How to clean your AirPods and improve audio quality?

byLydie RabeJanuary 5, 2022

Since their release, AirPods have been a big hit, especially with iPhone users. But like anything, these gadgets can get dirty over time and need cleaning.

Earwax and dirt accumulated over time can clog the earphone openings. In addition, by handling them every day, the user can leave all kinds of germs harmful to health on the devices. Cleaning the AirPods is therefore necessary, not only for hygiene but also to improve the audio quality.

Cleaning AirPods isn't rocket science, but if you've never done it before, here are some tips you'll probably find useful.

Cleaning the exterior of the AirPods

To clean the exterior of the AirPods, you will need a lint-free cloth. Dampen the cloth with water and wipe the headphones with it. Then take another dry lint-free cloth to dry them.

During this step, make sure that no drop of liquid is introduced into any of the openings.

Removing dirt and earwax

To remove earwax or other types of dirt stuck in the AirPods speaker hole, you should use a fine-tipped tool like toothpick or pin. A dry cotton swab will also do the trick.

With the tool, gently remove the earwax while focusing on the edges of the speaker. Be careful not to puncture the speaker if you use a sharp object.

Clean the silicone tips

If you have AirPods Pro, you will also need to clean the silicone tips that cover the speaker of the headphones. To do this, first remove them by pulling firmly on the base that connects them to the headphones. Then, rinse them with water without adding soap or any other cleaning product. When clean, wipe them with a dry, lint-free cloth.

When the tips are completely dry, put them back in place. To do this, simply align them with the speaker connectors and then push them firmly.

Cleaning the case

You can clean the outside of the case with a dry, lint-free cloth after removing the headphones. If there are stubborn stains, dampen the cloth with a little alcohol and wipe them off with it. Then dry the case while avoiding getting any moisture into the AirPods holders or charging port.

As for the inside of the case, you can use a soft bristle brush or just a soft toothbrush to loosen the dirt inside.

To remove any debris that may be in the charging port, use a soft-bristled brush.