Patent ID: 8784352

Claim:
A method for removing residual water from the external ear canal of an individual, comprising the steps of: a. providing a device having a bluntly pointed tip on at least one end, wherein at least the bluntly pointed tip is comprised of a dry, pre-compressed, absorbent sponge material of a size and shape able to fit into the proximal portion of the external ear canal; b. placing said bluntly pointed tip into the external ear canal of an individual, said bluntly pointed tip retaining its size and shape until coming into contact with water in the external ear canal; c. holding said bluntly pointed tip in place until there is visible and/or tactile evidence of water absorption by the sponge material, as indicated by swelling and softening of said bluntly pointed tip; and d. withdrawing said bluntly pointed tip from the external ear canal of the individual.