My almost 16 month old's left ear is red and he keepa rubbing it like it iches or hurts. no fever and is eating well.what should i do?

Unlikely infection: First, it does not sound like an ear infection - the outer ear usually does not turn red. More likely some type of irritation from something contacting the ear - a soap, clothing, residue from dryer sheets, etc. Ears can swell and turn red in allergic reactions to something he ate or inhaled (like pollens this time of year). Ok to try a dose of Diphenhydramine (benadryl) and see if symptoms subside.