Some people may be afraid to clean their AirPods due to fear of damage. But any headphones are a prime breeding ground for bacteria and need to be cleaned well and often.
Remember, you’re putting those AirPods in your ear, and all the dirt, wax, and bacteria buildup can go right to your ear canals.
Mark Stallings, co-founder of Casely, unveils the best way to clean AirPods without damaging them.
Do You Really Need to Clean Your AirPods?
Short answer – yes! For two very good reasons. First, it affects your audio quality. The buildup of debris, especially in the mesh areas of your air pods can change how well sound travels to your ears. Secondly, all of that bacteria can cause anything from ear blackheads and zits to an ear infection in extreme cases.
Mark’s Step by Step Cleaning Guide
Materials needed: Lint-free cloth, cotton swabs, disinfectant
1. Dry Wipe
Before proceeding with cleaning, use a lint-free cloth to wipe down your AirPods, removing initial dust and wax. Then, utilize a cotton swab to carefully clean out any gunk from the mesh areas.
2. Disinfect
Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol on a paper towel or disinfecting wipes to thoroughly sanitize the entire AirPods. Ensure the cloth used isn’t overly wet to prevent moisture damage.
3. Repeat With Case
Don’t overlook the case; follow the same cleaning steps, being particularly cautious about moisture near the charging port.
4. Inspect for Residue
After completing the cleaning process, inspect your this accessory and its case for any remaining moisture or residue. Check the mesh areas and charging ports to ensure they are completely dry before proceeding.
5. Dry Completely
After cleaning, gently dry your AirPods with a lint-free cloth, paying attention to the charging ports and mesh areas. Only return the pods to the case once both are entirely dry.
6. Store Properly
Consider storing your AirPods and their case in a clean, dry environment to prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, or moisture between uses. Using a specialized case offer extra protection when not in use, keeping your AirPods safe and clean for longer periods.
7. Regular Maintenance
Make it a habit to clean your AirPods periodically, especially after heavy use or exposure to dirt or sweat. By following these cleaning and maintenance practices, you can keep your AirPods in optimal condition and enjoy crisp, clear sound for years to come.
Don’t Make These Common Cleaning Mistakes
Submerging AirPods in Liquid
Yes, some AirPods are water-resistant. No, they’re not waterproof. Submerging completely in water or cleaning fluid can damage them beyond repair.
Sharp Objects
It may be tempting to use a needle or other small sharp objects to dig out the debris, especially in the mesh area. But doing so can damage your earphones.
Maintaining clean AirPods is essential for both audio quality and personal hygiene, as the accumulation of debris and bacteria can impact sound transmission and lead to potential ear health issues. It is very important to regularly clean to ensure optimal performance and hygiene.
As Mark advises, “Some people may be afraid to clean their AirPods due to fear of damage. But headphones are a prime breeding ground for bacteria and need to be cleaned well and often.”
