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How can I clean my headphones?

Published in Headphone Care 2 mins read

To clean your headphones, avoid getting liquids inside and wipe down each component, including the wire, with a cloth. Ensure everything is thoroughly dry afterward.

Here's a breakdown for more effective cleaning:

  1. Disconnect: Always disconnect your headphones from any power source before cleaning.

  2. Gather Supplies: You'll need:

    • A soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber is ideal)
    • A small amount of mild soap (optional, for tougher grime)
    • Cotton swabs (for hard-to-reach areas)
    • Isopropyl alcohol (optional, for sanitizing, but use sparingly and avoid painted surfaces).
  3. Surface Cleaning:

    • Dampen the cloth slightly with water. If using soap, dilute it heavily.
    • Wipe down all external surfaces of the headphones, including the earcups, headband, and cable.
    • Pay attention to areas that come into direct contact with your skin.
    • Use a dry part of the cloth to wipe away any excess moisture.
  4. Cleaning Earcups (Over-Ear/On-Ear):

    • If the earcups are removable, detach them for easier cleaning.
    • Wipe the earcups with a damp cloth. For fabric earcups, you can gently blot them to remove stains.
    • Allow the earcups to air dry completely before reattaching them.
  5. Cleaning Earbuds (In-Ear):

    • Remove any silicone or foam tips.
    • Clean the tips with warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry completely.
    • Use a dry cotton swab to gently clean the mesh covering the earbud speaker. Be careful not to push debris further in. You can very gently use a soft brush (like a clean, dry toothbrush) to dislodge debris.
    • For the body of the earbud, wipe with a slightly damp cloth.
  6. Cleaning the Cable:

    • Wipe down the cable with a damp cloth.
    • If the cable is particularly dirty, you can use a small amount of mild soap.
    • Dry the cable thoroughly.
  7. Sanitizing (Optional):

    • If you want to sanitize your headphones, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
    • Wipe down the surfaces you want to sanitize.
    • Let the alcohol evaporate completely. Important: Do not saturate the headphones with alcohol.
  8. Drying: Allow all components to air dry completely before using your headphones again. This prevents moisture damage.

Important Considerations:

  • Avoid Excessive Moisture: Never submerge your headphones in water or use excessive amounts of liquid.
  • Check Manufacturer's Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for your specific headphones model.
  • Storage: Store your headphones in a clean, dry place when not in use.