Does anyone still use ear/cotton buds on their children?

[burstingbug]

If you do, please stop!

I was cleaning DS1's outer ear, not even cleaning the inner part of the ear.
He moved his head suddenly then let out a scream followed by lots of blood.
A trip to minor injuries showed that he had a torn ear drum
That was 2 weeks ago, I am hoping that when I return to MI tomorrow, they will tell me it's all healed and no lasting damage.
I think I have managed to keep it dry and there has been no sign of infection.

Please, no matter how carefully you think you are using them - put them in the bin.

oh no poor DS

Oh no, poor you and poor Little Bug. I use the corner of a towel to remove DS's ear potatoes - he produces really impressive ones and I can't bear to leave them in situ for all to see!

oh poor little bug and poor you

my DCs ears seem to self clean, and i clean out any visible bits with a flannel, in the bath