18 Simple Ways to Prevent Hearing Loss – Tip #11


Picture of hands together

Do Not Put Anything In Your Ear

We touched on this topic a bit in Tip #6, but this is so important we decided to make it it’s own tip. Don’t put anything in your ears, and that includes cotton swabs! If you asked someone what a cotton swab is used for they would likely respond by saying that it’s used to clean ears, but that’s a huge misconception.

If you attempt to clean your ears or scratch an itch on the inside of your ear with any type of foreign objects it will increase your risk of an ear infection and/or injury to your ear. This includes cotton swabs, bobby pins, pen caps or any other type of object that will fit inside your ear canal and that you feel may be the perfect size for removing earwax.

Putting anything in your ear increases the chances of you rupturing your eardrum or causing other types of injury to your inner ear and if there is injury to your ear, it may result in permanent hearing loss.

Under no circumstance should you be sticking anything in your ear to clean it. If you have a problem with wax buildup, speak to a trained hearing specialist about ear cleaning techniques. They can help you set up a regimen that will keep your ears clean and safe!

Want more information?

Checkout these related articles

Family grilling outside during summer.
Kevin St. Clergy
| May 16, 2024

Your Summer Hearing Aid Guide

There are so many fun activities to do every summer! So how can you make sure those activities don’t damage or harm your hearing aids? […]

Read More… from Your Summer Hearing Aid Guide

Kevin St. Clergy
| May 8, 2024

When Your Hearing Aid Needs Professional Maintenance & Repair

Experiencing difficulty hearing can be frustrating, especially when you’ve been diligent about caring for your hearing aids. You’ve treated them with care, ensuring they’re cleaned […]

Read More… from When Your Hearing Aid Needs Professional Maintenance & Repair

Close up image of hearing aid in man's ear.
Kevin St. Clergy
| April 19, 2024

Navigating the Transition: Adjusting to Your New Hearing Aids

A new hearing aid can sometimes take some getting used to. These easy tips can help you make that transition quickly. […]

Read More… from Navigating the Transition: Adjusting to Your New Hearing Aids

Find A Hearing Expert Near You Today

Discover everything you need to know about hearing loss and hearing aids and find top local hearing experts.

Find An Expert