At Midnight Pharmacy, we know how frustrating a blocked ear can be. Whether it’s caused by a build-up of earwax, a cold, or changes in air pressure, that sensation of muffled hearing or pressure in the ear can affect your comfort, focus, and even your balance.

If you’re looking for safe and simple advice on how to open a blocked ear at home, we’re here to help. While nothing replaces professional care when it’s needed, there are a few gentle techniques you can try first. These methods can help ease mild blockage – but if symptoms persist, our in-pharmacy microsuction earwax removal service is fast, safe, and highly effective.

Here are five techniques to try at home, with clear steps and advice from our team.

1. Try the Valsalva Manoeuvre (Swallowing or Gentle Blowing)

If your ears feel blocked due to a recent flight, changes in altitude, or a lingering cold, you may simply need to equalise the pressure in your middle ear.

How to try it:

• –> Close your mouth and pinch your nose shut.

• –> Take a deep breath and gently blow as if you are blowing your nose.

• –> You should feel or hear a “pop” as your Eustachian tubes open.

Important: Never blow too hard, as this can damage the eardrum. This technique works best when done gently and may be more effective if followed by yawning or swallowing.

2. Use Steam Inhalation

Steam can help soften thick mucus or loosen earwax that may be contributing to the blockage. It’s also helpful if your ears feel blocked due to a cold or sinus congestion.

How to do it:

• –> Boil water and pour it into a bowl.

• –> Place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl to trap the steam.

• –> Inhale deeply through your nose for 10–15 minutes.

This can also be done during a warm shower. For added relief, you can add menthol or eucalyptus to the water – but only if you are not sensitive to strong scents.

3. Apply a Warm Compress

If your blocked ear feels uncomfortable or achy, a warm compress can help by improving blood flow and softening wax.

Instructions:

• –> Soak a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water.

• –> Wring out excess water and hold the cloth against the affected ear for 5 to 10 minutes.

• –> Repeat as needed throughout the day.

This method is safe and soothing, especially for children or those who prefer a gentler approach.

4. Use Olive Oil or Ear Drops

For wax-related blockages, softening the wax with olive oil or pharmacy-recommended ear drops is often the first step. This won’t remove the wax immediately, but may allow it to move naturally or make it easier to extract during a professional procedure like microsuction.

How to apply:

• –> Lie on your side with the affected ear facing up.

• –> Using a clean dropper, place 2–3 drops of olive oil or ear drops into the ear canal.

• –> Stay lying down for a few minutes, then wipe away any excess oil.

• –> Repeat once or twice daily for 3–5 days.

Avoid this method if you have a history of ear infections, a perforated eardrum, or persistent pain without a clear cause. If you’re unsure, speak to our pharmacy team for guidance.

5. Tilt and Drain for Trapped Water

If your ear feels blocked after swimming or bathing, water may be trapped inside the canal. This can usually be resolved with a simple draining technique.

Try this:

• –> Tilt your head to the side and gently tug on your earlobe.

• –> Hop or shake your head gently to encourage the water to drain.

• –> You can also lie on your side for several minutes with the blocked ear facing downward.

Dry the outside of your ear with a soft towel afterwards. If water remains trapped for more than a day, it’s worth seeking advice to avoid infection.

When Home Remedies Don’t Work

While these techniques can help ease temporary discomfort, they may not fully resolve blockages caused by hardened wax or underlying issues. If your ear remains blocked for more than a few days, or if you experience hearing loss, pain, dizziness, or ringing in the ears, it’s time to seek professional care.

At Midnight Pharmacy, we offer expert microsuction earwax removal in a clean, safe, and professional setting. Unlike syringing or irrigation, microsuction uses gentle suction to remove wax without introducing moisture into the ear. It’s quick, precise, and usually provides immediate relief.

Book Your Microsuction Appointment Today

Don’t let a blocked ear ruin your day or linger longer than it needs to. If you’ve been searching ‘how to open a blocked ear at home’ and the methods haven’t worked, our team at Midnight Pharmacy is here to help.

We offer:

• –> Professional ear assessments

• –> Same-day or next-day microsuction appointments

• –> Advice on aftercare and preventing future blockages

Visit us in-store or contact us today to book your microsuction consultation in Bradford. We’ll have your ears feeling clear and comfortable again in no time.

This blog was written on behalf of Midnight Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.