maintain Healthy Ears Between Appointments

Here are a few tips to keep your ears clean and healthy in between your ear wax removal appointments:

• Avoid cotton buds or inserting anything into the ear canal.

• Dry your ears gently after showering or swimming.

• Use olive oil drops occasionally if recommended by your audiologist.

• Wear ear protection in dusty environments or when swimming.

• Book regular check-ups, especially if you wear hearing aids.

  
  

Read about our blog about top tips for healthy ears for more information.

At Family Hearing Audiology in Auckland, we specialise in providing comprehensive ear care for adults and children. Whether you're due for a check-up or are experiencing symptoms of earwax build-up, our experienced team is here to help.

We also offer a range of hearing tests to help get to the root of any hearing or listening difficulties. Still feeling blocked or having trouble hearing clearly, even after earwax removal?  Sometimes it’s not your ears—it’s how your brain processes sound. Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) can affect how you interpret what you hear, especially in noisy environments. Book an appointment at our Auckland clinic to discuss your hearing concerns today.