How to get water out of your ears

Marta Silva | Published 28 June 2023 | Updated 01 June 2026 | 4 mins read

A swimming pool with handles leading down to it.

If you need to know how to get water out of your ears, you are not alone. It is a common problem after swimming, showering, or spending time in the water. Most of the time it clears on its own, but when water becomes trapped, it can leave your ears feeling blocked or uncomfortable.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple, safe ways to remove water from your ear, along with what to avoid and when to seek support. Protecting your ears is just as important as caring for the rest of your health, especially during water activities. You can also explore our hearing protection options for added peace of mind.

What are the risks of water trapped in the ear?

Water in the ear is usually harmless, and in most cases it clears on its own. However, if it remains trapped, it can sometimes cause temporary discomfort or irritation. Occasionally, prolonged moisture in the ear may increase the risk of an infection known as swimmer’s ear.

If symptoms do not settle, you may notice:

Irritation or inflammation in the ear canal
Pain or discomfort
An infection that may require treatment

If you regularly experience this, it is worth learning how to prevent it. You can read more in our guide to preventing swimmer’s ear.

Signs of trapped water in the ear

It is not always immediately obvious, but there are a few signs to look out for. You may notice:

Itchiness
Pain or pressure in the ear
Temporary hearing loss or muffled sounds
Nausea
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)

If symptoms continue, worsen or feel unusual, it is a good idea to seek advice from a pharmacist, GP or other healthcare professional. They can help identify the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment if needed.

How to get trapped water out of your ear

If water does not drain naturally, there are a few gentle methods you can try.

Move your earlobe

Tilt your head to one side and gently pull or wiggle your earlobe. This can help open the ear canal and allow the water to escape.

Let gravity work for you

Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down. Staying in this position for a few minutes can allow gravity to help the water drain out.

Create a vacuum

Tilt your head to the side and place the palm of your hand over your ear. Gently press and release to create a light suction effect, which may help draw the water out.

Apply a warm compress

Hold a warm (not hot) cloth against your ear for a few minutes, then tilt your head. This can help relax the ear canal and encourage drainage.

Try ear drops or sprays

Over-the-counter ear drops can help dry out trapped water. However, do not use them if you have ear pain, discharge from the ear, a known perforated eardrum, or if you suspect an ear infection, unless you have been advised to do so by a healthcare professional.

Don’ts for getting water out of the ear

It can be tempting to try quick fixes, but some methods can do more harm than good.

Avoid:

Putting objects, such as cotton buds, into your ear canal
Using your fingers or fingernails
Holding hairdryers or fans too close on a high setting

These can push water further into the ear, damage the ear canal, or introduce bacteria.

How to prevent getting water in your ear

A few simple habits can help reduce the chances of water becoming trapped.

Wear a swimming cap when in the water
Use specialised earplugs designed for swimming or water sports
Dry the outside of your ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
Gently shake your head from side to side after being in water
Avoid wearing earbuds or headphones for long periods when sweating

Taking these small steps can help protect your ears and prevent discomfort.

When to seek help

If your symptoms last longer than three days, or you are experiencing severe pain, fever, swelling or discharge from the ear, you should seek medical advice promptly. Without appropriate treatment, symptoms may become more uncomfortable or take longer to resolve. However, when assessed by a healthcare professional, ear infections often improve within 7–10 days with appropriate treatment.

If your symptoms have settled but you still have concerns about your hearing, you may find our guide to temporary vs permanent hearing loss helpful. You can also book an appointment with an audiologist for a professional hearing test and personalised advice.

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