Sweat, earwax, dust: Here's how to clean your headphones properly without ruining them

Every day, headphones accumulate bacteria, dirt, ear wax and even sweat, so they usually need to be cleaned regularly to prevent infections, according to the technology journalist.

According to Fox News “Cyberguy” Kurt Knutson, here are cleaning tips to adopt and avoid at all costs:

A soft cloth and cotton swab

Experts recommend using a soft, dry cloth to clean an AirPod type earphone to help remove any dust or dirt stuck to the surface.

Then, using a dry cotton swab, it is possible to gently attack the mesh of the microphone and speakers, where 'debris or even earwax may accumulate, depending on the expert.

It is also possible to clean the small earbuds charging case using a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect the exterior, making sure not to get any liquid on the charging ports, hinges or cover of the charging case.

SFragrance, makeup or sunscreen

When the earphone is exposed to harmful substances, including sweat, shampoo, soap, makeup or sunscreen, Curt Knutson recommends gently rubbing the device with a soft cloth.

According to Fox News, it's important to make sure it's completely dry before using it.

Silicone tip

If the earphone has a detachable silicone tip, you can wash the tip with water and dry it gently with a dry cloth or air dry for several hours, without using soap or cleaner.

“Make sure they are completely dry before adding again,” he reiterates.

Headphones

For headphones that fit over the ears, the journalist advises cleaning the headband with a cloth lightly dampened with water, otherwise there is a risk of damaging the material with chemicals or soap.

The woven mesh, where the sound is coming from, can be gently wiped using a dry, lint-free cloth. More delicate parts like the volume control button can be gently rubbed using a dry cotton swab.

Avoid at all costs

In any case, the expert is clear and clear: don't put your headphones under water, don't use compressed air tools or use sharp objects like toothpicks or abrasives to scrub the debris, which can damage the earpiece or push the debris deeper. system.

Finally, he advises against using cleaning materials that contain alcohol, bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh chemicals that can permanently damage the various components of the headphones.