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Home Remedy Using Vinegar to Dry Ears After Swimming

Swimmer's ear is a condition in which water gets trapped deep inside the ear canal, causing discomfort and, if left untreated, possible infection. Swimmer's ear doesn't come only from swimming. It can also happen when water enters the ear during a shower or through any other activity involving water.

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar

    • If you notice that a bit of water is trapped inside your ear after a swim or shower, try putting a few drops of apple cider vinegar into your ear to help relieve the discomfort and dry up the water.

      Using a clean eyedropper, instill three or four drops of apple cider vinegar diluted with an equal amount of water into the affected ear while lying on your side. Leave the apple cider vinegar in your ear for several minutes while remaining on your side so the vinegar doesn't leak out.

      After a few minutes, block the ear with a small cotton ball to catch any liquid that may drip out upon sitting up or standing. Repeat this as necessary until the water is evacuated from the ear canal.

      Apple cider vinegar helps to dry the water as well as prevent bacterial and fungal growth within the ear that could lead to a painful ear infection.

    Distilled White Vinegar

    • White vinegar may also be used in the ear. It is recommended, however, that the white vinegar be diluted to a 50/50 solution with warm water. Instill three to four drops into the affected ear and remain on your side for several minutes. Catch any possible drips that may occur upon sitting up with a cotton ball or tissue held up to the ear. Repeat as necessary.

      For a more potent way to remove water from the ear, mix a solution of one part distilled white vinegar and one part isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Instill several drops into the ear canal and wait a few minutes while lying on your side to ensure that the mixture gets deep into the canal.

      The alcohol and vinegar help to dry up water that is trapped in the ear while also providing excellent protection against bacteria and fungi.

      Repeat these steps as necessary until the water is removed from the ear canal.

    When to Seek Medical Help

    • If you notice any pain in the ear, whether it is a sharp, shooting pain or a constant ache, see a doctor to determine if you have an ear infection. Occasionally, water that gets trapped in the ear can become a breeding place for bacteria and fungi, leading to a painful infection that can rupture the eardrum and cause hearing loss if left untreated. Other signs of ear infection include a milky or yellow discharge from the ear, a low-grade fever, pain in the jaw and dizziness. See a doctor if you should experience any of these symptoms.

      If you've ever had a punctured or ruptured eardrum or have had ear surgery, consult a doctor before putting vinegar in your ears for any reason.

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