NHS Ear Wax Removal: Is It Still Available?

Ear wax removal was once a routine service offered free of charge at most NHS GP surgeries. However, in recent years, many practices have stopped providing this service, leaving many people unsure of where to turn.

What's changed?

Ear wax removal was reclassified in many areas as a service that is not routinely commissioned by Clinical Commissioning Groups (now Integrated Care Boards). This means that while some GP surgeries still offer it, many no longer do. The change has been gradual and varies significantly by region.

Where you can still get NHS ear wax removal

Some options remain within the NHS:

• GP surgeries — a minority still offer ear syringing or irrigation. Call your practice to check.
• NHS audiology departments — some will remove wax as part of a hearing assessment pathway, particularly if wax is preventing an accurate hearing test.
• Community clinics — in some areas, NHS-funded community ear care clinics have been set up to fill the gap.

Self-care advice from the NHS

The NHS advises trying olive oil or sodium bicarbonate ear drops for 5–7 days to soften ear wax before seeking professional removal. In many cases, this can resolve the problem without the need for clinical intervention. Drops are available cheaply from any pharmacy.

Private alternatives

If NHS ear wax removal isn't available in your area, private microsuction is widely accessible and typically costs between £40 and £90 for both ears. Many audiologists and hearing care providers offer this service with short waiting times, often with same-day or next-day appointments available.

Never attempt to remove ear wax with cotton buds, ear candles, or any object inserted into the ear canal, as this can cause damage or push the wax further in.