From the Guidelines
Acetic acid (half-strength vinegar) should not be used for ear canal hygiene due to the potential risks of exacerbating cerumen impaction and causing self-inflicted harms, such as abrasions and cuts, as highlighted in the clinical practice guideline update on earwax (cerumen impaction) 1. The use of acetic acid or half-strength vinegar for ear canal hygiene is not recommended as a routine practice. According to the guideline, ear hygiene is commonly performed, but it can lead to harmful effects, such as cerumen impaction, especially in individuals who are at greatest risk, including children, the elderly, and the cognitively impaired 1. Some key points to consider when evaluating ear hygiene practices include:
- Cerumen production is a normal physiologic process, and preventive measures should focus on those at greatest risk for developing occlusion and those with a history of impaction 1.
- The use of cotton-tipped swabs and other objects to clean the ears can exacerbate cerumen impaction and cause injuries, including skin abrasions and eardrum perforation 1.
- Clinicians should educate patients on safe and effective ear hygiene practices, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the use of objects that can push earwax further into the ear canal and cause harm 1. It is essential to prioritize caution when considering ear canal hygiene practices, and the use of acetic acid or half-strength vinegar is not a recommended method for maintaining ear health, as it may cause more harm than benefit, particularly in individuals with pre-existing ear conditions or those who are at risk for cerumen impaction 1.
From the Research
Ear Canal Hygiene and Acetic Acid
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to support the use of acetic acid (half-strength vinegar) for ear canal hygiene 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies focus on self-ear cleaning practices, ear wax removal, and aural hygiene practices, but do not mention the use of acetic acid as a treatment or cleaning agent.
- One study discusses the use of ear drops for ear wax removal, including oil-based and water-based treatments, but does not include acetic acid as an option 3.
- Another study mentions the importance of cleaning the ear canal mechanically, rinsing with saline, and drying by suction, but does not recommend the use of acetic acid 5.
- The presence of antimicrobial peptides in ear wax is discussed in one study, which may have implications for the development of new treatments for external auditory canal diseases, but does not address the use of acetic acid 6.
Alternative Ear Cleaning Methods
- The use of cotton buds, earbuds, and other objects to clean the ear canal is common, but may pose a risk of injury or push wax further into the ear canal 2, 4.
- Rinsing with saline and drying by suction are recommended as part of a mechanical cleaning process 5.
- The use of ear drops, including oil-based and water-based treatments, may be effective in removing ear wax, but the evidence is limited and more research is needed to determine the best treatment options 3.