How to clear a blocked ear: A step-by-step guide
How to clear a blocked ear: A step-by-step guide
9 min.
Publication Date: January 27, 2021
Article Updated: January 15, 2026
Blocked or clogged ears are incredibly common—and incredibly annoying. They can make sounds seem muffled, throw off your balance, and in some cases, lead to lasting hearing issues. Fortunately, most blockages are temporary and treatable at home as long as you use the right approach.
This step-by-step guide will help you understand what causes ear blockages, what not to do, and how to clear a blocked ear safely with home remedies, pharmacy treatments, and professional care.
Note: Our Hearing Care Providers (HCPs) are here to support your hearing health and provide personalized guidance. However, if you're concerned about medical issues affecting your hearing, always consult your healthcare provider first.
What does a blocked ear feel like?
Blocked ears often cause more than just muffled sound. Depending on the cause, you might also notice:
A sensation of fullness or pressure
Itchiness or aching in or around the ear
Ringing or buzzing (tinnitus)
Dizziness, vertigo, or poor balance
Popping sounds during swallowing or yawning
Drainage, especially if an infection is present
If symptoms come on suddenly or affect your balance, you may be dealing with something more than just earwax.
What causes blocked ears?
Several common conditions can make your ears feel clogged. Understanding the source can help you choose the right remedy.
Earwax buildup
Earwax is your body’s way of protecting and cleaning the ear canal. But too much of it—especially when pushed deeper by earbuds or cotton swabs—can cause a blockage.
Eustachian tube dysfunction
These tiny tubes connect your middle ear to the back of your throat. They help regulate pressure, but can become blocked due to allergies, colds, sinus infections, or changes in altitude (such as flying or diving).
Middle ear infections
Known as otitis media, these infections cause fluid to build up behind the eardrum, leading to pressure and discomfort. Children are more prone to ear infections, but adults can experience them too, especially during or after respiratory illnesses.
Noise exposure and anxiety
Loud environments, chronic stress, or high blood pressure may lead to temporary changes in how your ears process sound, creating a clogged or “off-balance” sensation.
Trapped water
Swimming, showering, or bathing can leave moisture in the outer ear canal, especially if you have narrow or curved canals that hold fluid more easily. This is often referred to as swimmer’s ear.
What should you avoid when clearing a blocked ear?
It’s tempting to reach for whatever’s nearby to “dig out” the blockage, but this can make things worse. Make sure you avoid:
Cotton swabs (Q-tips), which push wax deeper
Ear picks, paperclips, bobby pins, or fingers
Towels, tissues, or anything inserted into the canal
Ear candling, which can cause burns and is not supported by medical evidence
Why is ear candling dangerous?
The idea behind ear candling is that a hollow candle creates a vacuum that pulls wax out. In reality, it’s more likely to drip hot wax into your ear, burn your skin, or even puncture your eardrum. According to Health Canada, this practice carries a high risk of injury and is not recommended. In fact, it is illegal to sell ear candles in Canada.
What home remedies can help unclog ears?
Most minor blockages resolve on their own, but some at-home strategies can help speed things along.
Jaw movement and swallowing
Chewing gum, yawning, or swallowing repeatedly can open the eustachian tubes and relieve pressure. This is especially effective after altitude changes or during sinus congestion.
Popping your ears (Valsalva maneuver)
Pinch your nose, close your mouth, and gently exhale as if blowing your nose. You should feel a small pop, indicating that pressure is equalizing.
Steam and warm compresses
Inhaling steam from a hot shower or bowl of water can help loosen mucus and open nasal passages. A warm compress on the ear may also relieve mild pain or pressure.
Wax softeners
Use a few body-temperature drops of wax softener approved for use in the ear canal, such as Audiologist’s Choice. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then tilt your head to drain. Repeat daily for up to 5 days. Do not use if you have a perforated eardrum or a history of tubes or ear surgery.
Water removal techniques
If trapped water is the issue, try tilting your head while gently moving your earlobe or using a hair dryer on low, held at a safe distance.
When to use earplugs
Use them in noisy environments or while swimming to help prevent further issues, but avoid overuse, as they can also contribute to wax buildup.
What can your pharmacist recommend for blocked ears?
For mild blockages, pharmacists may suggest ear drops designed to soften wax. These can help loosen buildup, but they’re not suitable for everyone—especially if you’ve previously had a perforated eardrum, frequent infections, ear surgery, or ear tubes.
Some pharmacies also offer gentle irrigation kits or decongestants to relieve sinus-related pressure. Always describe your symptoms before starting any treatment, and if in doubt, speak to your doctor first.
When should you see a doctor for a blocked ear?
If your symptoms last longer than five days, get worse, or come with pain or discharge, it’s time to consult a professional. Contact your primary healthcare provider if you notice:
Persistent or severe pain
Sudden hearing loss
Fluid, pus, or blood coming from the ear
Ongoing dizziness or vertigo
Ringing that won’t stop (tinnitus)
Fever or swelling near the ear or jaw
How to handle a blocked ear safely
Clearing a blocked ear doesn’t have to be complicated, but doing it the wrong way can lead to long-term issues. Be patient, use safe techniques, and don’t hesitate to seek medical help if needed.
Key takeaways
Never use cotton swabs, ear picks, or candles to clear a blocked ear.
Start with safe home remedies like steam, swallowing, or jaw movement.
Wax softeners and pharmacy drops may help, but check with your pharmacist or doctor.
See your primary healthcare provider if symptoms persist, worsen, or involve pain or discharge.
Regular hearing tests can help identify buildup or infections early.
Need help with recurring blockage or hearing changes? Book a free hearing test or find a clinic near you to speak with a trusted Hearing Care Provider (HCP).