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Learning how to clean earphones is essential for maintaining sound quality, hygiene, and longevity. Earbuds can accumulate dirt, earwax, and other debris over time, affecting audio performance and posing potential health risks.
Today’s article will guide you on how to clean 5 types of earphones!
Let’s figure them out now!
Table of Contents
Needed Tools and Materials
- Soft, lint-free microfiber cloth or cotton swabs
- Mild dish soap or alcohol wipes (70% isopropyl alcohol)
- A small brush (soft-bristled)
- Ziplock bags or a small container
- Compressed air canister (optional)
- A dry toothbrush (optional)
Tips for Precautions
- Before cleaning, unplug the headphones from any audio device and turn them off.
- Never submerge it in water or any other solution. Headsets are not usually water-resistant, and immersion can damage them irreversibly.
- Avoid using sharp objects or excessive force during cleaning, as this could damage the headphones’ delicate components.
Now, we can begin our project for cleaning!
Here are 5 types of earphones as reference.
How to Clean Over-Ear/On-Ear Earphones?
Step 1. Remove Earpads
If your headphones have removable earpads, gently detach them. Refer to the user manual if you’re unsure how to remove them.
Step 2. Clean Earpads
Fill a basin or sink with warm, soapy water (mild dish soap). Dip the ear pads in the water and gently wash them using your fingers. Avoid submerging the rest of the earphones.
Step 3. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the ear pads under running water to remove soap residue. Pat them dry with a soft towel and let them air dry completely before reattaching them.
Step 4. Cleaning Earcup Exteriors
Dampen a soft microfiber cloth with water and mild soap (or a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for electronics). Gently wipe the earcup exteriors, removing any dirt or grime. Dry the earbuds with a separate dry microfiber cloth.
Step 5. Cleaning Earcup Grilles
Use a soft brush or compressed air canister to remove dust and debris from the earcup grilles. Be gentle to avoid damage.
Step 6. Cleaning Headband
If your earphones have a headband, clean it with a damp cloth. Dry it thoroughly afterward.
Step 7. Cable Cleaning
Use a dry toothbrush to remove dust and debris from the cable gently. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure.
How to Clean In-Ear Earphones (Detachable Silicone Tips)?
Step 1. Remove Ear Tips
Gently detach the silicone ear tips from the headphones. Most in-ear headphones come with interchangeable ear tips, allowing you to clean them separately.
Step 2. Clean Ear Tips
Fill a small container with warm and soapy water. Place the ear tips in the container and gently clean them using your fingers. Rinse them under water and pat dry with a soft towel. Ensure they air dry completely before reusing them.
Step 3. Cleaning the Bodies
Dampen a soft microfiber cloth with water and a mild cleaning solution. Wipe the bodies, removing dirt and debris. The cloth should only be slightly damp and avoid letting moisture enter the openings.
Step 4. Cleaning the Nozzles
Use a soft brush or compressed air canister to remove debris from the headset nozzles (the small openings where the sound comes out). Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate components.
How to Clean True Wireless Earphones?
Step 1. Clean the Bodies
Dampen a soft microfiber cloth with water, mild soap, or a cleaning solution specifically designed for electronics. Wipe the bodies, removing any dirt or grime. Dry the earphones with a separate dry microfiber cloth.
Step 2. Cleaning Ear Tips (if detachable)
If your true wireless earphones have detachable ear tips, clean them following the instructions for detachable silicone tips.
Step 3. Cleaning Charging Contacts
For true wireless ones with charging contacts, use a soft brush or cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (70%) to clean the charging contacts. This helps maintain a stable charging connection.
How to Clean Wired/Wireless Earphone Jacks?
- For wired earphones with a 3.5mm audio jack, gently clean the jack’s metal contacts using a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (70%). Let it dry before using.
- For wireless earphones with charging ports, use a soft brush or cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (70%) to clean the charging port. Ensure it is completely dry before charging.
How to Clean Earphone Cases?
Clean the case’s exterior with a soft microfiber cloth, mild soap, or a dedicated electronic cleaning solution for headphones with a storage or charging case. Avoid using water inside the case.
Clean the case’s interior using a dry microfiber cloth or compressed air canister to remove dust and debris.
How Often Should You Clean?
3 times per week cleaning is recommended, especially if you use daily or during intense physical activities.
In-ear earphones should be cleaned more frequently since they come into direct contact with the ear canal.
How to Maintain Earphone Hygiene?
- Avoid sharing with others to prevent the spread of bacteria and infections.
- Replace silicone ear tips regularly, as they can wear out and lose effectiveness over time.
- Store them in a clean and dry place when not in use to prevent dust and dirt accumulation.
Conclusion
Cleaning your earphones regularly is crucial for optimal sound quality, hygiene, and durability. Depending on the type, you can use a combination of mild soap and water, isopropyl alcohol, soft brushes, and microfiber cloth to keep them clean. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be gentle while cleaning to avoid damaging the delicate components.
