Getting water stuck in your ears can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience. Whether it happens after swimming, showering, or even washing your hair, water trapped in the ear canal can lead to irritation, muffled hearing, and even infections if not dealt with properly.
If you’re wondering how to get water out of your ear safely and effectively, you’re not alone. This guide will explain how to get water out of your ear using simple, safe methods.
Why Water Gets Trapped in Your Ear
Water can become trapped in the ear canal due to its structure. Sometimes, wax buildup, narrow ear canals, or even the angle of your head can prevent water from draining naturally. If water in ears is left untreated, it can create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, potentially leading to an ear infection known as swimmer’s ear.
Symptoms of Water Trapped in the Ear
Common signs that you have water in your ear include:
- A sensation of fullness or pressure
- Muffled hearing
- Tickling sensation deep in the ear canal
- Discomfort or slight pain
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to know the best way to get water out of your ear safely.
How do you get water out of ears?
There are several techniques you can try at home to clear water from the ear without causing damage. Here’s what to do if you get water in your ears:
- Tilt and shake
One of the simplest methods is to tilt your head to the side, pulling gently on the earlobe. Jumping or shaking your head lightly can help dislodge the water. Gravity often does the work once the ear canal is properly aligned.
- Lie down on a towel
Another effective method is to lie on your side with the affected ear facing downward on a clean towel. Stay in this position for several minutes to allow gravity to assist in draining the water.
- Use a hair dryer (on the cool setting)
Set your hair dryer on the lowest heat and speed settings. Hold it at least 30cm (around 12 inches) away from your ear and gently pull your earlobe down and back while aiming the dryer towards the ear. The warm air can help evaporate the trapped water. Always be careful not to use a high heat setting to avoid burns or further irritation.
- Use Aqua Ear
Use a product specifically designed to help remove water from the ear canal, such as Aqua Ear. This alcohol based ear drop helps evaporate water and dry out the ear canal. Make sure to read the packaging and follow the specific instructions.
What not to do
While it may be tempting to use cotton buds, fingers, or other objects to remove water in your ear canal, doing so can push the water deeper or damage the delicate structures of the ear. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal — it’s not worth the risk.
When to seek help
If water in ears remains trapped for more than 24–48 hours, or if you experience pain, discharge, or significant hearing loss, it’s important to seek professional help. Persistent water trapped in the ear can lead to infection or other complications.
At Earworx, we specialise in safe and effective ear care. If home methods don’t work, or if you’re prone to wax build-up which can trap water more easily, our trained nurses can help clear your ears using gentle microsuction — a method safer and gentler than traditional syringing.
In summary: The best way to get water out of ears
If you’re wondering how to clear water from ear safely:
- Start with tilting and gravity-based methods
- Lie on your side and move your earlobe around
- Use a cool hair dryer to help evaporate the water
- Use specific products such as Aqua Ear to help dry out the ear canal
- Avoid putting anything inside your ear
- See a professional if symptoms persist
Don’t let water in your ear lead to discomfort or infection. Follow these simple steps to safely dry your ears — and if you’re still having trouble, book an appointment with Earworx for expert care.
Need help with stubborn water in your ear canal or wax build-up?
Find your nearest clinic and book an appointment today for gentle, professional ear cleaning.
