Tilt your head to the side and gently pull the earlobe in different directions
Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down
Hop or shake your head gently while keeping the ear pointed downward
Create a vacuum by placing your palm over the ear and pressing gently, then release
Use gravity by bending at the waist with the ear facing down
Chew, yawn, or move your jaw to help open the ear canal
Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat and speed, held at a safe distance
Use over-the-counter drying ear drops if you do not have a perforated eardrum or ear infection
Dry the outer ear with a clean towel
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Seek medical help if pain, hearing loss, dizziness, drainage, or trapped water lasts more than 24 to 48 hours