Yes, you can shower your ear, and it's often a good time to clean them. However, you should do so gently.
How to Safely Clean Your Ears in the Shower
Cleaning your ears in the shower can be part of your regular hygiene routine. Here's a safe way to do it, based on the reference information:
- Use mild soap and warm water: The shower provides an easy way to access warm water, which is ideal for ear cleaning.
- Clean the outer ear: Use a soft towel or your fingertips to gently clean the outer parts of your ear.
- Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal: Cotton swabs, or other objects should be avoided, as they can push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
- Gentle water stream (optional and if needed): If needed, direct a very gentle stream of warm water into the ear canal. Do this carefully and only when necessary. Never use a high-pressure stream.
Table: Safe Ear Cleaning Practices in the Shower
| Aspect | How to do it Safely |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | Use warm water, not hot. |
| Soap | Use mild soap. |
| Cleaning Area | Focus on the outer ear, avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. |
| Water Stream | Use a very gentle stream if needed, and only for flushing out loose debris or earwax. Never a high pressure stream. |
| Drying | Gently pat your ear dry with a clean towel. |
Additional Tips for Ear Care
- Don't overclean: Over-cleaning your ears can irritate them and push earwax deeper.
- Consult a doctor: If you experience ear pain, excessive wax build-up, or hearing issues, consult a healthcare professional instead of trying to clean it yourself.
