We've all been there. Lost in the rhythm of our favorite tunes or engrossed in a thrilling podcast, only to realize that our earbuds need a serious clean. You got into one recently and are finally here to find out how to clean earbuds, right?
But the problem here is that your earbuds have many tough-to-reach areas, and cleaning them the wrong way can cause more damage. But don’t worry; we will share the best way to clean your cherished devices without damaging them.
So, without further ado, let’s find out how to clean earbuds in the best possible way.
Why Clean Your Earbuds?
Are you excited to introduce your friends to your music playlist? Well, take a look at your earbuds before sharing them with your friends. If they catch a glimpse of the earwax buildup and the discolored ear tips, even your closest companions can't help but recoil in horror.
But it’s not just about appearance; this build-up of greasy material affects the performance of your earbuds as well. Over time, sweat, dirt, earwax, and other grimy substances accumulate in your earbuds. This buildup then moves down to the crevices, muffling the sound of your pods.
The result? You'll find yourself looking for the new earbuds in just a few days. What else? This greasy accumulation also harbors bacteria, which can transfer to your ear canal, causing infection. So cleaning your earbuds isn't just about maintaining appearances; it's a key step in ensuring optimal sound quality, hygiene, and the longevity of your trusty audio companions.
Earbud Cleaning Don'ts
But don’t get overexcited, and put your earbuds in the washing machine for a good round of cleaning. There are some no-nos to cleaning your earbuds.
Let’s get familiar with them.
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Earbuds are water resistant but not waterproof, so do not dip, soak, or immerse them in water.
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Avoid using bleach or hydrogen peroxide, including substances containing them.
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Do not use harsh materials or abrasive substances for cleaning, as they can damage the earbuds.
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Do not use excessive force, as it might damage your delicate buds.
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Make sure water does not penetrate charging contacts or other openings.
Cleaning Essentials
Now that you've got the big no’s of cleaning earbuds up your sleeves, let’s crack how to clean earbuds the right way.
First of all, grab all the essentials required to clean your audio device. Don’t worry; you don’t need fancy tools to ensure effective cleaning.
Here is the list:
For Earbud Cleaning
Here is what you need for the cleaning step:
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Lint-free cloth
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Cotton swabs
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Dry, soft-bristled brush (e.g., an anti-static brush or a soft toothbrush)
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Place your earbuds in a clean and dry place, and use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe off the outer surface of your earbuds.
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If you accidentally spill food, oil, or hair dye on your earbud, take a damp cloth and use fresh water to wipe off the stains.
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Now, take a dry cotton swab and use it carefully on the mesh and microphone to clean them. You can also use a wooden toothpick on the areas where cotton swabs can’t reach.
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If you see any visible dust or debris remaining on the mesh, use a soft-bristled brush to clean it off.
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Finally, use a wipe or dampened microfiber cloth to give the final touch to the cleaning process.
For Disinfecting Earbuds and Cases
Remember, disinfection is a must-have. You can remove visible debris and dust using a damp cloth, but to get rid of bacteria residing on your buds, you need proper disinfection.
You can disinfect the earbuds using any one of these two:
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Isopropyl Alcohol (70% or less)
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Disinfecting Wipes
Isopropyl alcohol is an effective disinfectant that can clean earbuds without getting harsh on your delicate device. Alternatively, you can use disinfectant wipes, especially when you don’t have enough time.
To ensure a proper clean, use 70% isopropyl alcohol, dip the cotton swab in the rubbing alcohol, and gently clean the exterior of the earbuds. Do not let the moisture reach the mesh speaker. If you are wondering how to clean Apple earbuds, this deep cleaning process will help you clean your AirPods Pro.
Removing Earwax and Dirt: Tips and Tricks
Wondering how to clean wireless earbuds effectively? These few tips will make your cleaning process easier and more effective:
Using Cotton Buds and Toothbrushes
You need to be gentle while using cotton buds and avoid pushing ear wax further into the earbuds. For the more delicate parts, like the mesh covering the speakers, a soft-bristle toothbrush can work wonders.
Cleaning Removable Parts
If your earbuds have removable silicone or foam tips, take them off and clean them separately. These often harbor the most earwax and bacteria. Soak them in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry before reattaching.
Charging Case Care
Your charging case deserves attention, too. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any dust or debris. If the charging ports are dusty, blow gently to remove loose particles. Avoid using toothpicks or any other sharp tool that might damage the connectors. Besides, never use any liquid on the charging port.
Earphone Socket Cleaning
For wireless earbuds that connect via Bluetooth, don't forget to clean your device's charging port or headphone jack. A can of compressed air or a small, soft brush can help remove dust and lint.
Drying Your Earbuds
Moisture is the enemy of electronics. After cleaning, ensure your earbuds are completely dry before using or placing them back in the charging case. Don’t leave them wet, as it can damage internal components or, at the very least, compromise sound quality.
Cleaning Silicone and Plastic Cases
For silicone or plastic cases, a mixture of soap and water usually does the trick. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any grime. Besides, you can disinfect it with isopropyl alcohol, making sure it's not too concentrated to avoid damage. If your case has a fabric exterior, be cautious with moisture to prevent discoloration.
Earbuds vs. Headphones: Cleaning Differences
The basic cleaning principle is the same for both earbuds and headphones. Over-ear headphones may have larger ear cushions that require special attention. However, you can separate the ear cushions, and you can clean them easily. Just wipe down the headband and exterior with a damp cloth, avoiding excessive moisture around the ear cups.
Deep Cleaning Earbuds
For a more thorough cleaning, you can remove any removable parts of your earbud and soak them in warm, soapy water. You can use a toothpick or soft brush to dislodge stubborn grime from crevices. However, avoid using water directly on the main body of your audio device. Use alcohol wipes or a damp cloth for cleaning. If you want a more thorough cleaning, you can purchase a high-quality earbud cleaning kit from a reliable source.
Keeping Earbuds Clean Longer
Of course, it takes time and effort to fully clean your earbuds. So, you will try your best to keep them clean for longer.
Learning how to clean earbud tips properly is essential for the longevity of your earbuds.
Clean Regularly
Instead of waiting for the dirt and grime to fully occupy your earbuds, take a clean cloth and wipe them off regularly. This will help develop the stubborn layers of dust and debris, and you’ll save time and hard work.
Keep Them Dry
Every time you use earbuds or the charging case, make sure they are dry. If you use them wet, they will get dirty too soon. Besides, keep them dry in a cool and dry place after the cleaning sessions to make sure there is no moisture left.
Store in a Case
After use, put your earbuds back in the case. This not only protects your earphones from physical damage but also prevents dust and debris from settling on them.
Use Smart Tools
Luckily, there are some smart cleaning tools designed solely for your earbuds, such as the Hybuds Pen. This amazing cleaning pen is your all-in-one solution to ensure immaculate cleanliness. With a flocking sponge, a soft brush, and an optimized meta tip, this is the perfect tool for your earbud cleaning needs. So get one for your earbuds now to make devices such as your AirPods cleaner and look brand new again.
Earbud Cleaning FAQs
How do I clean my AirPods Pro charging case?
For cleaning your AirPods Pro charging case, use a dry, lint-free cloth. If you must, you can slightly dampen the cloth, or you can use isopropyl alcohol to disinfect your AirPods fully. But remember, avoid getting liquid into your metal contacts or charging ports.
How often should I clean my earbuds?
It is recommended to clean your earbuds every 72 hours. This means you should clean them once a week if you use them regularly.
Can I use hand sanitizer to disinfect my earbuds?
A: It's not recommended because hand sanitizers may contain harsh chemicals that could damage the delicate components of your earbuds.
How do I clean earwax from mesh-covered speakers?
Use a soft brush or toothpick and gently dislodge the earwax. Avoid pushing it further into the speaker grille.
