At Eltham Pharmacy, we regularly see patients who have tried to manage blocked ears using an earwax removal kit, only to find their symptoms remain or become worse. While these kits can be useful in some situations, they are often used incorrectly. Understanding the most common mistakes can help you avoid discomfort and decide when professional care is the better option. If you are unsure whether home treatment is suitable, you can contact us to discuss booking an appointment at our London earwax removal clinic.

Mistake One: Assuming All Blocked Ears Are Caused By Wax

Many people reach for an earwax removal kit as soon as their hearing feels muffled or blocked. While earwax is a common cause, it is not the only one.

• –> Ear infections, inflammation, or fluid behind the eardrum can cause similar symptoms
• –> Using a kit when wax is not present can irritate the ear canal
• –> Delaying assessment may allow the underlying issue to worsen

The correct approach is to confirm the cause before treatment. A professional ear check ensures wax is actually present. Ear irrigation is only carried out when appropriate, making it a safer and more targeted option.

Mistake Two: Overusing Drops Or Home Irrigation

It is common to assume that more treatment will lead to better results. This often leads to repeated or prolonged use of an earwax removal kit.

• –> Excessive use can cause wax to swell and block the ear more firmly
• –> Repeated moisture can irritate the ear canal
• –> Overuse increases the risk of infection

If symptoms do not improve after a short period, continuing home treatment is unlikely to help. Ear irrigation performed professionally is usually more successful because it removes wax efficiently in one controlled session rather than relying on repeated attempts.

Mistake Three: Using Cotton Buds Alongside A Kit

Despite clear advice, cotton buds are still commonly used with earwax removal kits.

• –> Cotton buds push wax deeper into the ear canal
• –> They increase the risk of impacted wax
• –> They can scratch or damage the delicate skin inside the ear

Nothing should be inserted into the ear canal. If softened wax does not clear naturally, professional ear cleaning is far safer and more effective than attempting to remove it manually at home.

Mistake Four: Ignoring Pain, Dizziness Or Ringing

Some people continue using an earwax removal kit even when symptoms become uncomfortable.

• –> Pain is not a normal part of wax removal
• –> Dizziness may indicate pressure changes or irritation
• –> Ringing can be a sign the ear is reacting badly to treatment

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complications. Treatment should stop immediately if discomfort occurs. You can contact us for advice and arrange a professional assessment at our London earwax removal clinic.

Mistake Five: Expecting Instant Results At Home

Home treatment is often expected to work straight away, leading to frustration when it does not.

• –> Impacted wax rarely clears fully with drops alone
• –> Repeated attempts can worsen blockage
• –> Applying force with bulbs or syringes can irritate the ear

If you have already tried an earwax removal kit without success, book an appointment for ear irrigation. Professional treatment is designed to remove wax fully and efficiently, often in a single visit.

Mistake Six: Not Considering Personal Risk Factors

Earwax removal kits are not suitable for everyone, yet many people use them without considering individual risks.

• –> Hearing aid users often produce more compacted wax
• –> Narrow ear canals can make home removal ineffective
• –> Previous ear surgery or perforations increase risk

In these cases, ear irrigation carried out by trained professionals offers a safer and more reliable option tailored to your needs.

Why Ear Irrigation Is Often More Successful

While an earwax removal kit may help with mild buildup, ear irrigation is generally more effective for stubborn or impacted wax.

• –> Wax is removed in a controlled clinical setting
• –> Treatment is only carried out when appropriate
• –> Faster relief with reduced risk of complications

At Eltham Pharmacy, our London earwax removal clinic provides professional ear irrigation to help restore comfort and hearing safely.

When To Seek Professional Help

If you have ongoing symptoms, discomfort or repeated blockages, home treatment may not be the best solution.

• –> Symptoms lasting more than a few days
• –> Pain, dizziness or ringing
• –> No improvement after using an earwax removal kit

In these situations, get in touch with us to discuss your symptoms or book an appointment for professional ear irrigation and expert care at Eltham Pharmacy.

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