The Essentials of Ear Health for Swimmers

Swimming can be a great source of relaxation and exercise both outdoors and inside in the pool. However, it can come with some hidden risks to your ear health. Keeping your ears protected while swimming is crucial in preventing discomfort and potential long-term issues. 

How are Ears Vulnerable while Swimming?

Our ears are very sensitive to the environment. In fact, the ear canal is a haven for bacteria attracted to moisture, making it susceptible both to infections and inflammation.¹ Swimming, no matter where, can introduce water into this canal, creating an environment in your ears that is ripe for issues.² This risk is compounded when swimming in non-chlorinated water, such as in the sea or lakes and rivers, due to an increased amount of bacteria, which can lead to increased instances of bacterial or fungal infections such as swimmer’s ear.³

How can the Ears be Protected?

1. Swimming Earplugs 

Swimming earplugs are a simple, cost-effective preventative measure to keep water out of your ears. These soft, silicone plugs create a watertight seal to prevent water from entering the ear canal. Available in adult and kid sizes, swimming earplugs should be a staple in every swimmer’s bag. We recommend the Mack’s Ear Plugs Range. Mack’s have swimming earplugs for all ear sizes, which seal better than custom earplugs by moulding to the unique contours of your ear. Each ear plug can also be reused until soiled or no longer sticky (up to five times). 

2. Ear Drying Drops 

Even when using the best earplugs, a small amount of water can sometimes enter the ear canal. In this situation, ear drying drops come in handy. Our recommendation is Mack’s Dry-n-Clear ear drying aid. Simply apply 4-5 drops in each affected ear to relieve the discomfort of water-clogged ears. Mack’s Dry-n-Clear is formulated with a unique moisturizing agent that helps dry excess water while conditioning the delicate lining of the ear canal. 

3. Ear Bands

Using a swimming ear band can also be a great solution for keeping ears healthy while swimming. They can help keep ears warm during cold water and winter activities, prevent swimmer’s ear, and keep ear protection in place. In fact, they are especially good at helping prevent kids from easily removing their ear protection. Our recommendation is Mack's Swimming Ear Band. Mack's Swimming Ear Band is a stylish 2-colour reversable neoprene headband that is placed across the forehead, covers the ears, and secures at the back of the neck.

Swimming shouldn’t compromise your ear health. By incorporating these simple steps into your swimming routine, you can make a massive difference in preserving your ear health and preventing infections, discomfort, and long-term damage. Remember, when it comes to ear health, prevention is key! So, dive into the water with confidence and keep your ears dry and protected.

Our Recommendations:

Macks Swim Earplugs Kids (6 Pairs)
Macks Silicone Earplugs (2 Pairs)
Macks Silicone Earplugs Value Pack (6 Pairs)
Mack's Dry-n-Clear 30ml
Mack's Swimming Ear Band

Sources:

https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/newsroom/articles/year-2022/july-swimmers-ear.html

Endnotes:

¹https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/newsroom/articles/year-2022/july-swimmers-ear.html
²https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/newsroom/articles/year-2022/july-swimmers-ear.html
³https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/newsroom/articles/year-2022/july-swimmers-ear.html

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