How to Use Olive Oil Ear Drops for Blocked Ears — and When to See a Professional

Olive oil is the most commonly recommended first step for blocked ears, and for good reason — it genuinely works, when used properly. It doesn't remove wax itself, but it softens it, which either allows the wax to work its way out naturally or makes professional removal much quicker and more comfortable. Here's how to use it properly, and importantly, when to stop and come and see us instead.

How to use olive oil ear drops — what you'll need

Here's exactly how to use olive oil ear drops correctly, and when to stop and come and see us instead. Plain olive oil works well, but we'd recommend Earol — a medical-grade olive oil spray that comes in a small bottle with a nozzle designed to deliver the right amount directly into the ear canal. It's much less messy than trying to use a teaspoon, and you won't accidentally put in too much. We sell it at the clinic for £5.

How to apply olive oil drops or spray

Tilt your head to one side so the affected ear is facing upward. If you're using drops, apply two or three drops into the ear canal. If using Earol, follow the instructions on the bottle — one or two sprays is usually enough. Stay with your head tilted for about a minute to let the oil settle. Then gently wipe any excess from around the outer ear. Repeat this twice daily — morning and evening — for three to five days before any professional appointment. If you're just trying to encourage natural clearance without booking an appointment, you can continue for up to two weeks.

What to expect

In the first couple of days, things might actually feel slightly more blocked than before. That's normal — the olive oil is softening the wax and it can expand a little before it starts to shift. If your hearing improves and the pressure eases after a few days, the oil has done its job. If things haven't improved after two weeks of consistent use, it's time to come in for professional removal.

When not to use olive oil

Olive oil is safe for most people, but there are situations where you should check with a professional first rather than trying to treat things at home:

• If you have a perforated eardrum (or have had one in the past)

• If you have grommets

• If you have pain, discharge, or blood coming from the ear

• If your ear has been blocked for a long time and you're also experiencing dizziness or significant pain

In these cases, please call us or your GP before putting anything in your ear.

What about cotton buds?

Please don't. We see the consequences regularly. Cotton buds tend to push wax deeper into the ear canal, compacting it against the eardrum and making professional removal considerably more difficult. They can also scratch the delicate skin of the ear canal, creating the conditions for an infection. The ear canal is self-cleaning — wax is supposed to migrate outward naturally. The outer ear can be cleaned with a damp cloth. That's it.

When to book in

If you've used olive oil regularly for a week or two with no improvement, if you're a regular hearing aid wearer, or if your hearing has changed noticeably and quickly, come and see us. Our ear wax removal appointments are available most days at the Chepstow clinic, usually with little wait. Call 01291 332211 or book online.