Earbuds spend hours in your ears and the rest of the day in a pocket or bag. Earwax, skin oil and lint build up quickly, and that can make them look grimy and sound muffled. Here's how to clean AirPods and other wireless earbuds without damaging them.
What You'll Need
- A soft, dry, lint-free cloth (microfiber is ideal)
- A soft-bristled brush
- All-purpose Electronics Cleaner
- A cotton swab (for the case)
Step 1: Wipe the Outside
Wipe each earbud with a dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with safe electronics cleaner, wipe, then dry with a dry part of the cloth. Never run earbuds under a tap.
Step 2: Clean the Speaker Mesh
The mesh is where earwax builds up and muffles the sound. Hold the earbud with the mesh facing down and brush it gently with a soft, dry brush so loosened debris falls out instead of in. Don't use pins, toothpicks or anything sharp, which can push wax through or tear the mesh.
For a deeper clean on AirPods, Apple's support page describes a method using micellar water and a soft child's toothbrush, followed by distilled water and at least two hours of drying. Follow those steps exactly if you try it.
Step 3: Clean Silicone Ear Tips
If your earbuds have removable silicone tips, pull them off, rinse them with fresh water or clean with safe electronics cleaner (no soap) and wipe them with a dry cloth. Make sure they're completely dry before you put them back on.
Step 4: Clean the Charging Case
Wipe the outside of the case with a dry microfiber cloth. Use a dry cotton swab to clean inside the lid and the wells where the earbuds sit. For the charging port, use only a clean, dry, soft brush gently. Harsh and rough cleaning can damage the metal contacts.
Step 5: Let Everything Dry
Leave the earbuds and case to air dry fully before putting the earbuds back in the case or in your ears.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Running earbuds under water, even if they're rated water resistant.
- Using sharp objects on the mesh.
- Getting liquid in any opening, including the charging port.
- Putting damp earbuds back in the case.
How Often Should You Clean Them?
Give them a quick wipe once a week, and brush the mesh every couple of weeks or whenever the sound seems quieter than usual. Clean them after workouts.
Keep a Cloth Handy
A small microfiber cloth in your bag makes a weekly wipe easy. Shop cleaning essentials →https://tech2clean.com/products/electronics-cleaning-detailing-kit