Just as you keep the rest of your body clean and groomed, don't forget to take care of your ears. Looking after your ears supports your hearing health, so there is no better time to build these habits into your routine.

DON'TS

1. Don't use cotton buds.
   Placing anything small into your ear canal could damage your ear drum. Live by the rule: don't put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear.
2. Don't smoke.
   Studies have shown that smokers have a heightened risk of developing hearing loss.
3. Don't use ear candles.
   Candling carries warnings from health professionals because of the risk of burns. Users are exposed to a naked flame close to the face, and risk wax or ash falling on them.
4. Don't blast the headphones.
   Keep your headphones at a reasonable volume to lower your risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
5. Don't ignore changes to your ears or pain.
   If you notice any change to your hearing or experience pain, seek medical advice promptly.

DO'S

1. Get your hearing checked.
   Have your hearing checked regularly so any change is identified early and you can discuss options with a professional.
2. Use earplugs.
   Wearing earplugs reduces the amount of noise reaching your ears. This matters most if you work somewhere with excessive or prolonged noise exposure. See our industrial ear plugs range for worksite options.
3. Exercise.
   Research suggests exercise and good cardiovascular health can benefit your hearing.
4. Dry your ears.
   Dry your ears well with a towel after swimming or showering to reduce the risk of conditions such as swimmer's ear. Swim plugs help keep water out in the first place.
5. Get a professional to handle ear wax.
   If you produce a lot of ear wax, have a professional remove it. Don't risk damaging your ear canal or ear drum by trying it yourself at home.