Beware of Ear Injuries from Wearing Earbuds Too Long

Earbuds are loyal companions. They’re there when we work, exercise, or commute—and sometimes, they even stay with us while we sleep.

But did you know that wearing earbuds for too long—especially ones that fit tightly and completely block the ear canal—can lead to minor injuries and even infections?

Micro-Injuries in the Ear

Wearing earbuds continuously can cause irritation, chafing, or minor cuts inside the ear, mainly when used for extended periods or during sleep.

The friction between the earbuds and the skin, combined with uneven pressure, can cause the sensitive skin in the ear canal to become red, sore, peeling, and in some cases, infected.

Some common earbud-related causes include:

• Trapping moisture and sweat inside the ear canal, especially during workouts.
• Pushing earwax deeper into the ear, leading to blockages and irritation.
• It becomes a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly.

The ear canal provides the perfect environment for growing bacteria and fungi—warm, moist, and enclosed. Dirty earbuds can make this situation even worse.

Signs of an Ear Infection

If you experience the following symptoms, you might be dealing with an ear infection caused by prolonged earbud use:

• ear pain or itchiness;
• a feeling of fullness or blockage;
• discharge or foul odor from the ear;
• temporary hearing loss;
• mild fever or nausea.

Stop using earbuds and consult a doctor. Depending on the cause, outer ear infections are typically treated with antibiotics, antifungal, or steroid ear drops.

How to Use Earbuds Safely

Don’t worry! If you use good hygiene responsibly, you can still enjoy your favorite music and podcasts with earbuds.

Here are some safe-use tips:

1. Stop using earbuds if you have an ear infection
   If your ear is infected or still recovering, avoid using earbuds until it fully heals.
2. Clean your earbuds regularly.
   Disinfect your earbuds using alcohol wipes at least once a week. Wipe them immediately after heavy workouts or sweat-inducing activities to prevent bacterial buildup and moisture retention.
3. Consider over-ear headphones.
   If you often experience ear problems, switch to over-ear headphones that don’t go inside your ear canal. They reduce the risk of irritation and infection.
4. Be gentle with your ears.
   Avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into your ears, as this can damage the ear canal and push wax further inside. Instead, use a soft, damp washcloth to clean the outer ear.
   
   If you feel a blockage, it’s best to see a doctor rather than trying to clean it yourself too deeply.

Even the most minor earbud-related wound deserves proper care. Use wund+™ Wound Spray to gently cleanse the affected area without stinging. This spray also helps prevent infection, especially in moist and sensitive areas like the ears.

Earbuds are convenient, but don’t ignore their potential effects on your ear health. Keep them clean, limit usage time, and treat even the tiniest wounds early.

Healthy ears, happy listening!

References

Amplifon. Accessed in 2025. Why Do Earbuds and Headphones Hurt My Ears?

OSF Healthcare. Accessed in 2025. Can Earbuds Cause Ear Infections?