A cotton swab, often referred to as a cotton bud, is a small stick with cotton at both ends. It is commonly used for personal hygiene, such as cleaning ears, applying makeup, or removing small amounts of dirt. The stick is usually made of plastic or paper, making it lightweight and easy to handle. Cotton swabs are also utilized in various applications beyond personal care. In medical settings, they can be used for taking samples or applying ointments. Additionally, they are popular in arts and crafts for detailed work, as well as in cleaning delicate items like electronics or jewelry.