Many people use cotton swabs to clean wax from their ears, but ENT doctors warn that there are considerable health risks. Earwax protects the ear canal and should only be removed if medically necessary. If used incorrectly, swabs can push wax deeper, cause infections or even perforate the eardrum. ENT specialist Ines Weinzierl also advises against other home remedies like ear candles. She recommends using a tissue to remove visible wax. For persistent buildup, the safest option is professional cleaning.