Protect Your Ears Against Swimmers Ear – What You Need to Know

Swimming is an excellent way to stay fit, build confidence in the water, and enjoy time with family — but frequent exposure to water can sometimes come with hidden risks. One common issue swimmers face is swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa. In the UK, about 1–3% of the general population is affected each year, but swimmers are 2.5 times more likely to develop this painful condition.

What Is Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by trapped water, which creates a moist environment where bacteria or fungi can thrive. It often leads to itching, discomfort, redness, and even temporary hearing loss. If left untreated, it can worsen and require medical intervention.

Why Are Swimmers More at Risk?

Repeated water exposure — particularly in chlorinated pools — can strip the ear canal of its natural protective oils. This, combined with small abrasions from earbuds or cotton buds, can make ears more vulnerable to infection.

How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear

The good news? With a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing swimmer’s ear:

• Use Swimming Earplugs: High-quality, waterproof earplugs designed for swimming create a barrier that prevents water from entering the ear canal. They’re especially useful for regular swimmers or children who swim weekly.
• Dry Ears Properly: After each swim, tilt your head to each side to drain water, and gently dry the outer ear with a towel. Avoid using cotton buds inside the ear.
• Try a Swim Cap: A snug-fitting swim cap can help reduce water ingress and protect the ears.
• Use Ear Drops: Specially formulated drying drops or preventive drops (available from pharmacies) can help keep the ears dry and bacteria-free after swimming.

SwimExpert Tip: Stay Ahead of Infections

If you or your child swims regularly, investing in ear protection is just as important as goggles or swimwear. Our expert instructors at SwimExpert always prioritise swimmer safety — both in the water and beyond.

Stay safe, swim smart — and keep your ears healthy all season long.
Want to learn more about safe swimming practices? Explore our blog or book a lesson today!