The Ultimate Guide to Clean Your Over-ear Headphones Properly

Over-ear headphones have become the go-to choice for many music lovers, gamers, and professionals. They offer superior sound quality and comfort compared to earbuds or on-ear headphones. However, as with any electronic device, they require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

In this guide, we will take you through a step-by-step process on how to clean your over-ear headphones properly.

How to Properly Clean Headphones and Earbuds

No matter the kind of expensive headphones you have, the materials needed for cleaning them are generally the same. Below are the necessary materials for cleaning your headphones:

• Q-Tips
• Soft-bristled toothbrush
• Lint-free cloth or paper towel
• Create a soapy solution by mixing one part of soap with two parts of warm water.
• Isopropyl alcohol, preferably with a concentration of at least 70%.
• Wooden toothpick or needle
• Gloves
• Distilled water (optional)

The Importance of Cleaning over-ear Headphones and Earbuds

Before we dive into the cleaning process, it is essential to understand why it is necessary to regularly clean your headphones. Here are a few reasons:

• Hygiene: Our ears produce wax and oils that can accumulate on our headphones over time. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria, fungi, and ear infections.
• Improved sound quality: Earwax and debris accumulation can muffle the sound and affect the overall audio experience. Regular cleaning ensures you get the best sound quality possible.
• Prevent damage: Sweat and dirt can corrode delicate electronic components, shortening the lifespan of your headphones. Cleaning helps prevent this damage and keeps your headphones functioning for longer.
• Better hygiene overall: Cleaning your headphones is just one part of good personal hygiene, contributing to your overall well-being.

Now that we have established the importance of cleaning your over-ear wireless headphones let’s dive into the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Over-Ear Headphones

Regularly cleaning your headset not only enhances their comfort but also extends their lifespan. Follow these steps to keep them in top condition:

• Remove the ear pads: Start by removing the earpads from your headphones. Some models may have detachable foam ear pads, while others may require twisting or pulling to remove them.
• Brush off dust and debris: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush off any dust or debris on the surface of your headphones earpads. Be careful not to press too hard and damage any delicate parts.
• Damp cloth cleaning:
  • Ear cups and headband: Dampen your microfiber cloth with warm water (wring it out well to avoid dripping). Wipe down the ear cups and headband, avoiding the speaker grilles and electrical connectors. For extra cleaning, add a mild dish soap solution to the water.
  • Mesh grilles: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a gentle touch to remove dust and debris from the mesh grilles. Avoid pushing anything through the holes.
  • Cable: Gently wipe down the cable with a damp cloth.

Note: To minimize potential damage to the material of the ear pads, it is advisable to use water instead of other cleaning agents like alcohol. Alcohol can be harsh and gradually degrade the thin leather or velour that covers the ear pads.

• Disinfection (optional): If you are concerned about bacteria or germs, you can disinfect your headphones by lightly spraying them with isopropyl alcohol. Be sure to use a solution that is at least 70% alcohol.

Note: It is essential to avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia as they can damage the material and affect the sound quality of your headphones.

• Cleaning the speaker grilles: Use a dry Q-tip or toothpick to carefully remove any debris stuck in the speaker grilles.
• Dry and reattach earpads: Once you have cleaned all the components, leave them to air dry completely before reattaching the earpads.

Note: Do not use heat or place your headphones near a direct source of heat as it can damage the material and affect the sound quality.

• Clean the cable connector: Use a Q-tip or soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the cable connector. If there is any debris stuck inside, use a needle or wooden toothpick to gently remove it.
• Replace earpads (if necessary): If your earpads are damaged or worn out, it is advisable to replace them with new ones. This will not only improve your comfort but also ensure the best sound quality.
• Clean storage case (if applicable): If you have a storage case for your headphones, it’s essential to keep it clean as well. Use a dampened cloth or disinfectant wipe to wipe down the exterior and interior of the case.

How to Properly Clean Your Wired Earbuds

Cleaning your earbuds is a bit different from dirty headphones. Here’s how to do it properly:

• Remove the eartips: Start by removing the ear tips from the earbuds.
• Brush off dust and debris: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush off any dust or debris on the surface of the ear buds, from mesh and grills. Be careful not to press too hard and damage any delicate parts.
• Damp cloth cleaning:
  • Earbuds: Dampen your microfiber cloth with warm water (wring it out well to avoid dripping). Wipe it down, avoiding the speaker grilles and electrical connectors. For extra cleaning, add a mild dish soap solution to the water.
  • Wire: Wipe down the wire with a dampened cloth.
• Note: To minimize potential damage to the material of the eartips, it is advisable to use water instead of other cleaning agents like alcohol.
  • Dry and reattach ear tips: Once you have cleaned all the components, leave them to air dry completely before reattaching the eartips.
  Note: Do not use heat or place your wiired buds near a direct source of heat like hairdyer as it can damage the material and affect the sound quality. Regularly cleaning your headphones and earbuds not only ensures optimal sound quality but also maintains good hygiene. It may seem like a tedious task, but it is worth the effort to keep your headphones in top condition. How to Properly Clean Your True Wireless Earbuds True wireless earbuds have a slightly different design and require extra care while cleaning. Follow these steps to properly clean your TWS ear buds:

• Remove eartips and outer covers: Start by removing the eartips from the in-ear headphones and then gently remove any outer covers or attachments.
• Brush off dust and debris: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush off any dust or grime on the surface of the earbuds and from mesh grilles. Be careful not to press too hard and damage any delicate parts.
• Damp cloth cleaning:
  • Earbuds: Dampen your microfiber cloth with warm water (wring it out well to avoid dripping). Wipe down the in-ear headphones, avoiding the speaker grilles and electrical connectors. For extra cleaning, add a mild dish soap solution to the water.
  • Charging Case: Use a disinfectant wipe or dampened cloth to clean the charging case, both inside and outside.
• Dry and reattach eartips and covers: Once you have cleaned all the components, leave them to air dry completely before reattaching the eartips and outer covers.

Note: Do not use heat or place your TWS earphones near a direct source of heat like a hair dryer as it can damage the material and affect the sound quality.

• Dry and store properly: Once your earbuds are completely dry, store them in a clean and dry case or pouch. Avoid storing them in damp or humid places.

Regularly cleaning your TWS earphones will not only ensure optimal sound quality but also maintain good hygiene. It may seem like a tedious task, but it is worth the effort to keep your earbuds in top condition.

Clean Your True Wireless Earbuds Charging Case

The accumulation of dirt can obstruct the charging pins within your earbuds’ case, leading to potential charging and connectivity issues with your TWS earbuds and device. Regularly cleaning your charging case helps prevent these problems.

Here’s a simple guide on how to properly clean your charging case and maintain optimal functionality:

• Unplug the charging case: Before cleaning, make sure to unplug your charging case from any power sources.
• Brush off dust and debris: Use a soft-bristled teeth cleaner to gently brush off any dust or debris on the exterior. Be careful not to press too hard and damage any delicate parts.
• Damp cotton swab cleaning: Lightly dampen a Q-Tip and use it to remove dirt from inside the case.
• wooden toothpick: Use a wooden toothpick to carefully remove any accumulation around the charging pins.
• Dry with cloth: Use a clean, dry cloth or tissue to wipe down the exterior and interior of the case. Make sure it is completely dry before use.

It is essential to regularly clean your true wireless earbuds’ charging case to prevent potential damage and ensure optimal functionality. Additionally, make sure to store it in a clean and dry place when not in use. So, make sure to give your earbuds and charging case the attention they need for long-lasting performance.

Cleaning Apple AirPods and AirPods Pro

Apple AirPods are one of the most popular TWS earbuds on the market. As with any device, it’s essential to know how to properly clean them for optimal performance.

• Remove eartips: For AirPods Pro, remove the ear tips by twisting them off and pulling them away from the stem. For regular AirPods, gently twist and pull the silicone cover off the earbuds.
• Damp cloth cleaning:
  • Earbuds: Dampen your microfiber cloth with warm water (wring it out well to avoid dripping). Wipe down the earbuds, avoiding the speaker grilles and electrical connectors. For extra cleaning, add a mild dish soap solution to the water.
  • Eartips: Use warm, soapy water to clean the ear tips thoroughly. Rinse and dry them before reattaching.
• Dry with cloth: Use a clean, dry cloth or tissue to wipe down the earbuds and eartips. Make sure they are completely dry before reattaching the ear tips.
• Clean the case: Use a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe to clean the exterior and interior of the charging case. Make sure it is completely dry before using it again.

Properly cleaning your AirPods or AirPods Pro will not only maintain their sound quality but also extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance can prevent any accumulation or damage that may occur over time. It’s essential to clean them regularly, especially if you use them daily.

Conclusion

Cleaning your earbuds or headphones regularly is crucial for maintaining good hygiene and optimal sound performance. Follow the proper cleaning techniques outlined in this guide to ensure your pair of headphones, AirPods and their charging case stay in top condition. With regular maintenance, you can enjoy your earbuds for a long time without any issues. So don’t forget to give them the TLC (tender loving care) they need! 

F.A.Q

Is it safe to clean headphones using hydrogen peroxide?

It is not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide for cleaning your headphones as it can damage the material and affect the sound quality. It’s best to stick to mild soap solutions or disinfectant wipes.

Can earwax damage headphones and earbuds?

Yes, ear wax can build up and affect the sound quality of your earbuds. It’s essential to clean them regularly to prevent any damage.

How often should I clean my earbuds?

It is recommended to clean your true wireless earbuds at least once a week, especially if you use them daily. However, if you notice any buildup or decrease in sound quality, clean them more frequently.