Using hydrogen peroxide for ear wax removal is a common home remedy for getting rid of excessive ear wax, and even many doctors recommend this form of ear cleaning. Earwax, also called cerumen, prevents foreign contaminants like dust and micro-organisms from entering the ear canal, but excessive wax buildup can cause discomfort and hearing loss. One should not use hydrogen peroxide for ear wax removal if one has ear pain or if there is fluid discharge coming from the ear. In these cases it is advisable to consult a doctor. People with sensitive skin should not use this ear wax home remedy, because it can cause skin irritation.

When applying hydrogen peroxide for ear wax removal, one should use a 3 % solution of hydrogen peroxide, commonly available from any drugstore. The hydrogen peroxide will work on its own, but sometimes oil is added to loosen the earwax further. Baby oil or olive oil work well for this purpose. An eye dropper makes it easier to administer the hydrogen peroxide and oil to the ear.

Tilt the head while standing up, or lie down exposing the ear to be treated. The oil, if used, should be administered first. Using the eyedropper, place two to three drops of oil in the ear and wait a couple of minutes before administering the hydrogen peroxide. Put two to three drops of hydrogen peroxide into the ear using the eyedropper. It will bubble and fizz quite noisily.

Keep the head still until the fizzing stops. This usually takes a few minutes. Then tilt or turn the head, making sure that all the liquid is allowed to drain from the ear. Wipe the ear clean using a cotton ball. Gently squirt warm water into the treated ear with a syringe or bulb aspirator to help clean out the wax. Never use sharp objects to clean the ear.

It is sometimes necessary to repeat this procedure, especially if there is impacted ear wax in the ear canal. Use the hydrogen peroxide for ear wax removal twice a day for up to three to four days if needed, to loosen and clean out all the wax. A cotton ball can be placed in the ear between treatments to prevent drips from staining clothes. If there is hardened wax in the ear canal, it is advisable to see a doctor rather than using this procedure. There is a risk of ear and jaw pain after using hydrogen peroxide for ear wax removal, and it is not recommended to use this treatment right before flying.