It only took me 50 years to figure out how to get excess water out of my ears after a workout without doing the "one legged-banging-head-with-palm" dance. Paper towels, napkins, or even newsprint will work. Don't use polished or bond paper, it is way too tough on the flesh and doesn't absorb very well.
Through the magic of capillary action, you can remove 94% of the offending water simply by putting your finger in a paper towel and sticking it into your ear. No need to wiggle it around or push hard. As long as the paper touches water, it will drain most moisture out of a healthy ear. Amazing but true. I don't know why my towel cannot do this, but have had remarkable success over the last 6 months since I gave it a try.
Cheers and good drainage!
Former Member
Have you tried using earplugs (speedo, arena)?
I myself had to shake my head all the time during lap swimming. It was bothering me so much. Now I just plug my ear and the problem is solved. Also it is good if your pool is noisy (mine is). You can relax and focus more on your technics or your thought with the less distraction.
a few drops of 90% isopropyl works.
and no need for the "expensive" swimear (tm) stuff
50/50 isopropyl and white vinegar and NO ear aches ever. and will kill any you do have.
for the first time in my life i have experienced pain while swimming due to water in my ears. the last 2 times i have tried to swim, theres been some strangeness. outside of the pool (after removing the water) they have felt just fine. has anyone else ever had this suddenly pop up after 20 years of being in the water without ever having any real trouble before?
The white vinegar is a disinfectant.
The iso alcohol dries moisture through increased evaporation, while the white vinegar is a "disinfectant" in that it is acetic acid, thus drops the pH, and provides a low pH environment where bacteria won't thrive.
The iso alcohol dries moisture through increased evaporation, while the white vinegar is a "disinfectant" in that it is acetic acid, thus drops the pH, and provides a low pH environment where bacteria won't thrive.
Thanks 'jerz! Your explanation was much more thorough than mine. :agree:
You can get custom-made earplugs, such as the Aqua Not by Westone (www.westone.com/.../index.php.
Getting custom-made earplugs ensures that they fit your ears perfectly and keep out the water as much as possible!
