How to Clean AirPods: The Best Tips and Tricks
AirPods are small and super cool! They let us listen to music, talk to friends, and watch videos without wires. But just like anything else we use daily, they can get dirty. Dirt, dust, and earwax can build up, making them look bad and even sound worse. If you want to keep your AirPods clean and working like new, This article gives you best tips and tricks to clean airpods. Now, follow these easy steps to overcome your problem.
Why Should You Clean Your AirPods?
Cleaning your AirPods is important for many reasons:
- Better Sound Quality: If your AirPods are dirty, they might not sound as good as they should.
- Longer Life: Taking care of them helps them last longer.
- Health and Hygiene: Dirty AirPods can have bacteria that might cause ear infections.
- Looks Fresh: Clean AirPods look neat and stylish, just like when you first bought them.
What You Need to Clean AirPods
Before we start cleaning, gather these items:
- A soft, lint-free cloth (like the one for glasses)
- Cotton swabs (Q-tips)
- A toothpick or a soft-bristled brush
- Rubbing alcohol (only a little bit)
- A dry toothbrush
- A microfiber cloth
Now that we have everything, let’s begin the cleaning process!

Step 1: Clean Your AirPods and AirPod Pro Meshes
The tiny speaker meshes can collect dust and earwax over time. To clean them:
- If needed, carefully use a toothpick to loosen stubborn debris, but be gentle to avoid damage.
- Use a dry cotton swab to clean the mesh gently.
- A soft-bristled toothbrush can help remove stuck dirt.
Step 2: Clean the Body of Your AirPods
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the entire body of the AirPods. If there are any stubborn spots, slightly dampen the cloth with a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol and wipe again.
Step 3: Clean the Charging Case of Your AirPods
Your AirPods sit in their charging case most of the time, so they also need cleaning.
- For the charging port, use a toothpick or a dry toothbrush to remove any lint or dust.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the inside and outside of the case.
- If you see dirt inside, use a dry cotton swab to clean the edges.
Step 4: Clean the AirPods Stem
The stem is the long part of the AirPods. Wipe it down with a soft cloth and clean any dirt with a cotton swab. Be sure not to push anything inside the tiny holes.

How to clean Airpods case
Keeping your AirPods case clean not only enhances its appearance but also ensures optimal functionality. With simple cleaning steps, you can prevent dust buildup and maintain a spotless look effortlessly. So let’s start!
What You’ll Need:
- Soft, lint-free microfiber cloth
- Cotton swabs (Q-tips)
- Toothpick or soft-bristle brush
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:
- Wipe the Exterior: Dampen a lint-free cloth with alcohol and gently wipe the case to remove dirt and smudges.
- Clean the Charging Port: Use a toothpick or soft brush to remove dust from the charging port. Be gentle to avoid damage.
- Clean the Interior: Use a dry cotton swab or one lightly dampened with alcohol to clean the AirPods slots. Avoid excess moisture near charging connectors.
- Allow It to Dry: Keep the case open for a few minutes to let any residual moisture evaporate before placing your AirPods inside.
What to Avoid:
- Using water inside the case
- Sharp or metallic tools
- Direct heat or sunlight
For added protection, consider using a silicone case cover to prevent dust buildup and scratches.
Best Tips to Keep AirPods Clean
Cleaning AirPods regularly is great, but you can also keep them from getting dirty in the first place. Here are some smart tips:
1. Keep Your Ears Clean
Since AirPods go inside your ears, they can pick up earwax. Cleaning your ears often will help keep them clean for longer.
2. Store Them in the Case
When you are not using your AirPods, always keep them in their case. This prevents dust and dirt from getting on them.
3. Do not Use Them with Dirty Hands
Make sure your hands are clean before touching your AirPods. Oil and dirt from your hands can make them dirty quickly.
4. Avoid Using Them in Dusty Places
If you are in a very dusty or dirty area, try not to use your AirPods. Dust can get inside and block the speaker mesh.
5. Do not Share Your AirPods Too Much
Sharing AirPods with others can spread germs and make them dirtier faster. If you must share, clean them afterward.
6. Use a Case Cover
A case cover protects the charging case from getting dirty or scratched. This keeps everything cleaner.

Tips to Avoid Skin Irritation
Some people experience skin irritation when using AirPods. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Clean AirPods Regularly: Dirt and bacteria can cause skin irritation.
- Use Hypoallergenic Ear Tips: If you have sensitive skin, using silicone ear tips can help.
- Avoid Using AirPods for Long Hours: Give your ears a break to prevent irritation.
- Check for Allergies: Some materials in AirPods or cleaning solutions might irritate. If this happens, switch to a different cleaning method.
- Keep Your Ears Dry: Moisture and sweat can irritate when wearing AirPods for a long time.
What NOT to Do While Cleaning AirPods
To keep your AirPods safe, avoid these mistakes:
- Don’t Blow Into the Speaker Mesh: Blowing air inside can push dirt deeper instead of removing it.
- Don’t Use Water: AirPods are not waterproof. Never soak them in water.
- Don’t Use Sharp Objects: Using needles or sharp objects can damage the mesh.
- Don’t Use Too Much Alcohol: A little alcohol is okay, but too much can harm the materials.
AirPods vs. AirPods Pro: What’s the Difference?
Apple makes two types of wireless earbuds: AirPods and AirPods Pro. But they have some key differences. Let’s take a look at what makes them different and how you can keep them clean.
Feature | AirPods | AirPods Pro |
Design and Fit | One-size-fits-all, no rubber tips, may fall out easily | Soft silicone ear tips in different sizes for a better fit |
Noise Cancellation | No Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), lets in outside sounds | Has ANC to block background noise, with Transparency Mode |
Sound Quality | Good sound quality | Better bass and clearer sound due to in-ear design |
Price | Cheaper | More expensive due to extra features |
Battery Life | 4-5 hours per charge, up to 24 hours with case | Similar battery life, but ANC can reduce usage time |
FREQUESNTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Final Thoughts
Keeping your AirPods clean is super easy if you follow these simple steps. Cleaning them regularly will make sure they stay fresh, sound great, and last a long time. Just remember to be gentle while cleaning and avoid using too much liquid.
Now that you know how to clean your AirPods properly, enjoy your music and calls without worrying about dirt or germs with speaker cleaner.