The Proper Way to Clean Your Earbuds and Headphones

Do you ensure your earbuds and headphones are clean regularly? Simply scraping off earwax using a fingernail doesn’t count as proper cleaning. Regularly maintaining your audio devices not only enhances sound quality but also helps prevent damage to both your ears and the devices themselves.

The condition inside your earbuds' charging case might be kept secret, but that doesn’t mean it should be neglected. Beyond just removing visible wax, a thorough cleaning, especially after sweaty sessions, is essential. Allowing dirt and debris to accumulate could impair performance and potentially damage internal components in the long run.

Steps for Cleaning Earbuds

To clean your earbuds adequately, you'll need some mild soap, warm water, a microfiber cloth, a soft-bristle toothbrush or cotton swab, and a dry paper towel.

1. Target Hard Plastics and Silicone

Begin by carefully removing your earbuds from their case. Prepare a cleaning solution in a cup by combining a few drops of mild soap or micellar water with water. Use a dampened microfiber cloth, toothbrush, or cotton swab to gently cleanse the earbuds' mesh coverings, solid plastics, and silicone tips.

Rinse away any leftover soap by cleaning the tools and repeating the process. Dry the earbuds gently with a paper towel and let them sit to remove all moisture before replacing them in the case. Check the earbuds' protection rating—IPX4 or IP54 ensures they only resist splashes—not full water immersion, thus they should never be submerged.

2. Refresh the Charging Case

With earbuds out of the case, look for loose particles at the bottom. Use a dry toothbrush or cotton swab to dislodge dirt, and consider slightly wetting the tool for more thorough cleaning, avoiding the connectors.

Make sure the case is completely dry before placing the earbuds back inside.

Steps for Cleaning Over-Ear Headphones

For cleaning regular headphones, have ready mild soap, warm water, a microfiber cloth, and a paper towel or soft-bristle brush.

1. Detach Ear Pads (if applicable)

Many headphones feature magnetic ear pads for easy removal, but if they're secured tightly, attempt removing them carefully to avoid damage. Liquid should never contact the headphone internals.

2. Clean Hard Surfaces and Leather Materials

Moisten your cleaning cloth with soapy water but be careful with water exposure as most headphones lack formal water resistance. Steer clear from allowing moisture inside the earcups and focus on wiping the ear pads and headband. Ensure all pieces are dry before putting them back together or using the headphones.

Common Questions

Why Maintain Cleanliness for Ear Devices?

Your ears can naturally clean themselves to an extent. However, keeping your ear devices free from debris is vital to avoid introducing dirt and bacteria into the ear canal.

Earbuds can be a breeding ground for bacteria, particularly if used daily. Dr. Audiologist from the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that consistent, simple cleaning helps prevent bacteria from flourishing on the device.

In-canal earbuds can foster warm, moist environments, which could lead to bacteria growth and potential irritation. Reusing earwax inadvertently adds to this issue.

While over-ear headphones don't touch the inside of the ear, they can accumulate oils, sweat, and cosmetic products, possibly causing skin irritation when left unchecked.

Dr. Otolaryngology Specialist notes that ear devices can contact various surfaces and substances, contributing to irritation and build-up of germs. Regular cleaning ensures both the audio quality and your comfort.