EAR WAX : WHEN IS IT TOO MUCH? MUST I CLEAN MY EARS? WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN? ETC

THE EAR
The ear is the sense organ for hearing. It helps us appreciate sounds around us (and yes, it can save our lives eg. The sound of a hissing snake tells us to be careful and alert. The ear is also for balancing.

Picture source https://goo.gl/images/FhDWdh

EAR WAX
It is composed of secretion of sebaceous glands, hair, desquamated epithelial debris and dirt, amongst others.
It has a protective function to lubricate the ear canal and entrap foreign material (yes, the wax is helpful too).

Picture source https://goo.gl/images/8n6nr6
However, excess wax is not good. Excess wax may dry up and form a hard impacted mass. Some people may have impaired hearing or sense of blocked ear

CLEANING THE EAR
In an ear that has never be cleaned (especially in babies),wax comes out by itself. This is because the hairs in the ear are designed to beat outwards, thus pushing the wax out. But when people clean their ears the wrong way, they change the direction of the beat (causing retention of wax. Some people even injure their eardrum while cleaning wrongly

THE RIGHT WAY
Some people say cotton buds should not be used to clean the ears. However, if done rightly, the cotton bud can be used. Some people push the wax further inwards in a bid to clean their ears. If you must clean, hold your external ear upwards and outwards to straighten the ear canal (for an adult. this is because the canal is not straight but like a "lazy S"),angulate the cotton bud to the roof of the ear (gently)and then as if you are scooping, gently bring the wax out.

Picture source https://goo.gl/images/bzhzLb
The picture above is close to what I'm describing. Though not 100%.

FINAL WORDS
Never stick sharp objects into the ear. If you know you have much wax, see an Ear physician (there are methods to safely get it out eg. Syringing). Please don't patronize quacks or try to do it on your own. For all other ear issues, kindly see a qualified Medical Doctor.