How to Get Water Out of Your Ear Safely

Water in the ear often clears on its own, but a blocked sensation can be annoying. Start gently: tilt the affected ear downward, pull the outer ear lightly, and give gravity time to work.

Do not insert cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects into the canal. They can scratch the skin, compact wax, or create a pathway for infection.

If water stays trapped, you have pain, drainage, fever, swelling, hearing loss, tubes, a known eardrum perforation, or a history of ear surgery, contact a medical professional for advice rather than using drops or home remedies.

Frequent swimmers and people who wear hearing aids may benefit from an ear inspection if the blocked sensation keeps returning. Wax or skin irritation can make water feel trapped more easily.