How to Clean Your AirPods – Your AirPods are essential daily companions, but over time, they accumulate dirt, earwax, and bacteria, potentially affecting performance and even causing irritation. Whether you own AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max, keeping them clean ensures better sound quality and hygiene.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely clean your AirPods without damaging them.

Preventing Dirt and Damage

Before diving into cleaning methods, take preventative measures to keep your AirPods cleaner for longer:
✅ Use a strap – A third-party strap can prevent drops and reduce exposure to dust and grime.
✅ Store them properly – Always place your AirPods in their case when not in use.
✅ Avoid pockets – Loose pockets collect lint and dust that can clog the speaker mesh.

What You Need to Clean Your AirPods

To keep your AirPods spotless, use these safe cleaning materials:
✔️ Lint-free cloth
✔️ Cotton swabs
✔️ Distilled water
✔️ Micellar water (for 3rd & 4th Gen AirPods)
✔️ Soft-bristle brush (a children’s toothbrush works well)
✔️ 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes or 75% ethyl alcohol wipes (for exterior surfaces only)

Avoid these products:
❌ Bleach
❌ Hydrogen peroxide
❌ Compressed air (can damage delicate parts)

How to Clean Your AirPods: A Step-by-Step Guide

1️⃣ General Cleaning for AirPods & AirPods Pro

If your AirPods have collected dust, sweat, or minor debris, follow these steps:
Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water to wipe the exterior.
Dry them with another lint-free cloth and let them air-dry before using.
If earwax is stuck in the speaker mesh, hold the AirPods with the mesh facing downward and gently clean with a dry cotton swab.

2️⃣ Deep Cleaning for 3rd & 4th Gen AirPods

Apple recommends a special cleaning process for the mesh on 3rd and 4th generation AirPods:
1️⃣ Pour micellar water into a cup and dip a soft-bristle brush into it.
2️⃣ Lightly brush the mesh in circular motions for 15 seconds.
3️⃣ Blot the mesh onto a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Repeat three times.
4️⃣ Rinse the brush in distilled water and repeat the circular cleaning for 15 more seconds.
5️⃣ Blot the mesh again and let the AirPods dry for at least two hours before using or storing them.

Tip: Ensure the micellar water contains PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, as recommended by Apple.

3️⃣ Cleaning AirPods Pro Ear Tips

Since AirPods Pro have silicone ear tips, they require extra care:
Remove the ear tips and rinse them under warm water.
If debris remains, use a dampened cotton swab to remove it.
Dry completely before reattaching them to avoid moisture damage.

4️⃣ Cleaning the AirPods Case

Since your AirPods sit in the case most of the time, keeping it clean is just as important:
✅ Wipe the exterior with a lint-free cloth (dampened with water or alcohol wipes).
✅ For tougher grime, use a soft brush to remove dust from the charging port.
✅ Let the case dry upside down before placing your AirPods back inside.

Final Tips for Long-Term AirPods Care

✅ Clean your AirPods weekly to prevent buildup.
✅ Avoid charging them immediately after workouts to prevent sweat damage.
✅ Store them in a clean, dry place when not in use.

How to Clean Your AirPods? By following these steps, you can keep your AirPods sounding great and free from bacteria. ✨