Cleaning

How to clean earbuds

cleaning earbuds

Small, white, and stylish: Earbuds are wireless earphones that are the basic must-have for almost every cell phone or mobile phones owner. Unfortunately, cell phones can get dirty easily as can the earbuds. Can you clean earbuds? Yes, you can. We explain how to clean earbuds properly.

Cleaning earbuds – here’s what you need

To clean your earbuds and earbuds case properly, you will need a soft, lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, as well as cotton swabs and a brush with soft bristles. Because  earphones are not waterproof, use water sparingly, if at all. Remove stubborn stains with high-percentage alcohol –this pure alcohol will get the earbuds sparkly clean again. Keep rough cloths, abrasive cleaners, and sharp objects away from your earbuds, as they can scratch them.

Cleaning earbuds - the housing and the earpieces

You can wipe the housing regularly with a soft cloth – either dry or slightly damp. It’s important that moisture doesn't get into the cracks or inside, and that the earbuds are completely dry before you use them again. You will often encounter earwax when cleaning earbuds since they spend so much time in your ear. To get rid of this earwax, you can use isopropyl alcohol, which is you can get from your pharmacy or drugstore. Again, only apply a few drops to the cloth when cleaning the earbuds and ensure that the isopropyl alcohol is dried or wiped dry before using earbuds.

The optional earbuds can easily be removed and rinsed under clean water. Do not use soap or other cleaning agents to clean these small parts. After rinsing, it is also important that the earbuds have thoroughly dried.

Cleaning earbuds – the mesh

The mesh covering the speakers is particularly susceptible to dirt. To clean the earbuds’ mesh, first use a soft brush. You can use it to gently brush away loose dirt and earwax. Avoid using too much pressure, or you will push the dirt through the mesh and right into the earphone. The second step is to use cotton swabs moistened with a little alcohol. Gently sweep them over the mesh to remove any dirt that’s gotten stuck. If the alcohol evaporates quickly, there is no need to wipe with a cloth.

Cleaning earbuds– the case

You can also clean the earbuds’ case with a soft cloth and a bit of alcohol. Ensure that you wipe the case gently with the cloth.

What you need to know when cleaning earbuds

In addition to earwax, there are so many other substances that can damage the surface of your  earphones. Therefore, try to avoid contact with these substances as best you can. If that’s not possible, clean the earbuds thoroughly and regularly. Here are some substances that can stain or damage your earbuds:

  • Soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and hair dyes
  • Lotions, creams, and perfumes
  • Cleaning agents
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen products
  • Oils, acids, and acidic foods

If you wear your earbuds while exercising, sweat can also collect on the surface and in the cracks. The moisture can be problematic as well as the contents that can be found in sweat. So always wipe your earbuds thoroughly after exercising and let them dry before using them again.