Clinics offering ear wax removal

Ear wax usually looks after itself. It works its way slowly out of the ear canal and falls away, and most people never need it removed. When it does build up, the NHS suggests trying drops first: 2 or 3 drops of medical-grade olive or almond oil, 3 or 4 times a day for 3 to 5 days. Don't use oil if your eardrum might be perforated.

If your hearing is still muffled after that, or the blocked feeling, earache or ringing hasn't settled, the next step is removal by a trained clinician. NICE guidance recommends microsuction or electronic irrigation and advises against old-style manual syringing. Many GP practices no longer remove wax, so people are often pointed to a pharmacy or a private clinic like the ones below.

Expect the clinician to look inside both ears before starting. Prices vary by clinic and area, but £45 to £100 for both ears is typical, and home visits cost more. Our guide to what happens at an appointment walks through it step by step.