The earwax in your toddler’s ears is there for a reason: to protect her ear canals by trapping dirt and keeping bacteria from growing so quickly.¹ Cleaning it out with a cotton swab or anything else could puncture her eardrum, so if you’re worried about wax buildup, talk to your pediatrician. It’s fine to use a cotton swab moistened with peroxide or oil to clean the outer parts of your child’s ears. A wet washcloth will work too.²

 

¹ “Earwax blockage: Definition,”http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/earwax-blockage/DS00052;

² “Can I clean my toddler's ears with a cotton swab?,” http://www.babycenter.com/404_can-i-clean-my-toddlers-ears-with-a-cotton-swab_12473.bc