How to Get Water Out of Your Ears: 11 Easy Tips

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 15, 2024

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Anyone who spends time in the water knows how frustrating it can be to get water stuck in your ear. Whether you’re swimming, taking a shower, or just splashing around, having water lodged in your ear can be uncomfortable and even lead to complications like infections or hearing issues. Thankfully, it’s not too difficult to remove water from your ear. Here are ten easy tips to help you find relief fast.

Use Gravity: Let Nature Do the Work

One of the simplest and most effective ways to get water out of your ear is to rely on gravity. By tilting your head sideways and holding the affected ear parallel to the ground, you can encourage the water to drain naturally. To boost the effect, place your palm over the ear and gently press to create a vacuum. This light suction can help pull the trapped water out. It's one of the first methods many people try, and it works well for most situations.

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Try the Valsalva Maneuver: Pop Your Ears and Clear the Water

If you've ever gone diving or flown on an airplane, you may be familiar with the Valsalva maneuver. Not only can it help equalize the pressure in your ears, but it can also clear trapped water. To do this, pinch your nostrils shut and close your mouth. Take a deep breath and then gently blow out through your nose. This helps "pop" your ears and can push the water out in the process. Just make sure to blow gently to avoid damaging your eardrums.

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Use a Blow Dryer: Dry Out the Moisture

Most people have a blow dryer at home, and it can be a useful tool for getting rid of excess water in your ear. Set your dryer to the lowest heat setting and hold it a safe distance from your ear. Aim the warm air toward your ear opening, making sure to avoid overheating. The gentle flow of air can help evaporate the moisture inside, providing relief in just a few minutes. Just keep the dryer at a safe distance to prevent irritation or burns.

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Rubbing Alcohol and Vinegar: A Classic Home Remedy

For decades, a mixture of rubbing alcohol and vinegar has been a go-to remedy for getting water out of ears. The alcohol helps evaporate the trapped water, while vinegar can fight off any bacteria that may cause infections. To use this method, mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and vinegar, and use a dropper to place a few drops into the affected ear. Let it sit for about 30 seconds, then tilt your head to drain it out. It’s an easy, effective solution that’s been used for generations.

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Heat Therapy: Warm Up for Quick Relief

Applying heat to the ear can help relax the Eustachian tubes and allow trapped water to escape. Use a warm compress or heat up a clean cloth and hold it over the affected ear for a few minutes. The warmth helps to loosen any water that might be stuck deeper inside. Just make sure the heat isn’t too intense—moderation is key. Once you've applied the heat, tilt your head to let the water drain.

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Steam: Soften and Release the Water

Steam is another heat-based method that works wonders for dislodging water from the ear. The steam helps open up the Eustachian tubes and makes it easier for the water to flow out. To use this method, pour hot water into a bowl and lean over it, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam. Inhale the steam for about 10 minutes, then tilt your head to the side to allow the water to drain. It’s a gentle yet effective way to relieve ear discomfort.

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Hydrogen Peroxide: Effervescent Action for Water Removal

Hydrogen peroxide is known for its cleaning properties, but it can also help get rid of water in your ear. Its bubbling action helps dislodge trapped moisture, along with any wax or debris. Make sure to use a diluted 3% solution. Place a few drops into the ear, let it bubble for a minute or two, and then tilt your head to allow the fluid to drain. Hydrogen peroxide not only clears water but also helps keep your ear canal clean.

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Salt: Natural Absorption for Stubborn Water

Salt is well-known for its moisture-absorbing properties, and it can work wonders for water stuck in your ear. Heat up some salt in the microwave, place it in a clean cloth, and hold it against your ear for a few minutes. The heat will encourage water evaporation, and the salt will help draw out the moisture. Afterward, you can wash your ear to remove any residue. It’s a simple but effective remedy.

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Garlic: A Surprising Ally for Ear Health

Garlic is more than just a flavorful addition to your meals—it’s also believed to have drying and antibacterial properties that can help with water removal. Crush a couple of garlic cloves and extract the juice. Dilute the juice with a little water and place a few drops into your ear. Let it sit for about three minutes before draining. Garlic not only helps dry out the water but can also prevent infections due to its natural antibacterial properties.

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Olive Oil: A Gentle Lubricant for Easy Drainage

It may sound counterintuitive to put oil in your ear to remove water, but olive oil is a tried-and-true method for dislodging trapped moisture. Warm a small amount of olive oil and place a few drops into your ear. Let it sit for a few minutes to lubricate the ear canal, then tilt your head to let the water flow out. Olive oil’s natural antiseptic qualities also help prevent bacterial growth. It’s a safe and gentle way to get relief from waterlogged ears.

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When to See a Doctor

While most of the time, these home remedies can provide quick relief, there are cases when trapped water might lead to more serious issues. If you experience pain, hearing loss, or signs of infection, it’s best to consult a doctor. They can safely remove any blockages and provide further treatment if needed.

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