Tilt your head so the affected ear faces downward
Gently tug on your earlobe while tilting your head
Lie on your side with the affected ear down for a few minutes
Open and close your jaw or chew to help the water drain
Create a gentle vacuum by placing your palm over the ear and pressing lightly
Use gravity by hopping lightly on one foot with the affected ear tilted downward
Dry the outer ear with a clean towel
Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat and lowest speed setting, held at a safe distance
Try over-the-counter drying ear drops if you do not have a perforated eardrum or ear infection
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Seek medical care if pain, discharge, hearing loss, dizziness, or persistent blockage occurs
