How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear | Keep Your Ears Dry

Swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear canal, is a common nuisance for people who spend time in the water. The good news is that prevention is straightforward. The entire strategy revolves around one core idea: keep the ear canal as dry as possible and don’t irritate it. Before you even worry about using drops or plugs, simple habits like tilting your head to drain water after a swim and gently drying your outer ear go a long way.

The steps are easy to remember and require little to no equipment. For most people, a few common-sense habits after a swim are all the protection you need. For others, the right gear and preventive drops are worth considering.

What Are the Best Habits to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear?

Your daily routine holds the key to prevention. The most effective approach is to make the following steps a regular part of your swimming and showering routine.

• After swimming or showering, tilt your head from side to side so each ear faces the ground. This allows trapped water to drain out naturally.
• Dry the outside of your ear gently with a towel. Stick the corner of the towel just inside the opening to catch drips, but never push it deep inside.
• If you feel water still trapped inside, use a hair dryer on the lowest heat and speed setting. Hold it at least a foot away from your head and wave it back and forth.
• Avoid putting anything in your ear canal. This includes cotton-tip swabs, pencils, paperclips, and keys. The skin in the ear canal is delicate, and scratching it creates an entry point for bacteria.

These habits are simple but powerful. The act of draining, drying, and not poking your ears can prevent the problem entirely. It’s a small investment of time that pays off with comfort and avoids a painful ear infection.

Does Ear Protection Gear Make a Difference?

Yes. Using the right gear creates a physical barrier that keeps water out, and it’s a highly effective strategy for frequent swimmers. The key is to use gear designed specifically for keeping water out, not just any earplug.

Bathing caps that cover the ears and specially designed water-blocking earplugs are both supported by medical experts. These are valuable tools for anyone who swims often. However, you should not rely on ordinary earplugs; they are not made for water and can trap moisture against the ear canal, which actually increases your risk of infection. If you’re considering investing in proper protection, this roundup of ear protection for swimming covers your options.

Swim molds, which are custom-fitted by a professional, are another available option for serious swimmers. No matter which type you choose, the goal is the same: create a seal that stops the water from ever entering the canal.

Are Preventive Ear Drops a Good Idea?

For some people, yes.

Let the mixture sit for a moment, then tilt your head to let it drain back out.

You must skip these drops if you have any of the following:

• Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) installed
• A punctured or perforated eardrum
• Signs of an active swimmer’s ear infection
• Any current ear drainage
• A recent history of ear surgery or infection

If any of these conditions apply to you, talk to a doctor before using any home drops or swimming at all.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Prevention is your best tool, but it’s not a substitute for medical care when you have symptoms. If you experience ear pain, drainage, or swelling, it’s time to see a healthcare professional. These symptoms can indicate an infection that needs treatment.

They can help you determine the safest approach for your situation.