AirPods are a convenient and essential part of many people’s daily routines, but like any device that comes in contact with your skin and ears, they can accumulate dirt, earwax, and grime over time. The meshes on your AirPods—especially on the AirPods Pro models—are critical to delivering clear sound and preserving the integrity of your listening experience. Proper cleaning ensures your AirPods sound great and remain in good working condition.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to safely and effectively clean the meshes on your AirPods to maintain their sound quality and prevent damage.
How to Clean the Meshes on Your AirPods
1. Gather the Right Cleaning Materials
Before you start cleaning your AirPods, make sure you have the necessary materials to do the job safely and effectively. You’ll need:
- A soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber cloth works best)
- A soft-bristled brush (such as a clean toothbrush or a small brush designed for electronics)
- Isopropyl alcohol (preferably 70% or higher)
- Cotton swabs (for delicate cleaning)
- Compressed air (optional, for blowing out debris)
Avoid using anything abrasive or harsh that could damage the mesh or other parts of your AirPods.
2. Turn Off and Disconnect Your AirPods
Before cleaning, make sure your AirPods are turned off and not connected to any device. Remove them from your ears and ensure they are not in their charging case during the cleaning process.
- Open the Bluetooth settings on your iPhone or device and disconnect the AirPods.
- Place them somewhere safe and flat to prevent accidental drops.
3. Clean the Meshes Using a Soft-Bristled Brush
The meshes on your AirPods can trap dirt, dust, and earwax, which can affect sound quality. To clean them:
- Gently Brush the Mesh
Take your soft-bristled brush and gently sweep it across the mesh area of your AirPods. Use light pressure to avoid damaging the delicate mesh and drivers inside. - Brush in Circular Motions
Move the brush in small circular motions to loosen and remove any debris or buildup. Focus on the mesh area, but also gently clean the surrounding areas. - Use a Toothbrush for More Precision
If the mesh has a lot of buildup or if you notice stubborn earwax, use a clean toothbrush to gently scrub the mesh. Avoid using too much pressure to prevent damaging the mesh.
4. Use a Microfiber Cloth to Wipe the Surface
After brushing away the debris, use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface of the AirPods. This will remove any remaining dust or oils.
- Dampen the Cloth
Lightly dampen the microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol. Make sure the cloth isn’t soaking wet—just a light dampness is enough. - Wipe the Meshes
Gently wipe the surface of the AirPods, including the mesh area. The alcohol helps disinfect the surface and remove any oils or grime. Do not get any liquid inside the AirPods or near the charging contacts. - Clean the Rest of the AirPods
You can use the same microfiber cloth to wipe down the stems and other parts of your AirPods, ensuring they’re clean and free of residue.
5. Use Compressed Air for Hard-to-Reach Areas
For stubborn debris or dust that may be stuck deep in the mesh, you can use compressed air to blow it out.
- Blow Air into the Mesh
Hold the AirPods upright and direct the compressed air at the mesh area from a safe distance (about 6 inches away). Use short bursts of air to avoid damaging the mesh. - Don’t Overdo It
Be careful not to use excessive force with the compressed air, as it could push dirt further into the mesh or damage delicate components.
6. Clean the Charging Case
Don’t forget to clean your AirPods charging case, as dirt can accumulate inside, potentially affecting charging performance.
- Wipe Down the Case
Use the same microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior of the charging case. - Clean the Interior of the Case
For the inside of the charging case, use a soft brush or cotton swab to remove any dust or lint. Avoid getting any moisture inside the case.
7. Allow the AirPods to Dry
After cleaning, make sure to let your AirPods dry completely before using them or placing them back in the charging case.
- Leave Them in a Dry Area
Let the AirPods sit on a clean, dry surface for about 30 minutes to ensure that any moisture has evaporated. - Ensure the Case Is Dry
Before putting your AirPods back in the case, ensure that both the AirPods and the case are completely dry.
Why Regularly Cleaning Your AirPods is Important
Regular cleaning of your AirPods helps maintain their performance and sound quality. Over time, earwax and dust can build up, potentially affecting the audio and causing discomfort when wearing them. By cleaning the meshes and other areas of your AirPods, you ensure they continue to provide clear, crisp sound and remain comfortable to use.
Additionally, cleaning helps protect your AirPods from long-term damage, especially to the sensitive components inside the meshes, which can become clogged with debris.
Final Thoughts on Cleaning the Meshes on Your AirPods
Cleaning the meshes of your AirPods is a simple but important step to ensure they continue to function well and provide great sound. By using the right tools, such as a soft-bristled brush, microfiber cloth, and compressed air, you can keep your AirPods in top condition for longer. Regular cleaning also ensures that your listening experience remains enjoyable and free from any distortion caused by dirt buildup.
