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
Hop or shake your head gently while keeping the ear pointed downward
Create a vacuum by cupping your palm tightly over the ear and pressing gently
Use gravity by bending forward and letting the water drain out
Yawn, chew, or swallow to help open the Eustachian tube
Try the Valsalva maneuver gently by pinching your nose, closing your mouth, and blowing softly
Use a warm compress against the ear for a few minutes
Dry the outer ear with a towel
Use a hair dryer on the lowest setting, held at a safe distance
Use over-the-counter drying ear drops if appropriate
Avoid inserting cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into the ear
Seek medical care if pain, drainage, hearing loss, dizziness, or persistent blockage occurs