Keeping Your AirPods Sparkling Clean: A Comprehensive Guide
Your AirPods, those sleek white earbuds, might start looking less than pristine after some use. The main culprit? Earwax. But dirt, sweat, and other grime can also accumulate, especially if you use them during workouts or outdoor activities. Regular cleaning not only improves the aesthetics of your AirPods but also ensures optimal sound quality. Let’s delve into the best ways to clean your Apple AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max.
Apple’s Recommended Cleaning Methods
Apple provides specific cleaning instructions for its various AirPods models. Their advice generally emphasizes gentle cleaning to prevent damage to the delicate components.
General Cleaning for AirPods and AirPods Pro:
- What to use: A slightly damp (not wet!) cloth for the exterior surfaces. A soft, dry, lint-free cloth for wiping and drying. A dry cotton swab and a soft-bristled brush for cleaning the speaker and microphone meshes.
- What to avoid: Soaps, shampoos, solvents, and submerging your AirPods in water. If soap accidentally gets on them, wipe with a damp cloth and let them dry.
AirPods Pro Ear Tip Cleaning:
- Apple states that the ear tips of AirPods Pro can be rinsed with plain water. Avoid using soap or other cleaning agents. After rinsing, wipe them with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth and allow them to dry completely before putting them back on your AirPods.
AirPods Max Cleaning:
- The cleaning methods for AirPods Max are similar, but extra caution is needed to avoid staining or damage from oily substances. Avoid contact with soaps, perfumes, solvents, detergents, insect repellents, sunscreens, and hair dye. If any of these substances come into contact with your AirPods Max, wipe them immediately with a cloth slightly dampened with water, and then dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Cleaning the AirPods Max Ear Cushions and Headband:
For the ear cushions and headband, especially if you use them during sweaty workouts, Apple recommends this process:
- Prepare a solution: Mix 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of liquid laundry detergent with 1 cup (250 mL) of water.
- Remove the ear cushions.
- Dip a cloth into the cleaning solution and gently wipe the ear cushions and headband. Hold the AirPods Max upside down to prevent the solution from dripping into the electronics.
- Wipe with a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth.
- Lay them flat to air dry for at least 24 hours before reattaching the cushions.
Disinfection:
To kill germs, Apple suggests gently wiping the exterior surfaces (avoiding the speaker mesh) with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or a Clorox disinfecting wipe. Make sure the wipe is not overly saturated to prevent moisture from entering the AirPods’ openings. Remember: Never submerge your AirPods in any cleaning solution.
Alternative Cleaning Methods: A CNET Perspective
While Apple provides safe and effective methods, sometimes additional tools might be needed for stubborn dirt and wax. One journalist tested Apple’s methods and found that a cotton swab and toothbrush weren’t effective for deep cleaning. They found a more effective two-part solution that involves:
1. Fun-Tak: This reusable adhesive putty is great for grabbing small bits of wax and debris from hard-to-reach areas. Simply warm a small piece of Fun-Tak by kneading it, then gently press it against the speaker mesh several times. The Fun-Tak will adhere to the wax and dirt, removing it from the AirPods.
2. Wooden Toothpick: For those stubborn bits that the Fun-Tak misses, a wooden toothpick offers a safe and precise tool to gently remove stubborn particles. Its pointed tip is effective and safer than sharp metal objects that could scratch the delicate components, unlike using something like a straightened paperclip. This approach is far less likely to damage the sensitive mesh covering the speakers.
Maintaining Your AirPods: Prevention is Key
While cleaning is necessary, preventing dirt buildup is more efficient. Simple steps can make a big difference:
- Regular Wiping: Wipe down your AirPods after each use with a dry cloth. This removes surface dirt and prevents accumulation.
- Ear Tip Care: Regularly clean your AirPods Pro ear tips. This not only improves hygiene, but also maintains a proper seal crucial for superior sound quality.
- Storage: Always store your AirPods in their case when not in use. This helps keep them protected from dust and debris.
- Avoid Sweaty Environments: Try to avoid using the AirPods during strenuous activities where they are exposed to a lot of sweat. Or at least clean them thoroughly after each workout.
By combining Apple’s recommended cleaning methods with alternative, safer techniques and adopting preventative measures, you can maintain your AirPods’ clean look and optimal audio performance for a long time. Remember, gentle cleaning is key to prolong the lifespan of your earbuds.
