Advice · Ear wax
How to use olive oil ear drops for blocked ears
Olive oil does not remove ear wax, but it softens it. Softened wax may clear naturally, and it makes professional removal quicker and more comfortable. This guide explains how to use olive oil correctly and when to see a professional.
What you need
Plain olive oil works, applied with a dropper. Earol, a medical-grade olive oil spray, delivers a measured amount directly into the ear canal and is less messy. The Chepstow Hearing Clinic sells Earol for £5.
How to apply olive oil drops or spray
- Tilt your head so the affected ear faces upwards
- Apply two or three drops into the ear canal, or one or two sprays of Earol as directed on the bottle
- Keep your head tilted for about a minute to let the oil settle
- Wipe any excess from the outer ear
Repeat twice a day, morning and evening, for three to five days before a professional appointment. To encourage natural clearance without an appointment, continue for up to two weeks.
What to expect
In the first few days, the ear may feel slightly more blocked. This is normal, as the wax softens and can swell a little before it shifts. If hearing and pressure have not improved after two weeks of regular use, book professional ear wax removal.
When not to use olive oil
Check with a professional before putting anything in the ear if you:
- Have a perforated eardrum, or have had one in the past
- Have grommets
- Have pain, discharge or bleeding from the ear
- Have had a blocked ear for a long time and also have dizziness or significant pain
What about cotton buds?
Cotton buds push wax deeper into the ear canal and compact it against the eardrum, which makes removal more difficult. They can also scratch the skin of the ear canal and lead to infection. The ear canal is self-cleaning. Clean the outer ear with a damp cloth only.
When to book an appointment
Book ear wax removal if olive oil has not helped after one to two weeks, if you wear hearing aids, or if your hearing has changed noticeably. Ear wax removal at the clinic costs up to £65 for both ears.
Questions people ask
Common questions
How long should I use olive oil before ear wax removal?
Twice a day for three to five days before the appointment.
Can olive oil remove ear wax on its own?
Olive oil softens wax, which may then clear naturally. If there is no improvement after two weeks, professional removal is recommended.
Is it normal for my ear to feel more blocked after olive oil?
Yes, for the first few days. The wax softens and can swell slightly before it starts to shift.
When should I not use olive oil drops?
Do not use drops without professional advice if you have a perforated eardrum, grommets, pain, discharge or bleeding from the ear.
Still blocked after olive oil?
Ear wax removal at our Chepstow clinic, up to £65 for both ears.