Safe Methods to Remove Water from Your Ear
If you have water trapped in your ear, try these safe and effective methods:
- Gravity and Movement: Tilt your head to the side with the affected ear facing down. Gently pull on your earlobe and jiggle it while hopping on one foot.
- Create a Vacuum: Tilt your head sideways and press the palm of your hand firmly against your ear. Push and release quickly to create a suction that can pull the water out.
- Use a Hair Dryer: Set your hair dryer on the lowest, coolest setting. Hold it at least a foot away from your ear and gently blow air toward the ear canal to help evaporate the water.
- Over-the-Counter Eardrops: Use rubbing alcohol-based eardrops (swimmer’s ear drops) to help dry out the water. You can also make a homemade solution with equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol.
What NOT to Do
- Avoid using cotton swabs (Q-tips) or inserting any objects into your ear canal, as this can push the water deeper, damage the ear canal, or perforate the eardrum.
- Do not use hydrogen peroxide or other chemicals unless directed by a doctor.
- Avoid sticking your finger or fingernails into your ear.
When to See a Doctor
Contact a healthcare provider if you experience pain, drainage, hearing loss, itching, or a feeling of fullness that lasts more than a couple of days, as this could indicate an infection like swimmer’s ear (otitis externa).