Home Remedy for Stuffy Ears

Stuffy ears can result from a cold or ear infection, as well as from built up ear wax. This can make it hard to hear sounds and can be very uncomfortable. Over-the-counter decongestants may work to unclog ears, but there are also several home remedies that can offer relieve. If congestion persists, however, you should see a doctor.

Hydrogen Peroxide

• Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide into your ear while lying on your side with a towel under you to catch drips. Let the peroxide sit for several minutes to give it time to work. Then place the towel over your ear and tilt your head to allow the ear to drain. This may need to be repeated several times and it is sometimes helpful to push behind your ear with your thumb to help loosen anything that is in the ear.

Rubbing Alcohol

• You can also pour rubbing alcohol into the ear to dry up fluids and earwax. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before turning your head over with a towel to catch the fluid. Use an ear syringe to flush the ear out with warm water to eliminate anything that may still be in the ear.

Ear Candling

• Purchase an ear candle, sometimes called an ear cone from any health food store or vitamin retailer. You will need another person's help for this. Lying on your side, have your assistant place the tapered end of the candle in your ear. Place a paper plate or pie tin under the candle to catch any falling ash. Light the candle and allow it to burn according to package directions. Use a fresh candle for the other ear. Do not use ear candles if you have tubes in your ears or ruptured eardrums. The heat will melt earwax and the vacuum created will remove toxins from the ear. Some people believe that the smoke helps to heal infection. There are no scientific studies proving that ear candling works, though.

Additional Tips

• Place a heating pad wrapped in a towel on your ear and allow it to stay in place for 30 minutes. The heat will ease pain and discomfort and unblock the ear in some cases. Afterward, clean the ear thoroughly with a cotton swab to remove any debris.

  Yawning and chewing gum can also be effective in unplugging stuffy ears. This technique is generally used for ears that are clogged due to flying or altitude changes, but can also loosen earwax plugs in the ear.