Effective Methods To Get Water Out Of Your Ear After Swimming

Swimming is a refreshing way to stay active, but it often comes with an annoying side effect: trapped water in the ear. That muffled sensation, slight pressure, or tickling feeling can linger long after you’ve left the pool or ocean. While usually harmless, water that remains lodged in the ear canal can create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to swimmer’s ear—an uncomfortable outer ear infection. Knowing how to safely and effectively remove water from your ear is essential for swimmers, divers, and anyone who spends time in the water. This guide outlines practical, science-supported techniques to restore comfort and protect your hearing health.

Why Water Gets Trapped in the Ear

The human ear canal is not completely straight; it curves slightly inward, which can make it difficult for water to drain naturally. After swimming, moisture may cling to the skin lining the canal due to surface tension. The ear's natural wax also plays a role—it can repel water at first, but once water breaches the wax layer, it may become trapped behind it. Additionally, narrow ear canals, excessive hair, or wearing tight-fitting swim caps or headphones can increase the likelihood of water retention.

When water stays in the ear, it softens the skin, making it more vulnerable to bacterial or fungal infections. Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) affects nearly 2.4 million people in the U.S. annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Recognizing early signs—like fullness, itching, or mild pain—is key to preventing complications.

Tip: Tilt your head and gently tug on the earlobe after swimming to encourage immediate drainage.

Safe and Effective Methods to Remove Water from the Ear

Most cases of trapped water resolve on their own within minutes or hours. However, if the sensation persists, several proven techniques can help. The goal is to dislodge the water without damaging the delicate structures of the ear.

1. Gravity-Assisted Draining

This is the simplest and safest method. Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down. Stay in this position for several minutes to allow gravity to pull the water out. For better results, gently pull the outer ear backward and upward—this straightens the ear canal in adults—and wait patiently.

2. The Chew and Yawn Technique

Moving the jaw helps shift the eustachian tubes and can create subtle pressure changes in the ear. Chewing gum, yawning widely, or swallowing repeatedly can loosen trapped water by altering the dynamics inside the middle ear space.

3. Create a Vacuum with Your Palm

Cup your hand tightly over the affected ear and press firmly. Then, quickly slide your hand backward, creating a suction effect. Repeat this motion several times. The change in pressure may help draw the water out. This method works best when combined with tilting your head sideways.

4. Use Warm Air

A hairdryer on the lowest heat and speed setting can help evaporate trapped moisture. Hold it at least 30 cm (12 inches) away from the ear and move it slowly back and forth. Never use high heat or hold the dryer too close—this can burn the skin or damage sensitive tissue.

5. Alcohol and Vinegar Eardrops (with Caution)

A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol can help dry out the ear and prevent bacterial growth. The vinegar’s acidity inhibits microbes, while the alcohol promotes evaporation. Use a dropper to place 1–2 mL into the ear, let it sit for 30 seconds, then tilt your head to drain. Do not use this method if you have ear tubes, a perforated eardrum, or active ear pain.

“Using a vinegar-alcohol solution after swimming can reduce the risk of swimmer’s ear by disrupting microbial colonization before infection takes hold.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Otolaryngologist

Step-by-Step Guide: Removing Water from Your Ear at Home

If water remains in your ear for more than a few hours, follow this structured approach:

1. Stop swimming or showering immediately. Avoid further water exposure.
2. Tilt your head sideways. Position the affected ear downward.
3. Gently tug on the earlobe. Pull upward and backward to straighten the canal.
4. Apply light heat. Use a hairdryer on low, held at a safe distance, for up to one minute.
5. Try the palm vacuum technique. Press and release your cupped hand over the ear several times.
6. Chew or yawn. Activate jaw movement to shift internal pressure.
7. Use drying drops (if appropriate). Apply alcohol-vinegar solution only if no contraindications exist.
8. Wait and reassess. If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, consult a healthcare provider.

Tip: Dry your ears thoroughly after every swim—even if you don’t feel water trapped.

What Not to Do: Common Mistakes

Many people instinctively reach for cotton swabs or other objects to “clean” their ears when water is present. This is strongly discouraged. Inserting anything into the ear canal risks pushing debris deeper, scratching the skin, or rupturing the eardrum. The ear is self-cleaning, and foreign objects disrupt its natural defenses.

Other unsafe practices include using ear candles (which lack scientific support and pose burn risks) or applying undiluted substances like pure alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can irritate already-sensitive skin.

Action	Safe?	Risk Level	Notes
Tilting head to drain water	Yes	Low	Most effective when done immediately after swimming.
Using cotton swabs	No	High	Can push water deeper and damage ear canal.
Applying warm air	Yes	Low	Use low heat and keep distance.
Inserting fingers or tools	No	High	May cause micro-abrasions leading to infection.
Using alcohol-vinegar drops	Conditional	Medium	Only if no ear injury or tubes present.

Prevention: How to Keep Water Out of Your Ears

Preventing water from entering the ear canal in the first place is the most effective strategy. Swimmers and frequent water enthusiasts should consider proactive measures.

• Wear silicone earplugs. These form a waterproof seal and are reusable. Moldable putty-style plugs conform well to individual ear shapes.
• Use a swim cap that covers the ears. Latex or silicone caps provide extra protection, especially when combined with earplugs.
• Dry ears immediately after swimming. Use a towel to gently dry the outer ear. Tilt your head to assist drainage.
• Use preventive eardrops. Some swimmers apply a few drops of rubbing alcohol before swimming to repel water. Others use commercial drying solutions post-swim.
• Avoid polluted water. Contaminated pools or lakes increase infection risk even with small amounts of trapped moisture.

Mini Case Study: Competitive Swimmer Manages Chronic Ear Issues

Sarah, a 28-year-old competitive swimmer, began experiencing recurring ear fullness and mild pain after training sessions. Initially dismissing it as normal, she eventually developed swimmer’s ear twice in one summer. Her ENT recommended a strict prevention protocol: custom-molded earplugs during practice, immediate post-swim drying with a hairdryer on cool setting, and daily use of a vinegar-based drying solution. Within three weeks, her symptoms resolved, and she remained infection-free for over a year. “I didn’t realize how much damage repeated moisture was doing,” Sarah said. “Now I treat ear care like part of my training routine.”

When to See a Doctor

Most cases of trapped water clear up within 24 to 48 hours. However, certain symptoms indicate a need for medical evaluation:

• Persistent pain or increasing discomfort
• Discharge from the ear (yellow, green, or bloody)
• Signs of infection: redness, swelling, fever
• Hearing loss that doesn’t improve
• Dizziness or ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

If you suspect an ear infection, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotic eardrops or oral medication. They can also examine the ear canal to rule out blockages, such as excess wax or a perforated eardrum, which require specialized treatment.

FAQ

Can water stuck in the ear cause permanent damage?

Occasional trapped water is unlikely to cause lasting harm. However, repeated episodes that lead to chronic swimmer’s ear can result in thickened skin, narrowing of the ear canal, or temporary hearing loss. In rare cases, untreated infections may spread to surrounding tissues.

Is it safe to use hydrogen peroxide to remove water?

Hydrogen peroxide is not recommended for removing water. It can irritate the skin of the ear canal and may worsen inflammation. While sometimes used to soften earwax, it should never be used routinely or in the presence of pain or discharge.

How long does it usually take for water to leave the ear?

In most cases, water drains naturally within minutes to a few hours. If it persists beyond 24–48 hours or is accompanied by pain, medical advice should be sought.

Checklist: What to Do When Water Is Stuck in Your Ear

• ✅ Tilt your head to the side and wait for gravity to drain the water
• ✅ Gently tug on the earlobe to straighten the canal
• ✅ Chew, yawn, or swallow to shift ear pressure
• ✅ Use a hairdryer on low heat from a safe distance
• ✅ Try the palm vacuum method
• ✅ Apply alcohol-vinegar drops (only if no ear issues)
• ❌ Avoid cotton swabs, fingers, or sharp objects
• ❌ Don’t ignore pain or worsening symptoms
• ✅ Seek medical help if symptoms last more than two days

Conclusion

Water in the ear after swimming is common, but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or risky. By understanding how water becomes trapped and applying safe, evidence-based removal techniques, you can restore comfort quickly and prevent infections. Prevention is equally important—using earplugs, drying your ears properly, and avoiding unsafe cleaning habits go a long way in protecting your hearing health. Whether you're a casual swimmer or a dedicated athlete, taking a few extra moments to care for your ears can make all the difference.

💬 Have a method that works for you? Share your experience in the comments and help others enjoy the water without the post-swim hassle.