Object Stuck in Baby's Ear: What to Do | Parenting Hub
Small beads, food or cotton tips can get stuck in baby's ear. Don't probe — see your GP or emergency department for safe removal.
If something is stuck in baby's ear, don't try to dig it out — see your GP or emergency department for safe removal.
What to do
Stay calm. Don't try tweezers, cotton buds or fingers — you can push the object deeper or scratch the canal. Take baby to your GP or local emergency department for safe removal.
If it's an insect
Tilt the affected ear upward and put a few drops of warm (not hot) olive oil in to drown the insect, then go to your GP. Don't do this if you suspect the eardrum is perforated (recent ear infection, discharge or bleeding).
When to seek help
- Battery in the ear — go straight to emergency (can burn within hours)
- Bleeding, severe pain or hearing loss
- Object can be seen but won't come out easily
Common questions
Can I flush it out with water?
Not at home — water can swell some objects (like seeds) and make removal harder. Leave it to a clinician.