Tilt your head toward the affected ear and gently pull the earlobe in different directions
Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down
Gently shake your head to help the water drain out
Create a vacuum by cupping your palm tightly over the ear and pressing gently
Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat and lowest speed, held at a safe distance from the ear
Yawn, chew, or swallow to help open the Eustachian tube
Try the Valsalva maneuver gently by pinching your nose and blowing softly with your mouth closed
Use over-the-counter drying ear drops if you do not have a perforated eardrum or ear infection
Dry only the outer ear with a clean towel
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Seek medical care if pain, discharge, hearing loss, dizziness, or persistent water remains in the ear
