When researching for the best instructions for How to Clean AirPods you will find an array of information. It is essential that you not only have the step-by-step guide, but also have the correct supplies to ensure adequate cleaning is performed.
Table of Contents
Essential Supplies for AirPods Cleaning
- A soft bristled brush is essential for carefully cleaning the speaker mesh of the AirPods.
- Dry cotton swabs are critical for non-invasive cleaning of intricate areas, preventing moisture from causing damage.
- A soft, dry, lint-free cloth is recommended for general wiping of the AirPods’ external surfaces to remove debris and oil.
- 70-percent isopropyl alcohol wipes, or a similar disinfectant, are advised for sterilising the AirPods without harming internal components.
Step-by-Step Guide for How to Clean Airpods
- We find removing wax buildup, dust, and germs from AirPods is vital to maintaining sound quality and hygiene.
- For general cleaning, gently wipe the external surface of the AirPods with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to remove any debris.
- Use a dry cotton swab to carefully clean the speaker meshes, ensuring debris is removed without damaging the delicate components. Be sure not to press too firmly on the mess areas as these are often delicate.
Exterior Care
- Avoid getting liquid in the openings of the AirPods to prevent damage when cleaning their exterior.
- Use a soft, dry lint-free cloth to gently wipe the exterior surfaces of the AirPods.
- Ensure to remove all dirt and debris by wiping in a direction away from the openings.
Mesh Maintenance
- When cleaning the AirPods mesh, using a dry cotton swab or a soft-bristled brush is recommended to avoid liquid contact and to gently remove debris.
- For persistent ear wax or buildup on the mesh, start by gently using a dry cotton swab around the edges before employing a soft bristled toothbrush to dislodge the accumulated debris.
- Ensure no sharp objects or abrasive materials are used on the speaker and microphone meshes, as these can damage the delicate mesh fabric.
Ear Tips Perfection
- Ear tips of AirPods Pro should be carefully removed for cleaning purposes.
- Clean the ear tips by rinsing them with water only, avoiding soap or other household cleaners to prevent damage.
- After rinsing, wipe the ear tips with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth and ensure they are completely dried before reattaching them to the AirPods Pro.

Advanced Cleaning Techniques for Stubborn Buildup
- To disinfect the exterior surfaces of AirPods, use a wipe that contains 70% isopropyl alcohol, 75% ethyl alcohol, or, for example, Clorox Disinfecting Wipes.
- If AirPods come into contact with staining agents such as lotions or perfumes, clean them using a cloth slightly dampened with water and then dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
- Avoid applying any disinfectant wipes directly on the AirPods speaker mesh to prevent damaging the delicate components.
- Using 70% isopropyl alcohol as a disinfectant for grimy AirPods can help maintain cleanliness but ensure that it does not come into contact with the speaker mesh.
Drying and Reassembling Your AirPods
- To dry out AirPods that have been affected by liquid, several methods can be used including letting them air-dry overnight, placing them in a warm environment with desiccants like uncooked rice or silica gel, or using a hairdryer on a low heat setting.
- Before reassembling the AirPods for use, ensure every part including the earphones and the bottom of the handle is dry by wiping them with a soft, clean cloth and verifying there’s no remaining moisture.
- Always allow the AirPods to dry completely after cleaning before placing them in the case or connecting to a charger, as residual moisture can cause damage and reduce the lifespan of the devices.
Maintaining Your AirPods Case
- Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of the AirPods case; if it is notably dirty, isopropyl alcohol may be used cautiously.
- Avoid using abrasive materials that could damage the charging case’s outer surface.
- Ensure that no liquid gets into the charging ports during the cleaning process to prevent damage.
- Do not insert any objects into the charging ports to avoid damaging the metal contacts; gently use a clean, soft-bristled brush if debris needs to be removed.
Preventative Measures to Keep AirPods Clean
- Regularly wiping down AirPods with a clean, dry cloth after use helps prevent buildup of wax, sweat, and other potential irritants.
- To maintain cleanliness and functionality, ensure AirPods are thoroughly dry before charging or storing them.
- After exposure to substances like sweat, soap, or lotions, it’s recommended to clean both the AirPods and the user’s skin to reduce the risk of irritation.
Troubleshooting Common Cleaning Issues
- Avoid moisture in any openings and never submerge AirPods during the cleaning process.
- Submerge AirPods in 93% isopropyl alcohol to displace water if they have been inadvertently exposed to moisture, aiding the drying process.
- Replace only the damaged AirPod if necessary, ensuring the model and side match.
- Reset AirPods by holding the case’s back button for a full minute and reconnect to the device to fix sound issues resulting from liquid exposure.
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