{"id":28323,"date":"2025-01-23T18:00:35","date_gmt":"2025-01-23T18:00:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.may.app\/?p=28323"},"modified":"2025-11-24T13:30:31","modified_gmt":"2025-11-24T13:30:31","slug":"cleaning-a-babys-ears","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.may.app\/en\/blog\/newborn\/cleaning-a-babys-ears\/","title":{"rendered":"Cleaning a baby’s ears: the right way to do it"},"content":{"rendered":"

From diaper changes to daily hygiene, cleanliness plays an important role in your baby\u2019s life<\/strong>. It is even essential for their well-being. How do you clean your baby\u2019s ears? How often? Can you use a cotton swab?<\/span><\/p>\n

Cleaning a baby\u2019s ears<\/strong>: the complete guide.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why clean a baby\u2019s ears?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Earwax<\/strong> (this slightly waxy substance<\/strong> found in the external ear canal) is a natural protective mechanism<\/strong>. Earwax protects the inner ear<\/strong> by pushing out impurities<\/strong>, but if too much accumulates, it can form a blockage<\/strong>, affecting your baby\u2019s hearing and causing itching<\/strong> or pain<\/strong>. This is why you can monitor the condition of your baby\u2019s ears while removing any earwax that may extend only on the outer ear<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

How often should you clean a baby\u2019s ears?<\/span><\/h2>\n

The ear has its own internal cleaning system<\/strong> (earwax), so it is only necessary to clean the outer parts<\/strong> (what we call the external ear): but how often?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Daily<\/strong>: simply wipe<\/strong> your baby\u2019s external ear with a dry or slightly damp cotton pad. This helps remove visible impurities and prevent wax buildup<\/strong> without disturbing the eardrum.<\/span><\/p>\n

Good to know: if you notice a visible buildup of earwax<\/strong> or if your baby experiences frequent itching<\/strong>, a more targeted intervention may be needed. In that case, we advise against doing it yourself and encourage you to consult<\/strong> your pediatrician or doctor first. Your baby\u2019s ears are still fragile<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Want to learn more? Feel free to <\/span>download the May app<\/span><\/a>, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your journey as a new parent.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Nettoyer<\/p>\n

How do I clean my baby\u2019s ears?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Cleaning your baby\u2019s ears is normally part of your daily routine<\/strong>: but how should you do it?<\/span><\/p>\n

The right method<\/span><\/h3>\n

To properly clean your baby\u2019s ears, there are only two key points<\/strong> to know: <\/span><\/p>\n

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  • Focus only on the outer ear<\/strong>: do not attempt to clean inside the ear canal, as this could damage the eardrum or push the earwax deeper.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Use a dry cotton pad<\/strong>: with this cotton pad, gently wipe the outer ear. This is usually enough to remove impurities. Choose a clean, lint-free cotton pad or cloth. You can also make sure to thoroughly dry behind the ears<\/strong> after the bath by gently patting with a towel, as moisture often accumulates in that area.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n