No matter how old we get, nothing feels like summer as much as basically living at the pool, but that also means we never outgrow the danger of swimmer’s ear. If there’s nothing as much fun as cooling off in clear blue water, then there’s nothing quite so irritating as an ear infection you know you could have prevented— unless it’s the dollars you have to shell out for overpriced drops. Why do that, though, when we have this frugal, DIY version from One Good Thing By Jillee?

All you need is equal parts rubbing alcohol and white vinegar, mixed together in a clean bottle with a dropper. Then use them after swimming as you would any store-bought ear drops:

1. Tilt your head to the side.
2. Place 5 to 10 drops into your ear.
3. Keep your head tilted for a few minutes.
4. Hold a towel to your ear and raise your head up, allowing the drops to run out and wiping off any excess.
5. Repeat the process on your other ear.

Easy, on both your ears and your wallet. Remember— these drops are preventative, so never use them – or rubbing alcohol, for that matter – in ears that have already been infected. Check out One Good Thing By Jillee’s original post for more information, and of course, when in doubt, ask your doctor! Do you think you’ll give this DIY solution a try? What are some of your own homemade remedies and tricks for avoiding swimmer’s ear and other summer ailments?