How to Clean Earbuds—They’re Teeming With Germs

Understanding how to clean earbuds is crucial since they accumulate germs quickly, much like smartphones. Chances are, you’ve used them multiple times in the past week—whether commuting, exercising, or working.

If the audio quality has declined, it might be due to a buildup of earwax, bacteria, and debris. Don’t worry—here’s a safe and effective method to clean your earbuds without causing damage.

How Frequently Should You Clean Your Earbuds?

For daily users, a quick weekly cleaning is essential to eliminate wax, dust, and dirt. Perform a deep clean monthly, or more frequently during warmer months or after intense workouts.

"If you don’t sanitize your earbuds regularly, they likely harbor significant amounts of dirt and bacteria," states a blog post from Whittier Hospital Center. "When you insert them, they can transfer these contaminants into your ears, potentially increasing earwax accumulation," medical experts caution. "Too much earwax can cause blockages, which may impair your hearing."

Essential Supplies

Steps to Clean Earbuds

• Dishwashing liquid
• Cotton Swab
• Microfiber Cloth

Steps to Disinfect Earbuds and Their Case

• Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
• Alcohol wipes
• Cotton swabs

How to Clean a Fabric Pouch

• Dishwashing liquid and water
• Bowl

Steps to Clean Earbuds

Unlike earplugs, earbuds should never be rinsed under running water or immersed in any liquid, even briefly. Always detach them from devices before cleaning. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Combine ¼ teaspoon of dishwashing liquid with ½ cup of warm water in a small bowl. Dishwashing liquid is preferred over hand soap, as the latter may leave residues from moisturizers or dyes.

Step 2: Detach and Soak the Earbud Tips

Carefully remove the foam or silicone tips by twisting them off the earbuds. Place them in the cleaning solution and let them soak for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Step 3: Wash and Dry the Tips

Take the tips out of the cleaning solution. Gently scrub away dirt or wax using a cotton swab. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and let them air-dry on a lint-free cloth. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching them to the earbuds.

Step 4: Clean the Mesh Cover

Position the earbud with the mesh cover facing downward to prevent particles from entering the housing. Use a soft, dry toothbrush to carefully remove any visible wax buildup.

Steps to Disinfect Earbuds

If your earbuds haven’t been cleaned in a while or appear dirty, disinfecting them is essential.

Step 1: Clean the Tips Using Alcohol

For silicone tips, disinfect them by gently wiping with an alcohol wipe or a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Let them air-dry completely. Foam tips, due to their porous structure, cannot be disinfected, but cleaning them with the detergent and water solution will effectively remove dirt.

Step 2: Clean the Mesh Screen Using Alcohol

Dampen a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and carefully clean the mesh screen. Ensure the swab is only lightly damp to avoid moisture seeping into the housing. Let the screen air-dry for about an hour.

Step 3: Clean the Housing and Cord Using Alcohol

Gently wipe the outer housing of the earbuds and the cords (if applicable) with an alcohol wipe or cotton swab. This will effectively clean and disinfect the surfaces.

Step 4: Allow to Dry

Let the earbuds air-dry completely before use. Avoid using hot air, such as from a hair dryer, as it can damage the earbuds. To speed up drying, place them in a small container with a moisture-absorbing packet.

Steps to Clean a Silicone or Plastic Earbud Case

Step 1: Wipe Using a Cloth or Cotton Swab

Take out the earbuds and clean the exterior and interior of the case with a dry microfiber cloth. Use a dry cotton swab to remove lint and dust from tight spaces and the charging port.

Step 2: Clean With Alcohol

If the case remains dirty, lightly moisten a cloth or cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and wipe the inside and outside thoroughly. Alcohol wipes can also be used, but ensure they are only slightly damp, not soaking. For charging cases, avoid letting moisture contact the electronic parts.

Step 3: Let It Dry

Allow the case to air-dry for about an hour before placing the earbuds back inside. (Ensure it is not overly damp.)

Steps to Clean a Fabric Earbud Pouch

Step 1: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Fill a bowl with warm water from the faucet. Add a few drops of dishwashing liquid and mix thoroughly.

Step 2: Soak the Pouch

Fully open the earbud pouch and immerse it in the soapy solution. Let it soak for a minimum of 10 minutes.

Step 3: Clean the Fabric

Gently rub the fabric with your fingers to work the cleaning solution into the material, removing dust, lint, or dirt. Rinse thoroughly and let the pouch air-dry completely.

Tips to Maintain Clean Earbuds for Longer Periods

• Always use a protective case. Storing earbuds in backpacks, purses, or pockets exposes them to dust, lint, and bacteria.
• If your earbuds get wet, let them air-dry away from direct heat, even if they are water-resistant.
• Avoid placing earbuds in sweaty gym clothes or sports bras during workouts. Instead, store them in a case or a sealable plastic bag when not in use.
• Keep the charging case closed while the earbuds are charging to prevent dust from settling on them or inside the case.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does hydrogen peroxide dissolve ear wax in earbuds?

  While hydrogen peroxide can soften and dissolve ear wax in your ears, it is not safe for earbuds. It may damage or discolor them. Instead, use rubbing alcohol sparingly to clean and disinfect your earbuds effectively.

• Is there an earbud cleaning kit I can buy?

  Yes. While dish detergent and rubbing alcohol are effective, you can also purchase a cleaning kit for your earbuds. These kits are designed to remove earwax more efficiently and provide a deeper clean. Investing in a kit may also motivate you to clean your earbuds more regularly.

• Can I use compressed air to clean my earbuds like I do with my computer keyboard?

  No. Compressed air can damage delicate components of your earbuds and case, such as the speaker mesh and charging port, due to its high pressure.