You know the feeling: after a refreshing swim or a long shower, you step out only to find that your ear feels clogged, like there’s a little ocean trapped inside. That’s water in your ear, and it can be more than annoying—it can affect your hearing, cause discomfort, and even increase the risk of infection if it doesn’t drain properly. Learning how to get water out of your ear isn’t just about comfort; it’s about taking simple steps to prevent problems down the road.
Water tends to get stuck in the ear canal due to its narrow, winding shape, and various factors like earwax buildup or individual ear anatomy can make this more likely. But don’t worry—with a few safe, easy-to-follow techniques, you can get the water out of your ear, avoid infections, and feel comfortable again.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best methods for getting water out of your ear. From simple gravity techniques to effective tools, these tips are quick and safe. Follow along, and the next time you have water trapped in your ear, you’ll know exactly what to do.
Benefits of These Methods:
- Fast, effective relief from clogged ears
- No need for special tools or medications
- Prevention of ear infections and discomfort
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Get Water Out of Your Ear
Step 1: Tilt Your Head and Jiggle the Earlobe
What to Do: Start with a straightforward approach by tilting your head to the side of the affected ear and gently tugging on your earlobe.
How to Do It: Lean your head to the side with the affected ear facing downward. Use your fingers to lightly pull your earlobe down and gently jiggle it. Sometimes, a few light shakes of your head can help dislodge any trapped water.
Why It Matters: By tilting your head and gently pulling your earlobe, you create space in the ear canal. This can allow gravity to work with the ear’s natural shape to help the water escape.
Pro Tip: For added effectiveness, try shaking your head gently while performing this step, but avoid vigorous movements to prevent dizziness or falls.
Step 2: The Gravity and Hop Method
What to Do: Using a light hopping motion on one foot, you can combine the power of gravity and movement to help the water flow out.
How to Do It: Stand on the leg corresponding to the ear with trapped water (e.g., your left leg if water is stuck in your left ear). Tilt your head to the side and perform a gentle hop a few times. Keep a hand on a counter or wall if you need help balancing.
Why It Matters: Gravity alone may not always do the job, but the added momentum from the hopping motion can help shake the water loose from the ear canal.
Pro Tip: Avoid hopping too vigorously to prevent injury. And if you’re outdoors or on a slippery surface, make sure to hold onto something sturdy for stability.
Step 3: Use the Vacuum Effect
What to Do: Create a gentle vacuum seal with your palm to draw the water out of your ear.
How to Do It: Place your palm tightly over the ear and press gently, creating a slight suction by pulling your palm away from your ear in quick, gentle motions. This creates a mini-vacuum that can help dislodge the water.
Why It Matters: The suction effect creates negative pressure, which can draw trapped water out.
Pro Tip: To create a better seal, make sure your hands are dry. Press your palm firmly and release it in a controlled manner without too much force.
Step 4: Try the Valsalva Maneuver
What to Do: The Valsalva maneuver helps equalize pressure in your ears and can move any water closer to the ear canal exit.
How to Do It: Pinch your nose closed, close your mouth, and blow gently as if you’re trying to blow your nose. Be careful to apply only mild pressure; overdoing it can cause discomfort or even damage.
Why It Matters: This maneuver opens up your Eustachian tubes and may shift the water so that it’s easier for gravity to do the rest.
Pro Tip: If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop immediately, as too much pressure can be harmful. A gentle puff is all you need for this technique to work.
Step 5: Lie on Your Side with Heat
What to Do: Using warmth can help the water evaporate or loosen it up so that it drains more easily.
How to Do It: Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down. You can place a warm compress or heated towel next to your ear for about 5-10 minutes. This gentle heat can encourage fluid drainage.
Why It Matters: Warmth helps the ear canal expand, creating a clear pathway for the water to escape. It also relaxes the muscles around the ear, which can aid in fluid release.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a heated towel, cup your hands over your ear and take slow, deep breaths to create a bit of warmth.
Step 6: Use Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
What to Do: Over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops designed to remove water can be highly effective.
How to Do It: Carefully follow the instructions on the ear drops. Typically, you’ll need to tilt your head, place a few drops in the affected ear, let them sit for a minute, then tilt your head the other way to drain them.
Why It Matters: These ear drops contain alcohol, which speeds up water evaporation in the ear canal. They’re often formulated with ingredients that can safely dry out excess water.
Pro Tip: Avoid using ear drops if you suspect an infection, have a perforated eardrum, or have an ear tube. Always check with your doctor if you’re uncertain.
Additional Tips
Common Issues and Quick Fixes
- Persistent Water Sensation: If you still feel water after trying the methods above, repeat the steps and gently dry the outer ear with a towel. Sometimes water gets trapped deep in the ear and needs multiple attempts to release.
- Ear Pain or Discomfort: Use a warm compress or lie on your side to relieve pain. If the pain persists, consult a healthcare provider, as it could indicate an infection.
- Muffled Hearing After Water Removal: Try the Valsalva maneuver again, as a mild pressure imbalance could still be lingering.
Best Practices and Essential Tips
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps keep the Eustachian tubes clear and improves fluid drainage.
- Use Earplugs: To prevent water from entering in the first place, consider earplugs when swimming.
- Avoid Q-Tips: While tempting, Q-Tips can push water further into the ear canal and worsen the issue.
- Regular Ear Care: Keeping your ears free from excess wax can make it easier to prevent trapped water.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can water in the ear cause an infection?
Yes, water trapped in the ear for extended periods can lead to infections, commonly known as swimmer’s ear. The moist environment creates a breeding ground for bacteria, making it essential to remove any trapped water as soon as possible.
2. How can I prevent water from getting trapped in my ear?
Using earplugs while swimming or bathing and tilting your head while showering can help keep water from entering your ear canals.
3. Is it safe to use rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to remove water?
Using these substances can be safe if you don’t have any cuts, infections, or a perforated eardrum. Special ear drops designed for drying ears are often safer.
4. What should I do if I feel water in my ear for several days?
If water seems trapped for more than a day or two despite trying these methods, consult a healthcare professional. They may check for earwax buildup or other blockages.
5. Can children use these methods safely?
Most methods are safe for children. However, avoid any pressure-based techniques like the Valsalva maneuver. If you’re unsure, consult a doctor for advice on child-safe options.
Conclusion
Getting water out of your ear may feel frustrating, but with these techniques, you can find relief quickly and safely. From tilting your head to using the vacuum effect or ear drops, each method provides effective, simple ways to avoid the uncomfortable sensation and potential complications from trapped water.
Take Action: Remember these techniques next time you or a loved one feels that telltale clog in your ear. By using these methods, you’ll keep your ears dry, healthy, and infection-free.