| HS Code | Official Doc | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3924905650 | Doc | 40.9% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 3924900500 | Doc | 40.6% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9615906000 | Doc | 41.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9615904000 | Doc | 35.3% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9620003090 | Doc | The rate applicable to the article of which it is an accessory+30.0% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
| 9620005000 | Doc | 60.3% | CN | US | 2025-05-12 |
Ear Picking Set
An ear picking set (also known as an ear cleaning kit, or er shao in Chinese, literally "ear digging") is a tool used for removing earwax from the ear canal. While modern otolaryngologists generally advise against self-extraction due to potential risks, these sets remain popular, particularly in some Asian cultures, for personal hygiene and perceived ear health benefits.
Material
Ear picking sets are typically constructed from:
- Stainless Steel: The most common material, valued for its durability, ease of sterilization, and resistance to corrosion. Different grades of stainless steel are used, with higher grades preferred for hygiene.
- Bamboo: Traditionally used, particularly for the scoops. Bamboo is soft and flexible, making it less likely to cause damage if used carefully. However, it's less durable and harder to sterilize effectively.
- Plastic: Some sets include plastic components, often for storage or less-critical parts. Quality varies significantly.
Purpose
The primary purpose of an ear picking set is to remove cerumen (earwax) from the ear canal. Proponents believe regular ear cleaning improves hearing, alleviates ear discomfort, and prevents ear infections. However, excessive earwax removal can disrupt the ear's natural protective mechanisms.
Function
Ear picking sets usually consist of multiple tools designed for different aspects of ear cleaning:
- Scoops (or Spoons): Used to gently scoop out softened earwax. Different sizes and curvatures are provided for various ear canal shapes.
- Pick(s): Thin, pointed instruments used to loosen and extract earwax. These require careful handling to avoid injury.
- Tweezers: Used for removing larger pieces of earwax or debris.
- Ear Wash Syringe/Bulb: Some sets include a syringe for irrigating the ear canal with water or saline solution to soften earwax before removal.
- Magnifying Glass/Ear Scope: Higher-end sets may include a magnifying glass or a basic otoscope to aid visibility during cleaning.
- Headlamp: Some sets come with a headlamp for better illumination.
Usage Scenarios
- Personal Hygiene: Regular cleaning as part of a personal grooming routine.
- Ear Discomfort: Attempting to relieve a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear. Note: Persistent discomfort should be addressed by a medical professional.
- Cerumen Impaction: Trying to remove a build-up of earwax. Note: Significant impaction should be treated by a medical professional.
Common Types/Configurations
- Traditional Chinese Sets (Er Shao): Typically include a variety of stainless steel scoops and picks, often with a bamboo handle.
- Professional Sets: Include a wider range of tools, including otoscopes, irrigation syringes, and sometimes a suction device. These are often marketed to healthcare professionals or individuals with specific ear care needs.
- Basic Sets: Contain a few essential scoops and picks, suitable for occasional use.
- Sets with LED illumination: Incorporate LED lights for improved visibility.
- Battery powered suction sets: Use suction to remove earwax.
Disclaimer: Self-extraction of earwax carries risks, including ear canal injury, infection, and temporary hearing loss. Consult a medical professional if you experience persistent ear discomfort or suspect a significant earwax impaction.
An ear picking set typically consists of tools designed for removing earwax and cleaning the ear canal. These sets are generally made of materials like stainless steel, plastic, or a combination of both, and are used for personal hygiene.
The following HS codes may be relevant:
- 3924905650: This code covers tableware, kitchenware, and other household articles made of plastics. Given that ear picking sets can include plastic components, this code may apply. The basic tariff is 3.4%, with an additional tariff of 7.5%. After April 2, 2025, the additional tariff increases to 30.0%, resulting in a total tariff of 40.9%.
- 3924900500: This code specifically covers nursing nipples and finger cots, also made of plastics. While not a direct match, some ear picking sets may include small plastic tips or components similar in nature, potentially falling under this classification. The basic tariff is 3.1%, with an additional tariff of 7.5%. After April 2, 2025, the additional tariff increases to 30.0%, resulting in a total tariff of 40.6%.
- 9615906000: This code covers combs, hair-slides, hairpins, curling pins, and similar articles, excluding those of heading 8516, and parts thereof. Some ear picking sets may be categorized as personal grooming tools similar to these articles. The basic tariff is 11.0%, with an additional tariff of 0.0%. After April 2, 2025, the additional tariff increases to 30.0%, resulting in a total tariff of 41.0%.
Regarding HS code 3924905650 and 3924900500, please note the additional tariff increase to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.