An ear infection (otitis media) is an infection of the air-filled space behind the eardrum, often developing after a cold or respiratory illness. This causes fluid accumulation and painful pressure. Washing hair can be challenging, as water must be kept out of the affected ear. These guidelines provide safe techniques to manage hair washing while ensuring the ear remains dry throughout the process.
Why Protecting the Ear is Essential
Keeping the ear canal dry during an active infection is necessary to prevent complications and promote healing. Pressure buildup can inflame or rupture the eardrum, creating a direct pathway for external water to reach the middle ear. Water introduces foreign bacteria into this sterile space, which can aggravate the existing infection, intensify pain, and delay recovery. For individuals with ear tubes or a known eardrum perforation, water exposure is particularly hazardous as it bypasses the natural protective barrier.
Tools and Techniques for Keeping Ears Dry
Effective ear protection relies on creating a physical, waterproof barrier over the ear canal opening. The most accessible and reliable method utilizes cotton wool and petroleum jelly. To create this waterproof plug, tear off a piece of cotton wool large enough to comfortably cover the ear canal opening without being forced inside. Thoroughly coat the cotton piece with a generous layer of petroleum jelly, ensuring it is massaged into the fibers to create a dense, water-repellent seal. Gently place the coated cotton plug into the outer bowl of the ear, covering the entrance completely. The petroleum jelly is the waterproofing agent, as dry cotton absorbs water.
For extra protection, especially when showering, consider wearing a snug-fitting shower cap or a swim cap pulled down over the ears. Specialized moldable silicone ear putty can also be shaped over the outer ear opening to create a custom-fit, watertight barrier. The barrier must be securely in place before the water is turned on and should only be removed gently after the hair washing process is complete and the external ear area is dry.
Safe Hair Washing Methods
The hair washing process must be adapted to keep the protected ear completely out of the path of water and runoff.
Adult Washing
One of the safest methods involves leaning backward over a deep sink or tub basin, similar to a salon wash. The head should be tilted back so the water stream and shampoo runoff drain away from the ears and face. When showering, use a handheld shower sprayer to maintain precise control over the water flow. Keep the water pressure low and direct the stream only toward the back and top of the head, carefully avoiding the sides where the ears are located.
Child Washing
Washing a child’s hair requires secure positioning to prevent sudden movements that could dislodge the ear protection. A common technique involves holding the child in a modified “football hold,” cradling their body while their head is tilted back over a sink or tub edge. Alternatively, wrapping the child in a towel and tilting their head slightly backward while rinsing with a cup or handheld sprayer minimizes the chance of water running toward the ear.
Post-Wash Care
As a temporary measure, dry shampoo can absorb excess oil and refresh the hair without water. Once washing is complete, gently pat the external ear area dry with a soft towel. If moisture is suspected near the ear, a hairdryer set to the lowest, coolest setting can be held at least twelve inches away to gently evaporate residual water. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.