Get water out of your ears safely and quickly—this is a concern that nearly every swimmer, bather, or beachgoer has faced at least once. Whether you feel a slight blockage or full-on muffled hearing, trapped moisture can be more than just uncomfortable.
If you need a quick set of techniques, you might find these practical tips helpful. However, read on for a deeper look at the potential risks, six proven methods, and prevention steps so you can keep your ears healthy in the long run.
What Are the Risks if Water Stays in Your Ears?
When water lingers in your ear canal, it creates a moist environment that encourages bacterial or fungal growth. According to one study, up to 62% of frequent swimmers report temporary hearing issues related to fluid buildup, which can increase the likelihood of infections like swimmer’s ear.
Prolonged water retention can also lead to pain, inflammation, and even short-term balance problems. This risk grows when combined with public pools or lakes, which may harbor microbes. For more on potential hazards, check out ways you can get sick from pool water if the water you’re swimming in isn’t clean.
6 Effective Ways to Get Water Out of Your Ears
Below are six approaches that many people find helpful. Always take a gentle approach, and if discomfort persists, consult a medical professional.
1) Gravity and Ear Lobe Tug
This simple method uses gravity to help dislodge trapped water. Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear angled downward. Gently tug or jiggle your earlobe to straighten the ear canal, giving water a clearer path to exit. You can even hop or shift your jaw to enhance drainage.
Most people find success within a minute or two. If you still feel water inside, give it a short rest and repeat. Avoid any harsh shaking or rapid head movements that could lead to dizziness.
2) The Vacuum Technique
This technique creates a slight suction to pull water out. Cup your palm firmly over your ear, tilt your head to the side, and press and release gently to make a vacuum effect. The pressure difference often draws out trapped fluid.
Do not press too aggressively. If done properly, you may feel or hear the water shifting. If you want more step-by-step instructions, explore this guide with additional methods that expand on vacuum techniques.
3) Valsalva Maneuver
The Valsalva maneuver can open your Eustachian tubes, helping fluid escape. Gently pinch your nose, close your mouth, and exhale softly—like you’re blowing up a balloon. You should feel pressure shifting in your ears.
Dive instructors often use this trick to rebalance ear pressure, but be careful not to blow too hard. An overly forceful attempt could worsen any preexisting ear problems. If you notice pain, stop immediately.
4) Warm Compress
A warm compress may loosen stubborn water and help it evaporate. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring it out. Hold it over the affected ear for 30 seconds, then take a break for around a minute. Repeat several times.
Keeping the cloth at a safe temperature is key—too hot, and you risk skin irritation. This approach can also soothe any mild discomfort you’re experiencing.
5) Over-the-Counter Drying Drops
Ear-drying drops—often containing isopropyl alcohol—are designed to promote evaporation. According to some research, properly formulated drops can have a success rate near 95% in preventing external ear infections among frequent swimmers.
You simply tilt your head, add a few drops, and wait for them to drain after a short moment. Always read the instructions carefully. People with ear tubes or known eardrum issues should consult a professional before using any drops.
6) Low-Heat Hair Dryer
Using a hair dryer on the lowest heat and fan settings can evaporate trapped water. Hold the dryer about a foot away from your ear, and gently wave it back and forth. The warm air can speed up the drying process.
Set it too hot, and you risk burning your skin or stirring up debris in the ear canal. Keep the dryer moving to avoid prolonged direct heat. This method can be surprisingly effective in a pinch.
How to Prevent Water from Getting Trapped in the Ears
Prevention is always easier than fixing a problem. One of the best ways to avoid ear complications is by wearing swimming earplugs. These create a protective seal against water. After each swim or shower, thoroughly dry your outer ear with a soft towel.
Some swimmers find that saltwater pools cause fewer ear issues than heavily chlorinated alternatives. If you’re curious about how saltwater systems compare, explore saltwater pools: benefits, risks, and more for a closer look. Another straightforward prevention tip is to gently shake out excess moisture from your ears before stepping away from the water.
Also, be mindful about earwax removal. Overcleaning can leave your ear canal defenseless, while too much wax can trap fluid. Try to keep a balanced approach, and if you suspect an earwax buildup is causing problems, an audiologist can recommend safe cleaning options.
Wrapping Up
Trapped ear fluid may feel like a minor annoyance, but it can lead to bigger issues if ignored. Use gentle, proven techniques like the gravity method or low-heat dryer to address water in the ear, and develop habits that keep water from lingering in the first place.
If you frequently swim in mineral-heavy or chlorinated water, you may want to learn about related issues that affect hair and skin. This overview on damage and prevention from hard water can be a useful read if you notice extra dryness in addition to ear concerns.
Stay attentive to any ongoing discomfort. Early treatment is always easier than managing complications. With the right habits, you’ll keep your ears clear, comfortable, and ready for your next swim.
References
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). How to get water out of your ear. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-water-out-of-your-ear
Mayo Clinic. (2022). Swimmer’s ear: Symptoms & causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/swimmers-ear/symptoms-causes/syc-20351682
Medical News Today. (2022). Water in ear: Five ways to get it out. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315544
