Effective Techniques to Safely Remove Water from Your Ears

Unwanted water lodged in your ears can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful if not addressed promptly. The warm, moist environment can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially leading to ear infections. Thankfully, there are numerous simple techniques you can try at home to safely remove water from your ears.

Your ears naturally produce wax as a protective measure, keeping external pollutants from entering. This wax lining can sometimes be bypassed during activities such as swimming, leading to water getting trapped inside. Here are six methods you can use to safely remove water from your ears:

Tilt Your Head

The simplest way to remove water from your ears is by using gravity. Tilt your head to the side, allowing the trapped water to flow out. To aid this process, gently shake your earlobe while your head is tilted.

Gravity Assisted Drying

Another method leveraging gravity involves lying on your side with a towel underneath your ear. Allow a few moments for the water to naturally drain out. Then, using a cotton swab, carefully absorb any remaining water from your ear.

Use Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide, typically used to clean wounds, can also be used to dislodge earwax and trapped water. Using a 3% solution and an ear dropper, insert two drops of hydrogen peroxide into your ear. You’ll hear a bubbling sound indicating the solution is at work. After about 10 minutes, tilt your head to drain the liquid. Remember not to use hydrogen peroxide excessively, as it could potentially harm your eardrums.

Employ a Blow Dryer

A blow dryer can be a useful tool to evaporate trapped water in your ear. Following these steps ensures safe and effective use:

• Set the blow dryer to its lowest temperature or use the cool setting.
• Hold the blow dryer about a foot away from your ear to avoid overheating.
• Aim the warm air directly into your ear, gently pulling your earlobe to allow better airflow.
• Move the blow dryer in a back-and-forth motion until you feel the water beginning to drain.

Remember, always ensure the dryer is not too hot and is kept at a safe distance to prevent burns.

Create a Vacuum

This method involves creating a vacuum to draw the water out. By cupping your hand over your ear and quickly flattening and cupping it again, you create a vacuum that can pull the water out. If you choose to use a finger, ensure it’s clean and your nails are short to avoid scratching the ear canal, which can lead to infections.

Perform the Valsalva Maneuver

The Valsalva Maneuver can clear up congestion due to ear wax build-up, or trapped water in your ears. Here’s how:

• Close your mouth and pinch your nostrils shut.
• Take a deep breath and gently exhale through your nose.
• If you hear a slight popping sound, it means your Eustachian tubes have opened, and the water can be drained.

Remember, don’t blow out through your nose too forcefully as it can damage your eardrum.

These simple methods can provide relief from discomfort due to water trapped in your ears. However, if water remains lodged in your ears for an extended period, or if you experience pain, it’s recommended that you seek professional medical help.