If you’ve been dealing with blocked ears, muffled hearing, or discomfort, you may be wondering if over-the-counter ear drops are the answer — and whether they can also treat an ear infection. One of the most commonly recommended solutions for earwax build-up is sodium bicarbonate ear drops, but there’s often confusion about what they actually do and when to use them.

At Eltham Pharmacy, we regularly help patients with ear health concerns, from simple wax removal to more complex issues that need a GP referral. In this article, we’ll explain the role of sodium bicarbonate ear drops, when they’re appropriate, and what to do if you suspect an ear infection.

What Are Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops For?

Sodium bicarbonate ear drops are designed to soften hardened earwax, making it easier to remove naturally or through professional cleaning such as microsuction or irrigation. These drops work by breaking down the structure of the wax, helping it move out of the ear canal more easily.

They are often used for:

• –> General wax build-up

• –> Preparing the ear for wax removal treatments

• –> Reducing blockage-related symptoms such as dulled hearing or pressure

However, they are not a treatment for infection.

Can Sodium Bicarbonate Drops Treat Ear Infections?

No — sodium bicarbonate ear drops are not intended to treat ear infections. While they may relieve some pressure caused by wax, they do not contain any antibacterial, antiviral, or anti-inflammatory ingredients.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as:

• –> Sharp or throbbing ear pain

• –> A feeling of fullness that worsens

• –> Discharge (especially if yellow, green, or smelly)

• –> Fever

• –> Hearing loss that doesn’t improve with wax softening

…you may have an ear infection rather than a simple wax blockage.

In these cases, you should speak to your pharmacist or GP. Depending on the type of infection (outer, middle, or inner ear), treatment may include prescription-only antibiotic ear drops, oral medication, or other supportive care.

Other Ear Drops for Wax Removal

Sodium bicarbonate isn’t the only option available for softening wax. At Eltham Pharmacy, we can advise on several types of ear drops, including:

Olive Oil Ear Drops

A gentle, natural choice that works by lubricating and softening wax. Olive oil drops are usually well tolerated and recommended for regular use or maintenance, especially in those prone to recurrent build-up.

Hydrogen Peroxide (Urea Peroxide) Drops

These drops work by releasing oxygen, which helps to break up earwax and clear the canal. They can be more effective for particularly stubborn or dry wax but may cause fizzing or irritation in sensitive ears.

Dual-Action Formulas

Some drops combine softening ingredients with a mild cleansing agent to help clear debris from the ear. These can be useful ahead of an ear irrigation or microsuction appointment, particularly if you’ve had problems with compacted wax in the past.

If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can help select the best product based on your symptoms and ear health history.

When to Use Ear Drops — And When to Get Help

You can usually try sodium bicarbonate or olive oil ear drops for 3 to 5 days to see if the blockage improves. If you experience relief, no further treatment may be necessary. However, if symptoms persist, get worse, or you notice signs of infection, it’s important to stop and seek advice.

Some patients find that even after using drops, wax remains too hard or impacted to come out on its own. In this case, professional removal by microsuction may be needed — and using softening drops beforehand often makes the process more comfortable and effective.

Buying Ear Drops to Treat Infection

For actual ear infections, over-the-counter treatments are limited. A few products may help with mild irritation in the outer ear (such as acetic acid drops), but proper treatment often requires a prescription. That’s why it’s vital to speak with your pharmacist or GP to get the correct diagnosis and care.

At Eltham Pharmacy, we can:

• –> Assess your symptoms

• –> Recommend appropriate softening drops

• –> Refer you to your GP if an infection is suspected

• –> Help you prepare for wax removal with the right at-home products

We also offer professional ear health checks and ear wax removal services using the latest technology, including microsuction.

Let Us Help You Hear Clearly Again

If you’ve been using sodium bicarbonate ear drops and still feel blocked, uncomfortable, or unsure about your symptoms, visit us at Eltham Pharmacy. We’ll guide you through your options, recommend suitable products, and arrange further support if needed.

Visit us in store or contact us today to get expert advice on ear care and start your journey to clearer, healthier hearing.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.