What is the best way to unplug an ear from a cold?

Over the weekend I developed a cold, possibly a mild case of bronchitis. I started to feel better, but then my left ear has since been plugged up. It has not been painful, but I can only hear about 50% in it.

So, what is the best remedy for this? Have you experienced this before? What worked and what didn’t?

And, no, I am not going to close my nose and mouth then blow out to pop it. I heard that can cause damage.