This guide will help you clean your AirPods and case, making them look brand new.
Cleaning your AirPods is essential for eliminating wax buildup, dust, and germs, which can enhance sound quality. After hours of wear and then sitting in a charging case—often in bags, pockets, or on counters—AirPods accumulate dirt and germs. Follow our step-by-step guide to maintain the cleanliness of your AirPods and case.
Considerations Before You Get Started
Before cleaning your AirPods and case, keep these essential tips in mind.
- While AirPods are water resistant, that doesn’t mean they are waterproof—so using a lot of water to clean your AirPods is a definite no-no.
- Be sure that no moisture gets in the openings or charging ports.
- Do not soak, dip, or immerse AirPods in water or cleaning products.
- Avoid using bleach or hydrogen peroxide (or products containing those ingredients).
- Don’t use sharp objects or abrasive materials when cleaning, as they can cause damage.
How Often to Clean AirPods and Their Case
Clean your AirPods and their case at least every 72 hours of use, or ideally after each use. Depending on usage, you might need to clean them less frequently.
Use your judgment: if you notice any buildup, give them a thorough cleaning. Clean them if they haven’t been used in a while, and if you use them daily for extended periods or workouts, clean them after each use.
What You Need:
You really don’t need a wide array of expensive tools or specialized cleaners to effectively maintain your AirPods and keep them in excellent condition. In fact, a handful of basic household items can work perfectly well to handle the cleaning and care that your AirPods require. With just a few simple things you likely already have around the house, you can ensure that your AirPods remain in great shape for all your listening needs.
To Clean AirPods
- Lint-free cloth
- Cotton swabs
- Dry, soft-bristled brush (e.g., a clean, soft toothbrush or anti-static brush)
- 70 percent isopropyl alcohol, alcohol wipes, or non-bleach disinfecting wipes (optional)
To Clean AirPods Case
- 70 percent isopropyl alcohol, alcohol wipes, or non-bleach disinfecting wipes
- Soft-bristled brush or cotton swab
How to Clean AirPods With a Cotton Swab
Step 1: Wipe AirPods
Clean your AirPods with a dry cloth, ensuring all parts—outer surface, earphones, ear tips, and handles—are carefully wiped.
Step 2: Clean the Mesh
Use a dry cotton swab to gently clean the microphone and speaker meshes, ensuring no moisture enters the openings.
Step 3: Brush Away Debris
If dust or wax gets trapped in the AirPod mesh, use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove the debris. Avoid using sharp objects for cleaning your wireless headphones.
Step 4: Remove Chemicals
If chemicals like sunscreen or lotion come into contact with your AirPods, gently wipe them with a lightly dampened cloth. Then, dry them with a soft, clean cloth and avoid using or storing them in their case until they are completely dry.
How to Disinfect AirPods With Alcohol
If your AirPods have gotten dirty, here’s how to clean and disinfect them.
Step 1: Wipe the Exterior
Use a sanitizing wipe, such as 70% isopropyl alcohol, 75% ethyl alcohol, or a non-bleach disinfecting wipe, to clean the exterior. Ensure that no moisture gets into the microphone or speaker mesh, as it can damage the AirPods.
Step 2: Dry Completely
Wipe the AirPods with a soft, clean cloth to ensure all parts, including the earbuds and handle, are dry. Allow them to dry completely before using or storing them in their case.
How to Clean an AirPods Case With Alcohol
Step 1: Wipe the Outside
Wipe the exterior of the charging case with a clean cloth. If it’s particularly dirty, use a cloth dampened with 70 percent isopropyl alcohol, avoiding contact with the charging ports.
Step 2: Clean the Inside
Gently clean the connector with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dirt or dust. Avoid using sharp objects like toothpicks or knives, as they may damage the metal contacts. Instead, use an anti-static brush intended for tech devices or a clean cotton swab.
Step 3: Dry Completely
Air-dry the charging case upside down with the lid open. Do not use or store your AirPods in the case until it is completely dry to avoid damaging the charging contacts.
How to Keep Your AirPods Clean Longer
Instead of waiting for your AirPods to get dirty, perform regular maintenance by wiping them with a clean, dry cloth after each use to prevent wax, sweat, and other irritants from accumulating.
Ensure your AirPods and charging case are completely dry before charging or storing them to avoid damage. Keeping them clean and dry will extend their lifespan and prevent harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Apple charge to clean AirPods?
If you prefer to have your AirPods cleaned professionally, the Apple store will clean them for free. (Confirm with your local store before driving there.) A store employee will give the AirPods and case a general outer cleaning, taking one item off your to-do list.
How do you remove ear wax from AirPods?
While ear wax is completely normal, you probably don’t want it to build up on your AirPods. To clean ear wax from AirPods, follow the steps outlined above—wipe clean and let dry. If you have ear tips, you can remove them from the earphones and rinse them with water (no soap). Remember not to do this with the AirPods themselves or the case.
Is it safe to use hydrogen peroxide to clean AirPods?
Never clean your AirPods with hydrogen peroxide. This harsher, more abrasive cleaner can damage your AirPods, the case, and individual parts. It’s best to stick with alcohol when cleaning your earphones.
