That clogged, “underwater” feeling after a swim or a shower is more than just an annoyance; it is a result of surface tension trapping liquid against your eardrum. If left untreated, moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to a painful infection known as Otitis Externa, or “Swimmer’s Ear”.
In this 2026 guide, we explore the safest, fastest methods on how to get water out of your ear without damaging your hearing or pushing debris deeper into the canal.
Quick Answer: The 30-Second Fix
If you need to know how to get water out of your ear quickly, start with these two non-invasive methods:
- The Gravity Tilt: Tilt your head so the affected ear faces the shoulder. Gently tug on your earlobe to straighten the canal and allow gravity to break the surface tension.
- The Palm Vacuum: Cup your hand tightly over your ear to create a seal. Gently push your hand in and out to create a light vacuum that can “pull” the water toward the opening.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Water Out of Your Ears Safely
1. The Jiggle Method
While your head is tilted sideways, shake your head gently from side to side. This physical movement helps dislodge the water droplet from the narrowest part of the ear canal.
2. The Valsalva Maneuver
Close your mouth and pinch your nostrils shut with your fingers. Gently attempt to blow air out of your nose. You may hear a “pop,” which indicates the Eustachian tubes have opened, often helping to regulate pressure and move fluid.
3. The Evaporation Method
If physical movement doesn’t work, you can use heat to encourage evaporation. Set a hair dryer to its lowest, coolest setting and hold it about a foot away from your ear. Move it back and forth to provide a gentle breeze. If you find yourself using a hair dryer frequently after a daily swim, you might start to wonder why is my electric bill so high, as small appliances used daily can add up over time.
Specialized Care: After Swimming and Showers
Knowing how to get water out of your ear after swimming is particularly important because pool water often contains chlorine or bacteria from open water sources.
- Drying Drops: Over-the-counter eardrops made of isopropyl alcohol can help evaporate remaining moisture and kill bacteria.
- Home Solution: A mixture of half white vinegar and half rubbing alcohol can be used (one or two drops) to maintain a healthy pH balance in the ear.
- Warning: Never use drops if you suspect you have a perforated eardrum or ear tubes.
Staying on top of minor health issues like ear care is a perfect way to practice self-care during National Wellness Month, ensuring small irritations don’t turn into major medical hurdles.
The Golden Rule: What NOT to Do
The most common mistake people make is reaching for a cotton swab (Q-tip).
- Do Not Use Swabs: These can push earwax and trapped water further against the eardrum, making the problem worse.
- Avoid Sharp Objects: Never use hairpins, keys, or fingernails to “dig” for water, as this can easily scratch the delicate skin of the ear canal.
How to Get Fluid Out of Ear: Water vs. Infection
Sometimes the feeling of “fullness” isn’t water at all. If you have tried the methods above and still feel a blockage, you may be dealing with middle ear fluid.
- Water: Feels like it is moving when you shake your head; usually happens immediately after getting wet.
- Fluid/Infection: Usually feels “deep” and does not move with gravity. It may be accompanied by pain, muffled hearing, or a fever.
If your ear remains blocked for more than 24 hours, or if you experience significant pain, consult a healthcare professional immediately to rule out an infection.
