I use an old ear cleaner dispenser bottle and mix 1/2 witch hazel with 1/2 organic apple cider vinegar or water. I apply 1 or 2 drops per ear, I use a Q-tip to gently swab. Just once or twice till the Q-tip looks clean. The vets will advise you not to use a Q-tip as you could cause damage if you do it wrong, they will suggest cotton balls instead. Store leftover in fridg and discard after a few weeks and mix fresh.
This is only for routine weekly cleaning, not intended to treat infection. I would go by what your vet recommends if there is chronic infection. Prescription drops are needed to treat infection and inflammation. Usually antibiotic and steroidal (in my experience)
I would ask your vet what over the counter ear drops he recommends if prescription drops are not necessary. I would not use anything unless the vet approves, sometimes you can make things worse.
