How to Get Water Out of Ear: Safe and Effective Remedies
Learn how to get water out of your ear safely with home remedies and medical tips. Prevent swimmer’s ear, infections, and clogged ear problems.
Introduction
Almost everyone has experienced the uncomfortable feeling of water trapped in the ear after a swim, shower, or bath. That irritating sensation of muffled hearing, fullness, and occasional tickling inside your ear can be both annoying and worrisome. If left untreated, water in the ear can even lead to infections such as swimmer’s ear.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to get water out of your ear fast, safe home remedies, when to seek medical attention, and tips for prevention. Whether you’re a swimmer, shower enthusiast, or just unlucky enough to have water slip into your ear canal, this article has you covered.
Why Does Water Get Stuck in the Ear?
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand why water stays trapped in the ear canal.
- Narrow ear canals – Some people naturally have smaller or curvy canals that trap liquid easily.
- Excess earwax – Wax can form a barrier, making it harder for water to escape.
- Swelling or inflammation – Previous irritation can create blockages.
- Surface tension of water – Sometimes, the water simply “clings” to the ear canal walls.
This is why simple tricks like tilting your head work for some people but not others.
Symptoms of Water in the Ear
If you’re unsure whether you still have water trapped inside, look for these common symptoms:
- A full or clogged feeling in the ear
- Muffled hearing (sounds feel distant)
- A slight tickling sensation inside the ear canal
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Sloshing sounds when moving your head
If water remains inside for too long, it can cause irritation or infection. That’s why knowing how to remove water from the ear safely is important.
How to Get Water Out of Your Ear: Quick Home Remedies
1. Gravity & Head Tilting
One of the simplest methods is to let gravity do the work.
Steps:
- Tilt your head to the side.
- Gently pull your earlobe in different directions to straighten the ear canal.
- Hop on one leg or shake your head to encourage water to drain.
This is usually the first and easiest method to try.
2. The Valsalva Maneuver (Yawning or Blowing Technique)
This helps to equalize ear pressure and push trapped water out.
Steps:
- Pinch your nose shut.
- Close your mouth.
- Gently exhale as if you are blowing your nose.
Do this very gently—too much pressure can damage the eardrum.
3. Use a Hair Dryer (Warm Air Method)
A safe and effective trick is to use warm air to evaporate the water.
Steps:
- Set your hair dryer to the lowest heat and fan speed.
- Hold it at least 12 inches away from your ear.
- Gently pull your earlobe and let the warm air circulate.
This method works best if you’ve just come out of the pool or shower.
4. Alcohol and Vinegar Drops
A mixture of rubbing alcohol and vinegar is a time-tested remedy.
- Alcohol helps the water evaporate quickly.
- Vinegar prevents bacterial growth.
Steps:
- Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and vinegar.
- Use a clean dropper to put 3–4 drops into the affected ear.
- Let it sit for 30 seconds, then tilt your head to drain.
Do not use this method if you have ear tubes, perforated eardrum, or ear surgery history.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Drops
Hydrogen peroxide not only removes water but also loosens earwax that may be trapping it.
Steps:
- Use a dropper to place 3–4 drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide into the ear.
- Wait until the fizzing stops.
- Tilt your head to let it drain out.
6. Chewing or Yawning Movements
Jaw movements can help shift water in the ear canal.
- Try chewing gum.
- Do big yawns to move muscles around the ear canal.
This works well when water is stuck near the eustachian tube.
7. The Vacuum Hand Trick
This creates a gentle suction effect.
Steps:
- Place your palm tightly over your ear.
- Tilt your head sideways.
- Gently press and release your palm quickly (like a suction cup).
This can help pull the water out.
What NOT to Do if Water is Stuck in Your Ear
Some methods may seem tempting but can actually be dangerous. Avoid:
- Inserting cotton swabs (pushes water deeper and may damage the ear canal)
- Using sharp objects (like pins, keys, or clips—risk of eardrum injury)
- Pouring random liquids (perfume, oil, or other household liquids)
Always stick to safe remedies.
How to Get Rid of Water in Ear After Swimming
Swimmers often deal with recurring ear water problems. Here’s how to prevent it:
- Use swim ear drops (available at pharmacies).
- Tilt your head after every swim.
- Wear earplugs or swim caps.
- Dry ears with a towel and hair dryer.
These simple habits can help you avoid swimmer’s ear (infection caused by trapped water).
Can Water in the Ear Cause Infection?
Yes. If water remains trapped, it can lead to otitis externa (commonly called swimmer’s ear).
Signs of Infection:
- Increasing ear pain
- Itchiness inside the ear
- Redness or swelling of the canal
- Discharge or pus
- Hearing loss
If you notice these symptoms, see a doctor immediately.
When to See a Doctor
Home remedies usually work, but seek medical help if:
- Water remains trapped for more than 24–48 hours.
- You experience severe pain or hearing loss.
- There is discharge, blood, or pus from the ear.
- You have a history of ear surgery or perforated eardrum.
Doctors may use ear irrigation, suction, or prescription drops to safely remove water and treat infections.
How to Prevent Water from Getting Stuck in the Ear
Prevention is always better than cure. Follow these tips:
- Wear earplugs while swimming or showering.
- Dry ears thoroughly with a towel after bathing.
- Use ear-drying drops if you swim frequently.
- Avoid inserting objects that push wax deeper.
By taking precautions, you’ll reduce the risk of water-related ear problems.
FAQs About Water in the Ear
Q1. How long can water stay in your ear?
Usually, water drains out within a few minutes to hours. If it stays for more than 2 days, consult a doctor.
Q2. Can sleeping help get water out of your ear?
Yes, lying on your side with the affected ear facing downward can help gravity drain the water overnight.
Q3. Can a hair dryer damage your ear?
Not if used correctly always keep it on low heat and at least 12 inches away.
Q4. How do doctors remove water from ears?
They may use suction devices, irrigation, or ear drops to clear trapped fluid.
Q5. Is water in the ear dangerous for kids?
Not always, but children are more prone to infections. Use safe remedies and consult a pediatrician if symptoms persist.
Conclusion
Having water trapped in your ear can be frustrating, but the good news is that there are many safe and effective remedies to try at home. From head tilting and hair dryers to hydrogen peroxide drops, most methods work quickly. However, if you develop pain, swelling, or persistent water retention, it’s best to see a doctor.
By following the tips above and taking preventive measures like using earplugs and drying drops, you can keep your ears safe and avoid swimmer’s ear or infections.
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