A.G.
I know answers vary, but my son (now 7) had tubes put in last June and his doctor told us that if he swam in lakes or the ocean he had to have earplugs in his ears because of bacteria. She also wanted him to use earplugs in the bathtub (so he no longer bathes, just showers). He does not have to use earplugs in the shower or in swimming pools with chlorine. So far he hasn't had any problems. Good luck!