How to Safely Clean Your Child’s Ears
Cleaning your child’s ears might seem simple, but it’s important to do it the right way. Many parents don’t realize that inserting anything into the ear canal, even a cotton swab, can do more harm than good. That’s why urgent care pediatrics often advises a gentle approach to ear hygiene.
Should I clean my child’s ears?
Yes! However, parents should only clean the outer part. Use a soft, damp washcloth to gently wipe around the outside of the ear during bath time. There’s no need to clean inside the ear canal. In fact, doing so can lead to problems like wax buildup, irritation, or even injury.
Is earwax bad?
Nope! Earwax plays an important role in protecting the ear. It helps trap dust and dirt and keeps the ear canal from drying out. Most of the time, earwax will move out of the ear on its own. If you notice a buildup near the opening of the ear, it’s okay to gently clean it. But never insert cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into your child’s ear.
When should I be concerned?
You should contact your pediatric provider or visit urgent care pediatrics if your child experiences:
- Ear pain or discomfort
- Trouble hearing
- Ringing in the ears
- Dizziness
- Balance issues
- Fluid or discharge coming from the ear
In these cases, your child may need to be seen by a healthcare provider to determine the cause and, if needed, safely remove earwax or treat an infection.
How can I protect my child’s ears?
To keep your child’s ears healthy:
- Avoid inserting anything into their ears
- Keep headphone or earbud volume low
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
- Watch for signs of infection or discomfort
If you have concerns about your child’s ear health, our team at Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care is here to help. We offer walk-in care at 19 locations across Texas, open 7 days a week for minor illnesses and injuries.
