Blocked Ears After Diving? How Divers Can Clear Blocked Ears Safely
- Cuddlefish Divers
- Mar 5, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 7
If you’re a diver, chances are you’ve surfaced from a dive with that annoying, muffled sensation known as blocked ears. Blocked ears after diving are extremely common—especially among new divers, repetitive divers, or anyone spending long days in the water.
The good news?Most cases of blocked ears are temporary and easy to resolve if handled correctly.
In this guide, we’ll explain why blocked ears happen after diving and walk through safe, proven methods to clear blocked ears without damaging your ears.
Why Do Divers Get Blocked Ears After Diving?
Blocked ears after diving are usually caused by:
Water trapped in the outer ear canal
Mild swelling of ear tissue after repeated pressure changes
Prolonged exposure to water during multiple dives
This is different from barotrauma or ear infections. If your blocked ears are not painful and you’re not dizzy, it’s likely just trapped moisture.
How to Clear Blocked Ears After Diving
1️⃣ Lie on Your Side to Drain Blocked Ears
One of the simplest ways to clear blocked ears.
Lie down with the affected ear facing downward
Gravity helps trapped water drain naturally
A gurgling sound often means the blockage is clearing
✅ Best done immediately after diving❌ Do not insert anything into your ear
2️⃣ Wiggle the Earlobe to Release Blocked Ears
This method helps open the ear canal slightly.
Tilt your head toward the blocked ear
Gently wiggle or pull the earlobe
Let gravity help water escape
⚠️ Be gentle—forcing it can worsen blocked ears.
3️⃣ Use a Hairdryer Carefully for Blocked Ears
Warm air helps evaporate moisture that causes blocked ears.
How to do it safely:
Lowest heat and airflow setting
Hold the dryer at least 30cm away
Gently tug the earlobe while applying warm air
🚫 Never blow hot air directly into the ear canal.
4️⃣ Hot Compress to Relieve Blocked Ears
Heat can reduce swelling and loosen trapped water.
Apply a warm towel to the blocked ear
Hold for a few minutes
Tilt your head to allow drainage
This is especially helpful for stubborn blocked ears after multiple dives.
5️⃣ Vinegar and Alcohol Drops for Blocked Ears
A well-known solution among divers.
Mix:
1 part rubbing alcohol
1 part white vinegar
Why it works:
Alcohol evaporates water
Vinegar restores natural ear acidity
Use 2–3 drops, wait 30 seconds, then drain.
❌ Do not use if you suspect an ear infection or perforated eardrum.
6️⃣ Hydrogen Peroxide Drops for Blocked Ears
Hydrogen peroxide can help remove moisture or debris.
Use a few drops
Let it fizz briefly
Drain completely
⚠️ Avoid if you have sensitive ears or pre-existing ear conditions.
7️⃣ Commercial Products for Blocked Ears
For convenience, many divers use commercial ear-drying drops.
Designed specifically for swimmers and divers
Easy to carry on dive trips
Most effective when used immediately after diving
Products like Swim-EAR are commonly used to prevent blocked ears.
What NOT to Do When You Have Blocked Ears
This is critical.
❌ Cotton buds
❌ Tissue paper
❌ Ear picks
❌ Aggressive head shaking
These can push water deeper and make blocked ears worse.
When Blocked Ears Need Medical Attention
Seek medical advice if your blocked ears come with:
Pain or increasing pressure
Dizziness or vertigo
Ringing in the ears
Fluid or pus discharge
Blockage lasting more than 48 hours
These are not normal post-dive symptoms.
Final Thoughts on Blocked Ears After Diving
Blocked ears after diving are common—but they shouldn’t be ignored.
The key principles are:
Act early
Be gentle
Never force anything into your ears
Healthy ears mean:
Easier equalisation
More comfortable dives
A longer, safer diving journey
At Cuddlefish Divers, we always remind our divers:
Your ears are your most important dive "equipment"—protect them.
Dive smart. Dive safe. And don’t let blocked ears ruin your next dive. 🌊🐠