AirPods are your best buds, so look after them! To keep them sounding great, regular cleaning is essential. But be gentle please. Here are a few top tips to help you prevent any damage, and make your AirPods last longer.
Cleaning AirPods
To clean your AirPods and keep them hygienic, we recommend you follow these steps:
1. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior of your AirPods and charging case.
2. Remove the ear tips and clean them separately with a damp cloth. Reattach them when they’re completely dry.
3. Check for debris in the speaker meshes. Gently brush with a clean, soft brush to remove any foreign objects.
4. Clean the charging port with a small, dry brush or compressed air. Be gentle to avoid damage.
Top tip: Never use liquids directly on AirPods. You can use a damp cloth, but make sure no moisture gets into any openings.
Disinfecting AirPods
Disinfecting your iPods helps rid them of germs and bacteria. It also reduces the risk of transferring pathogens, especially if the AirPods are frequently handled or shared. Here’s how to disinfect your AirPods:
1. Gently wipe the exterior surfaces with a sanitizing wipe (like a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe).
2. If you want to clean AirPods Pro with removable ear tips, detach them and soak in a mixture of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water. Let the ear tips air dry completely before reattaching.
3. For non-Pro models, use a small, soft brush dipped in the alcohol solution to clean speaker meshes.
4. After cleaning, leave your AirPods and case in an open, well-ventilated area to ensure complete drying.
Safety tip: Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals, as they could seriously damage your AirPods.
How to clean an AirPods case
Sometimes you’ll just want to clean the AirPods case itself. Here’s how to do just that:
1. Use a soft, damp, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior of the case – but make sure you avoid the ports.
2. Gently clean the charging port with a dry cotton swab.
3. For stubborn grime, use a cotton swab slightly dampened with a mix of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water.
4. Make sure the case is completely dry before putting your AirPods back inside it.
Safety tip: Avoid using liquids directly on the case and never submerge it in water.
FAQs
How often should I clean my AirPods?
It's a good practice to clean your AirPods at least every couple of weeks, to prevent any buildup of dirt, earwax, or debris. Head to the top of this article to find out how.
Can you wash your AirPods?
You can clean them using the method we mention above, but no – please don’t actually wash them. It's not recommended, because AirPods aren’t water-resistant. Stick to a slightly damp cloth. Nothing wetter.
Can earwax affect AirPods?
Earwax can affect the performance of AirPods, but it's unlikely to completely ruin them. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent any issues related to earwax build-up in the earbuds. So, if you notice decreased sound quality or connection issues, cleaning earwax from the earbuds and charging case could help.
How do I clean earwax out of AirPods?
To clean earwax from AirPods, use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any visible wax. You can also use a Q-tip, but be careful not to damage the speaker grilles or push wax any further into your AirPods. It’s a delicate job.
How do I keep AirPods hygienic?
If you’re keen on keeping your AirPods hygenic, here’s a top tip - don’t share them with anyone! You should also clean them after any bout of physical activity or any time they’re exposed to moisture. Oh, and store them in their case when not in use, to prevent any dust or dirt getting onto them.
Need any more help?
We’ve got lots more advice to help you get the most out of your AirPods, so check out our handy articles on how to charge Apple AirPods and how to find lost AirPods, and are AirPods waterproof? If you want to speak to someone, pop into your nearest Currys and chat to one of our expert colleagues. They’re always happy to help.
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