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how to get water out of ear

If you have water trapped in your ear, there are several safe and effective methods to remove it and prevent potential infections like swimmer’s ear (otitis externa). Here are some steps and tips to help you get water out of your ear:

Safe Methods to Remove Water

Tilt and Pull

Tip your head to one side and gently pull on your earlobe to straighten the ear canal and help the water drain out. You can also shake your head from side to side while in this position1 3 5.

Use Gravity

Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down for a few minutes. This can help the water drain out naturally3 5.

Create a Vacuum

Tilt your head sideways and rest your ear onto your cupped palm, creating a tight seal. Gently push your hand back and forth toward your ear in a rapid motion to create a vacuum. Then, tilt your head down to allow the water to drain3.

Blow Dryer

Use a blow dryer on the lowest setting, holding it at least a foot away from your ear. Move the blow dryer in a back-and-forth motion while tugging down on your earlobe to help evaporate the water1 3 5.

Eardrops

Use over-the-counter drying drops or make your own by mixing 1 part white vinegar with 1 part rubbing alcohol. Pour 1 teaspoon of the solution into each ear, tilt your head, and let it drain out. However, avoid using these if you have ear tubes or a ruptured eardrum1 4 5.

Additional Water Technique

Fill the affected ear with water using a clean dropper, wait 5 seconds, and then turn over with the affected ear facing down. This can help the water drain out3.

Yawning and Chewing

Moving your jaw by yawning or chewing gum can help dislodge the water while tipping your head to one side2 5.

Warm Steam

Inhale warm steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water covered with a towel to help release the water from your ear3.

What Not to Do

Avoid Cotton Swabs: Do not use cotton swabs (Q-tips) as they can push earwax deeper into the ear, remove protective wax, disrupt natural bacteria, or irritate the ear canal1 3 5.
No Fingers or Fingernails: Refrain from sticking your fingers or fingernails into your ears, as this can scratch the delicate skin of the ear canal1 3 5.
No Hydrogen Peroxide with Certain Conditions: Do not use hydrogen peroxide or drying drops if you have ear tubes or a ruptured eardrum1 3 5.

Preventing Water from Getting Stuck

Use earplugs or a swim cap when swimming.
Dry the outer ear thoroughly with a towel after exposure to water.
Use petroleum jelly-coated cotton balls in your outer ears during baths or when using hair products.
Remove earbuds if you are sweaty to prevent sweat from trapping in your ears1 3 4.

If you experience symptoms such as itching, redness, discomfort, or clear fluid drainage after trying these methods, it may indicate an infection, and you should consult a doctor1 3 5.