Earbuds can get gross when dead skin cells, sebum, ear wax, or facial products cling to the parts that touch the skin. These sticky headphones in turn trap more dirt and grime from the surroundings. This can affect the sound quality of earbuds and cause distortion. We have discussed some useful tips for cleaning your earbuds.
Tools You Need
Before beginning the process of cleaning, keep the following things on hand:
- A clean toothbrush
- Microfiber cloth or alcohol wipes
- Dishwashing liquid
- Rubbing alcohol
- Cotton swabs
- Lukewarm Water
Cleaning The Tip Of Earbuds
- Start by popping off the silicon tips, foam tips, or covers on the earbuds. In a small bowl mix one part dishwashing liquid and five parts lukewarm water to make the cleaning solution. Put your earbud tips in the solution and let them soak for about 30 minutes.
Take them out of the solution and thoroughly clean them with a cotton swab dipped in soapy water. When you are done cleaning make sure to rinse the tips well with tap water. Let them air dry for several hours. Earbuds should not be put back on until they are completely dry.
Cleaning The Mesh Cover
- The mesh cover of the earbuds can be cleaned by using a clean dry toothbrush. Gently brush away any ear wax or grime that may be trapped in the mesh screen.
In the end, hold the earbud with the mesh facing downward to allow the dirt particles to fall out of the mesh instead of deeper into the earbud.
Disinfecting The Mesh Cover
- Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol can be used for disinfecting the mesh cover of the earbuds. Take a cotton swab and dip it in rubbing alcohol. Use this swab to remove the remaining residues.
However, the cotton swab should not be saturated with too much alcohol otherwise there is a risk of moisture dripping down into the inner system of the earbud.
Disinfecting The Cords Of The Earbud
- It is also important to disinfect the outside of the earbuds as well as the cord of the earbuds to eliminate the bacteria. For this purpose take a microfiber cloth and dip it in rubbing alcohol. Now wipe the outer surface of the earbud and the cords with the microfiber cloth.
This is helpful for cleaning and disinfecting the surface. The good thing about microfiber cloth is that it is lint-free and will not leave any fibers in the mesh. Another alternative is to use a prepackaged alcohol wipe for disinfecting.
Let The Earbuds Dry
- When you are done cleaning, allow the earbuds to air dry for at least 15 minutes before using them. Avoid exposing the earbuds to direct heat. Do not try to dry the earbuds with a hairdryer or a fan as this might blow the lint back into the mesh screen.
Cleaning The Case
- If you are using wireless earbuds debris can disrupt the charging so make sure you keep the earbud case clean. This can be done by wiping down the inside of the case with a microfiber cloth.
Keep Your Earbuds Clean For Longer
- Earbuds can easily pick up lint and dirt when you put them into your pocket, backpack, or purse. Always put them in a case when they are not in use.
- Earbuds should not be kept wet for long periods even if they are water-resistant. This increases the risk of moisture slipping down into the inner parts of the earbuds.
- Don’t put earbuds in your gym shorts otherwise, the sweat might damage them. Keep them in a plastic bag or waterproof case.
Source: https://trickedoutonline.com/tips-for-cleaning-earbuds/