How to Clean Your AirPods Case and Earbuds the Right Way

Apple’s AirPods have two main attractions: seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and a notorious knack for getting dirty. If you own a pair of AirPods, you’re likely familiar with their white exterior losing its pristine appearance over time. Take a moment to observe your AirPods now and consider when you last cleaned them.

If the answer is never — it’s time to get to work. AirPods accumulate dirt and grime over time, which can ruin audio quality or cause crackling. The AirPods case can also get scratched if thrown in a backpack or denim pockets. It’s finally time to clean your AirPods and keep them in good shape. Here’s how.

I. How to Clean the AirPods

Cleaning your AirPods can be done in a few simple steps. First, let’s focus on cleaning the AirPods themselves, and then we can move on to the case. The earbuds have different sections that may require cleaning. Here’s how to clean them:

Cleaning the AirPods Speaker Mesh

The most important part of your AirPods is the speaker mesh, responsible for sound output. Here’s how to remove dirt, grime, and ear wax from the speaker grille.

Step 1: Remove silicone ear tips from the AirPods Pro. Step 2: Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol to remove grease stuck on the mesh. Step 3: Gently swab the speaker mesh to remove dirt particles. For heavy ear wax buildup, repeat with fresh cotton swabs. Step 4: Swab the mesh and use a toothbrush to remove smaller particles from the speaker grille. Step 5: If there are still particles on the grille, use a pen or sharp object to remove them. Be careful, as applying too much pressure can damage your AirPods.

Repeat these steps for the other earbud.

If you don’t have cotton swabs, brushes, or a pointed object, consider purchasing an affordable AirPods cleaning kit that includes all the necessary tools.

Cleaning the Silicone Ear Tips

The AirPods Pro has silicone ear tips for a complete seal. Along with the mesh, the ear tips may gather dirt and wax over time. Here’s how to clean them.

Step 1: Remove the silicone ear tips.

Step 2: Rinse them under running water to clean and remove any substances.

Step 3: Tap the ear tips dry with a microfiber cloth.

Put them back onto the earbuds and you’re good to go.

Tip: If your ear tips are damaged or dirty, you can get replacement tips for cheap to give your AirPods a new look and feel.

Cleaning the External Surface

Cleaning the mesh and ear tips is the first step in earbud maintenance. Afterward, you can proceed to polish the external surface, which is a simple process. Here’s how:

1. Dip a microfiber cloth in rubbing alcohol.

2. Gently wipe the outer surface of the earbuds with the cloth, avoiding excessive pressure to prevent abrasions.

Step 3: Pat the earbuds dry with a paper towel. Also, clean the contact points for charging at the bottom of the earbud with a dry cloth.

Note: Avoid using water to clean the earbuds or AirPods case as it can damage the electronics. If rubbing alcohol is unavailable, use a dry, lint-free cloth instead.

Your AirPods will now look and sound better after cleaning.

II. How to Clean the AirPods Case

Now that your earbuds are clean, let’s clean the AirPods case. This may be a bit tricky since the case has deep grooves for the stems. However, we’ll guide you through the process.

The AirPods stems fit into the case. Dust can build up in the cavity and block the charging contacts. To clean the groove, follow these steps:

1. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol.

2. Wipe the inner walls of the cavity.

Step 2: Gently swab the contact pins at the bottom of the case. Avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent damaging the charging mechanism.

Step 3: Insert a twisted paper towel into the cavity to dry out excess alcohol.

Cleaning the External Surface

Cleaning the AirPods case is easy once you’ve cleaned the cavities.

Step 1: Soak a microfiber cloth in rubbing alcohol.

Step 2: Gently wipe the outer surface of the AirPods case with the cloth to avoid abrasions.

Step 3: Pat the case dry with a paper towel.

Now that you’ve cleaned your AirPods and case, it’s important to maintain them properly to avoid damage. Here are some steps to keep your AirPods in good shape.

Use a Case

If you use a case for your smartphone, why not use one for your AirPods too? There are plenty of cases available that serve two purposes — protect your AirPods and give them a fresh new look!

Depending on your AirPods version, here are some of the best cases you can buy:

– AirPods 3 Cases

– AirPods Pro Cases

Store the AirPods With Care

Little things can go a long way in keeping your AirPods clean and safe. Avoid storing them in pockets with keys and other sharp objects. If you keep your AirPods in a backpack, use a separate compartment.

1. Clean your AirPods once every few days or weeks, depending on usage. Remember, excess cleaning is unnecessary.

2. Unfortunately, Apple does not offer a cleaning service for AirPods. You must clean them yourself.

3. AirPods are not serviced or repaired by Apple due to their complex nature. If you encounter any issues, Apple will provide a replacement if the device is under warranty.

4. Apple’s AirPods have a lifespan of approximately 2 years with proper usage, as the battery capacity gradually decreases over time.

Clean AirPods, Clean Sound

To prevent dust and grime buildup, clean your AirPods regularly using the mentioned techniques. This will improve audio quality and extend their lifespan.

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Sumukh Rao is an experienced writer who specializes in editorial refinement and language efficiency. He has a passion for simplifying tech and helping consumers choose the right gadgets through his insightful reviews. Sumukh has contributed to prominent publications like TechPP and XDA-Developers for the past 5 years. When he’s not typing away on his mechanical keyboard, he’s busy advocating for VR Gaming as the future of entertainment.