For music lovers and people who prefer listening to audio content, AirPods have revolutionized the way they consume media. However, one common issue that owners of AirPods encounter is earwax buildup, which can lead to reduced sound quality or even damage the AirPods. If you have been struggling with earwax buildup, keep reading to find out how to say goodbye to earwax buildup in your AirPods.
Clean your AirPods regularly
If you use your AirPods frequently, it is crucial to clean them regularly to avoid earwax buildup. You can clean them using a dry, microfiber cloth or a small brush to remove any dirt, debris, or earwax from the charging case, the AirPods, and ear tips. Ensure you clean them gently, avoiding wetting the AirPods or ear tips with liquids like water or cleansing agents.
Cleaning the Charging Case
The charging case is the gateway to your AirPods, and it is essential to keep it clean. Wipe it with a dry, lint-free cloth or a brush gently to remove dirt and debris, as they can transfer onto the AirPods over time.
Cleaning the AirPods
To avoid damaging the mesh that covers the speaker in the AirPods or the sensor located in the stem, you should never use liquid or compressed air on your AirPods. Instead, use a soft, dry, and lint-free cloth to wipe off any earwax or dirt on the surface gently.
However, if you want to give your AirPods a deep clean, you can use a small, soft-bristled brush to remove the earwax from the speaker mesh carefully.
Cleaning the Ear Tips
The ear tips are prone to accumulating earwax, which can affect their effectiveness in blocking out noise and cause discomfort in your ears. To clean the ear tips, gently remove them from the AirPods and use a dry, soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth to clean off any earwax or dirt that may have accumulated on them. You can also wipe them with a damp cloth and let them dry fully before reattaching them to the AirPods.
Check the ear fit
Another reason for AirPods not functioning correctly may be the fit in your ear canal. If the AirPods do not fit snugly in your ear canal, they will not function correctly, and earwax buildup may occur.
Adjusting the Ear Tips
You can try adjusting the ear tips to improve the fit of your AirPods in your ears. Apple provides three sets of ear tips, small, medium, and large, which can be removed and replaced with ease. Testing each ear tip size will allow you to determine which size is the best fit. A good fit will ensure sound quality is maximized and that the AirPods stay in place in your ears, preventing earwax buildup over time.
Using Foam Inserts
Another option to consider is foam inserts. Foam inserts help create a tighter seal within your ears, allowing the AirPods to remain secure and free from earwax buildup.
Store your AirPods correctly
Storage can also make a significant difference in the buildup of earwax in your AirPods. It is important to store them correctly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris.
Using a Protective Case
A protective case can help prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on your AirPods while they are not in use. Additionally, protective cases can be an overall place to store your AirPods, keeping them protected and safe from any accidental drops or bumps.
Avoid Storing AirPods in a Humid Place
When it comes to storing your AirPods, be sure to keep them in a dry place. Humidity can cause problems with electronics, and this also applies to your AirPods. Keeping your AirPods dry will help avoid earwax buildup, reduce the chances of them malfunctioning, or getting damaged.
Use appropriate cleaning tools
The best approach to cleaning AirPods is to use cleaning tools that are safe and appropriate for the job. You should avoid using any sharp or pointy objects to clean your AirPods, as they can damage the speaker, sensors, and ear tips.
Microfiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is gentle enough to clean your AirPods without causing any damage. Microfiber cloths are readily available and can be washed and used multiple times. Ensure that the microfiber cloth is entirely dry before using it to clean your AirPods.
Soft-bristled Brush
A soft-bristled brush is another great tool for cleaning your AirPods. Choose a brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the surface of the AirPods or speaker mesh.
Compressed Air
Cans of compressed air may be used to remove dirt and debris from the AirPods. Nevertheless, ensure that pressure is not too high when using compressed air as the pressurized air can damage the speaker within the AirPods.
Final thoughts on cleaning your AirPods
You are now aware of how to keep your AirPods functioning correctly and free from earwax buildups. Following these simple steps will help prolong the lifespan of your AirPods and ensure optimal performance. Remember to clean your AirPods regularly and store them safely. Using only appropriate cleaning tools will help prevent damage and ensure they are kept in good condition for years to come.
FAQs
- 1. Why are my AirPods not working correctly?
- 2. How do I remove earwax buildup from my AirPods?
- 3. Can I use water to clean my AirPods?
- 4. Are there any special cleaning solutions I can use on my AirPods?
- 5. How often should I clean my AirPods?
One of the most common reasons AirPods do not work correctly is due to earwax buildup, which can obstruct sound quality and reduce functionality. Cleaning your AirPods regularly can help prevent this.
You can remove earwax buildup from your AirPods by using a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush, and gently brushing the surface where earwax may have accumulated.
You should not use water to clean your AirPods as this may cause damage to the electronic components inside the AirPods.
You should avoid using cleaning solutions on your AirPods as these may contain chemicals that can damage them. Instead, use a microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush to clean them gently.
You should clean your AirPods regularly, preferably every two weeks, to avoid earwax buildup.
References:
1. Apple Support. (n.d.). Clean your AirPods and AirPods Pro. Retrieved August 18, 2021, from https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208729
2. FixThePhoto.com. (n.d.). How to Clean AirPods and AirPods Pro? Retrieved August 18, 2021, from https://fixthephoto.com/how-to-clean-airpods.html
3. TechRadar. (2019, February 28). How to clean your AirPods and protect your earbuds from bacteria. Retrieved August 18, 2021, from https://www.techradar.com/how-to/how-to-clean-your-airpods