Blocked ears can be more than just annoying; they can make sounds feel distant, cause discomfort, and even affect your balance.
In most cases, ear wax build-up is the culprit.
The good news?
You can often fix it safely at home with the best ear wax removal drops.
These drops help soften hardened ear wax, allowing it to come out naturally or making it easier for professionals to remove.
But with so many options on the shelves, it’s hard to know which ones actually work and which are just marketing hype.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- How ear wax removal drops work
- The best ear drops you can buy in the UK
- And when it’s time to skip the drops and visit a specialist like our team at Dewaxify, London’s trusted ear care clinic.
What are Ear Wax Removal Drops?
Ear wax removal drops are specially formulated liquid solutions used to soften and loosen hardened ear wax, making it easier for the body to expel naturally or for professionals to remove safely.
They’re usually made from gentle ingredients like olive oil, hydrogen peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, or glycerin, which help break down wax without irritating the ear canal.
Regular use of ear wax removal drops can help prevent blockages, improve hearing clarity, and maintain healthy ear hygiene, especially for people who naturally produce more wax or use hearing aids.
How Ear Wax Removal Drops Work
Ear drops contain ingredients that either soften, break down, or lubricate hardened wax so it can naturally move outward.
Your ears normally clean themselves, but certain conditions such as narrow canals, hearing aids, or age can cause wax to dry and block the canal.
When used correctly, drops can:
- Soften hard wax for easier removal
- Reduce irritation and itching
- Improve temporary muffled hearing
- Prepare the ear for safe microsuction
However, ear drops only work if wax is the cause. They can’t treat infections, fluid build-up, or allergies.
Types of Ear Wax Removal Drops and How They Work
Related Blog>>>>>
The Truth About Ear Candling: Does It Work, Is It Safe, and Should You Try It?
Top-Rated Ear Wax Removal Drops in the UK (2025)
These are some of the most trusted over-the-counter ear drops recommended by pharmacists and audiologists in the UK.
1. Olive Oil Drops (Generic or Medical-Grade)
Olive oil ear drops are one of the most trusted and natural ways to manage ear wax at home.
They work by gently softening hardened wax, making it easier for your ears to clear it out on their own.
Because they’re mild and widely available, olive oil drops are often the first recommendation from audiologists for safe, regular ear care.
- Natural and gentle for regular ear care.
- Lubricates and softens wax, allowing it to move outward naturally.
- Safe for most people, including those with mild skin sensitivities.
How to use: 2–3 drops twice a day for up to 5 days.
Best for: Preventing wax hardening and maintaining ear hygiene.
2. Earol Olive Oil Spray
Earol Olive Oil Spray offers a cleaner, more convenient alternative to traditional ear drop bottles.
It delivers a fine mist of pharmaceutical-grade olive oil directly into the ear, helping to soften wax and keep your ears moisturised.
Many people prefer it for its mess-free application especially before professional microsuction treatments.
- Contains pharmaceutical-grade olive oil in a convenient mist spray.
- Designed for daily use or before microsuction appointments.
- Ideal for those who dislike traditional droppers.
Pros: Simple one-hand application, less mess.
Cons: Not suitable for perforated eardrums.
3. Otex Express Ear Drops
Otex Express Ear Drops are a fast-acting solution designed to clear even the most stubborn ear wax build-up.
Unlike natural oils that simply soften wax, Otex works by releasing gentle oxygen bubbles that actively break it down.
This bubbling action helps loosen hardened wax safely, making it easier for your ears to clear naturally or before a professional cleaning.
It’s a trusted choice for people who want quick results without visiting a clinic right away.
- Contains urea hydrogen peroxide, which releases oxygen bubbles to break down wax.
- Effective for stubborn, hardened wax that causes blockage.
- Usually works within 3–4 days of regular use.
Precaution: May cause mild fizzing or temporary sensitivity. Avoid if the ear is inflamed or painful.
4. Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops (CarePlus)
Sodium Bicarbonate Ear Drops are a simple but effective option for tackling stubborn ear wax.
They work by gently breaking down the wax’s structure, allowing it to dissolve and clear more easily.
Because they’re affordable and available in most UK pharmacies, these drops are often recommended before professional ear cleaning, especially if wax has become dry or compacted.
- Works by softening and chemically dissolving wax.
- Inexpensive and widely available in UK pharmacies.
- Often recommended before professional microsuction.
Note: Can cause dryness or slight irritation in sensitive skin. Use for short periods only.
5. Audiclean Ear Cleansing Wash
Audiclean Ear Cleansing Wash offers a gentle, non-medicated way to keep your ears clean and wax-free.
It uses isotonic seawater to rinse away softened wax and everyday debris without drying or irritating the ear canal.
This makes it a great choice for regular ear care and prevention, rather than treating heavy or impacted wax.
- Uses isotonic seawater to flush out softened wax.
- Non-medicated, gentle daily option for people prone to mild wax build-up.
Best for: Regular maintenance, not severe blockage.
Comparison – Best Ear Wax Removal Drops in the UK (2025)
How to Use Ear Drops Safely
Ear drops are simple to use, but improper application can cause more harm than good. Follow these guidelines for safe and effective use:
- Check your eardrum condition. Avoid drops if you have a perforated eardrum, recent ear surgery, or active infection.
- Warm the bottle slightly. Hold it in your hands for a few minutes before use to avoid dizziness from cold drops.
- Lie on your side. Place 2–3 drops into the affected ear.
- Stay still for 5 minutes. Let the liquid coat and penetrate the wax.
- Wipe excess oil gently. Use a tissue; do not insert anything into your ear.
- Repeat as directed. Usually twice a day for 3–5 days before professional cleaning.
If you develop pain, discharge, or hearing loss, stop using drops and seek professional advice immediately.
When Ear Drops Aren’t Enough
Ear drops are great for softening hardened wax, but they don’t always clear it completely.
Sometimes, the wax is too dry, too deep, or too compacted for drops to work on their own.
If your hearing still feels muffled after several days of use, or if your ear continues to feel blocked, it’s a sign that the wax needs professional attention.
Continuing to use drops without results can sometimes make things worse pushing the wax deeper or causing irritation.
That’s when professional ear cleaning, such as microsuction, becomes the safest and most effective next step.
It removes the wax instantly, without water or discomfort, and helps you hear clearly again.
This is especially true if you experience:
- Persistent muffled hearing
- Dizziness or fullness after using drops
- Pain, itching, or discharge
- Repeated wax build-up
At this point, professional microsuction ear wax removal is the safest next step.
Why Microsuction Is a Better Option for Stubborn Wax
When ear drops don’t do the job, microsuction offers a faster, cleaner, and more effective solution.
This professional procedure uses a gentle suction device and a microscope to remove ear wax directly without the need for water or waiting days for drops to take effect.
It’s quick, safe, and performed by trained audiologists who can precisely target the blockage without touching the delicate parts of your ear.
Most people notice clearer hearing instantly after the treatment, making it the preferred option for those struggling with stubborn or recurring wax.
✅ Key Benefits of Microsuction:
- Instant relief: Wax is removed completely in one short appointment.
- Safe for everyone: Suitable even for people with perforated eardrums or hearing aids.
- No water or mess: A dry, controlled process that keeps your ears clean and comfortable.
- Minimal discomfort: Gentle suction with no pressure or dizziness.
- Low infection risk: The procedure is sterile and precise, performed under direct vision.
Dewaxify, London’s trusted ear care clinic, specialises in microsuction ear wax removal. Each appointment includes:
- Detailed ear examination (HD otoscopy)
- Pain-free wax removal using medical-grade suction
- Free hearing test online
- Aftercare and prevention tips
Appointments start from £60 and take about 25–30 minutes.
Ear Drops vs Professional Microsuction
Dewaxify: London’s Specialist Ear Wax Removal Clinic
Dewaxify is a professional ear care clinic based in Ilford, East London, founded in April 2017 by Sita Parmar, a qualified Audiological Scientist.
Dewaxify’s Services
- Microsuction Ear Wax Removal – safe, dry, and quick.
- HD Otoscopy – real-time ear canal imaging.
- Free Online Hearing Test – identify hearing loss or wax-related changes.
- Aftercare Support – personal ear care advice after treatment.
Ready for clear hearing again?
If ear drops haven’t solved the problem, let Dewaxify’s audiologists help.
Book your same-day microsuction appointment at Dewaxify Ilford and experience instant relief.
Book Your Appointment Now
FAQs
What are the best ear wax removal drops in the UK?
Olive oil, Otex Express, Earol, and sodium bicarbonate drops are top-rated and widely available.
How often should I use ear drops?
Use 2–3 drops twice daily for 3–5 days unless otherwise advised.
Are ear drops safe for everyone?
Safe, but avoid use if you have ear pain, infection, or perforated eardrums.
What if ear drops don’t work?
If your ears still feel blocked, visit a clinic for professional microsuction.
Is microsuction better than ear drops?
Yes. Microsuction removes wax instantly and safely, while drops may take days or fail on hard plugs.
