Over-ear headphones and gaming headsets sit against your skin for hours. The ear pads soak up sweat, skin oil, makeup and hair products, and the headband collects grime too. A regular clean keeps them comfortable, fresh and looking new. Here's how to do it.
What You'll Need
- A microfiber cloth
- A safe electronics cleaner
- A soft, dry brush (a clean toothbrush works)
- A dry cotton swab
Step 1: Unplug and Power Off
Turn the headphones off, unplug any cables and remove them from the charger.
Step 2: Remove the Ear Pads If You Can
Many ear pads twist or clip off. Check your manual, and don't force pads that aren't designed to come off.
Step 3: Clean the Ear Pads
- Leatherette (faux leather) pads: wipe with a cloth lightly dampened with a safe electronics cleaner. Wipe again with a cloth dampened with electronics cleaner, then dry. Avoid alcohol, which can dry out leatherette and make it crack over time.
- Fabric or velour pads: brush them to lift hair and debris, then spot clean with a barely damp cloth. Let them air dry completely.
Step 4: Clean the Speaker Mesh
With the pads off, gently brush the mesh over each driver with a soft, dry brush. Don't push anything through the mesh. wipe mesh gently.
Step 5: Wipe the Headband and Ear Cups
Wipe the headband and outer ear cups with a lightly damp microfiber cloth. Use a dry cotton swab around buttons, hinges and the microphone.
Step 6: Clean the Cable
Run a lightly damp cloth along the cable, then dry it. Keep moisture out of the plug and the charging port.
Step 7: Dry Before Reassembling
Let every part dry completely before you put the pads back on or wear them.
What to Avoid
- Getting liquid inside the ear cups or the ports
- Soaking ear pads unless the maker says they're washable
- Alcohol or harsh cleaners on leatherette
- Putting damp pads back on
When to Replace Your Ear Pads
If the surface is flaking, cracked or the foam has gone flat, it's time for new pads. Most popular headphones have replacement pads available.
How Often Should You Clean Them?
Wipe the pads after workouts or long gaming sessions, and give your headphones a full clean every couple of weeks.
Keep Your Gear Fresh
A microfiber cloth and a soft brush handle most of the job. Shop cleaning kits → https://tech2clean.com/products/electronics-cleaning-detailing-kit