Learn these tips for cleaning dirty earbuds as well as the case they come in.

Learning how to clean earbuds is vital because, like smartphones, theyget germy fast.

Don’t skip a beat.

cleaning earbuds

Carson DowningProps Stylist: Lexi Juhl

Here’s how to clean your earbuds the right way, without damaging them.

“Excessive wax build-up leads to impacted ear wax that can affect your hearing.”

Always disconnect them from any rig before cleaning.

cleaning earbuds

Dishwashing liquid is preferably to hand soap, which could leave a residue from added moisturizers or colors.

Add them to the cleaning solution and allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Clean and Dry the Tips

Remove the tips from the cleaning solution.

cleaning earbuds

Use a cotton swab to wipe away any loose dirt or wax.

Rinse well with warm water and allow them to air-dry on a lint-free cloth.

They must be fully dry before placing them back on the earbuds.

cleaning earbuds

Use a soft, dry toothbrush to gently brush away any visible wax.

Allow them to air-dry.

Be sure the swab is only slightly damp because you do not want moisture to enter the housing.

cleaning earbuds

Allow the screen to air-dry for an hour.

This will clean and disinfect the surface.

Step 4: Dry

Allow them to air-dry before using.

cleaning earbuds

Do not dry with hot air (as from a hair dryer), which can damage the earbuds.

you could also use an alcohol wipe as long as it’s merely damp, not wet.

If the case is used for charging, take care not to get moisture on the electronic components.

cleaning earbuds

Carson DowningProps Stylist: Lexi Juhl

Step 3: Dry

Allow it to air-dry for an hour or so before replacing the earbuds.

(Again, they should not be too wet.)

Add a few drops of dishwashing liquid and mix.

cleaning earbuds

Allow it to soak for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Remove Soil

Use your fingers to gently irritate the fabric.

This will work the solution into the fabric to remove any dust, lint, or soil.

cleaning earbuds

Rinse well and allow the pouch to air-dry.

Hydrogen peroxide can damage or discolor your earbuds.

Instead, use rubbing alcohol.

cleaning earbuds

An earbud cleaning kit can be more effective at removing earwax and may give your earbuds a deeper clean.

Compressed air directs a high pressure of air at delicate parts of your earbuds and case.

This can damage some of these parts, especially fragile ones like the speaker mesh and charging port.

cleaning earbuds

cleaning earbuds

cleaning earbuds

cleaning earbuds

cleaning earbuds

cleaning earbuds

cleaning earbuds