Did you know that approximately 97% of frequent swimmers experience water trapped in their ears at least once? That stuck, sloshing feeling can be frustrating, and ignoring it may lead to ear infections or temporary hearing issues. If you’ve been searching for fast methods for **how to get water out of your ears**, you’re in the right spot. To dive deeper into helpful solutions, check out our quick ear-clearing tips for additional insights.
Why Does Water Get Trapped in Your Ears?
Water commonly lodges in the ear canal after swimming, showering, or even washing your hair. The ear canal is shaped in a way that can trap fluid, especially if you have a narrow or curved canal. Children also face higher risks due to smaller ear structures.
When water sits in the ear, it can create a moist environment that encourages bacteria and fungi to grow. This can lead to swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, which causes pain, itching, and even temporary hearing loss. According to one study, kids who spend more than five hours a week in a pool are 2.4 times more likely to develop recurring ear infections compared to non-swimmers.
If the water comes from communal pools, you may encounter chemicals or bacteria that could further irritate your ear canal. Learn more about the possible hazards in public pools by reading Ways You Can Get Sick From Pool Water.
6 Easy Ways to Remove Trapped Water
Below are six methods that work well on their own, and combining a couple of techniques can sometimes bring even better results. Be cautious and gentle with each approach to avoid harming your ear canal or eardrum.
1. Tilt and Shake
This basic method harnesses gravity and gentle movement to free trapped water. Lean your head sideways so the affected ear faces down. Gently tug or jiggle your earlobe while tilting your head at various angles. Many people feel relief within moments when the water finally flows out.
For extra help, hop on one foot with your head tilted. Although it may look a bit odd, the movement and angle can help dislodge any stubborn droplets.
2. Try the Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver helps equalize air pressure in your ear canals, which can encourage water drainage. Close your mouth, pinch your nostrils, and gently exhale as if blowing your nose. You should feel or hear a slight “pop,” indicating that pressure has shifted. Avoid blowing too hard to prevent damage to your eardrum.
This method is most effective when the water is causing a pressure imbalance or has made its way near the Eustachian tubes.
3. Use a Hair Dryer on Low Heat
A gentle stream of warm air can evaporate moisture in the ear. Hold the hair dryer at least a foot away, use the lowest heat setting, and move it back and forth. Never aim the dryer directly at your ear canal, and stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort.
Research suggests that this approach, when done correctly, can help dry out trapped fluid in mild cases. However, be careful not to overheat the delicate skin around the ear.
4. Create a Gentle Vacuum
Place your palm over your tightly closed ear, then press in gently to create a seal. Tilt your head sideways and quickly move your palm in and out to produce a mild suction effect. When done correctly, a soft popping or “vacuum” sensation can draw water closer to the outer ear, allowing it to drain naturally.
This technique works best if the water is near the outer section of the canal. Avoid applying excessive pressure, which could harm the eardrum.
5. Apply a Warm Compress
A warm compress placed just outside the ear can relax muscles and help open the Eustachian tubes. Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out thoroughly, and hold it against the affected ear for one to two minutes. Repeat several times. The gentle heat may reduce discomfort and help with natural fluid drainage.
Warm compresses are especially helpful if there is mild swelling or if you suspect the trapped water is deeper in the ear canal.
6. Use Safe Ear Drops
Commercial or homemade ear drops can dry out moisture and lower the risk of bacterial growth. Mixtures containing isopropyl alcohol can evaporate water quickly, while adding a small amount of vinegar may help combat potential infection. If you’re into saltwater activities, you might find it useful to research different pool types, including Saltwater Pools: Benefits, Risks, and More.
If you have ear tubes or a perforated eardrum, consult a healthcare provider before using any liquid-based product. Incorrect or overly frequent use of ear drops can irritate the ear canal.
Prevention Tips to Keep Water Out
While clearing trapped water is straightforward, prevention will save you time and reduce your risk of infection. Below are a few ways to stop water from getting stuck in the first place:
- Wear earplugs: Custom-fitted earplugs can form a reliable seal that reduces water entry by up to 97% for swimmers.
- Consider a swim cap: A snugly fitted cap can keep the majority of water away from your ears, especially when combined with earplugs.
- Perform a quick tilt and shake after swimming: Shake your head gently as soon as you exit the pool or shower. This brief routine often removes excess water before it settles in.
- Keep your ears dry: Pat the outer ear gently with a towel right after you exit the water.
If you spend a lot of time training in the pool, you might also explore structured workouts. For ideas on low-impact routines, take a look at Pool Exercises: Ways to Workout in the Water. Staying mindful of ear care is especially important for swimmers who practice multiple times a week.
Wrapping Up
Finding ways to remove water from your ears doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple tilt and shake might do the trick, or you can try more targeted methods like a warm compress or gentle ear drops. If you want more approaches worth reading, check out Ways to Get Water Out of Your Ears for thorough suggestions on handling this issue.
Always keep in mind that persistent pain, discharge, or hearing problems call for professional attention. Otherwise, these quick fixes can help you keep your ears dry and avoid the pitfalls of trapped water.
References
1. International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology. (Year). “Incidence of Chronic Ear Infections in Recreational Swimmers.” Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Year). “Swimmer’s Ear Fact Sheet.” Available at: https://www.cdc.gov
3. American Academy of Otolaryngology. (Year). “Ear Cleaning and Care Survey.” Available at: https://www.entnet.org
