Follow These Simple Steps To Clean Earbuds At Home

From long workouts in the gym to travelling in metros, earbuds keep our lives full of favourite beats and music. So why not return the favour by learning how to clean them? Here are 5 simple steps to begin.

By Parul Sharma Published On: Jun 26, 2025 02:40 PM IST Last Updated On: Jun 26, 2025 02:47 PM IST
How To Clean Earbuds At Home

How To Clean Earbuds At Home

For many of us, music helps us focus better, boosts productivity, and feel better about our lives. However, gradual use of earbuds can fill them with dirt, sweat, earwax, and whatnot. As gross as it may sound, earbuds can be full of gunk, which affects their sound quality and can cause discomfort. Luckily, you can clean your earbuds at home with just a few simple steps. Yes, you don't need professional help or expensive cleaning kits. Here is what you need to know about how to clean earbuds at home. 

How To Clean Earbuds At Home

How To Clean Earbuds At Home; Photo Credit: Unsplash

1. Remove Rubber Tips

The first and foremost thing you need to do is remove the rubber tips of your earbuds. This will make your job easier and faster. Use a cotton bud to gently remove dirt, wax, or any other substance from your tips. You can also damp your cotton bud with water to loosen the debris and make cleaning more effective. 

Another way to clean the tips of your earbuds is to soak them in warm, soapy water. However, this may not be required each time. 

2. Clean The Speakers

Once you are done cleaning the rubber tips, keep them aside safely to avoid losing them. Now, take any old makeup brush with soft bristles and gently move it on the speakers of your earbuds. This will remove any wax or dirt stuck without damaging the speaker. Use light circular motions instead of using your entire force. 

Avoid using any liquid-soaked cloth or tissue while cleaning the speaker part. This will prevent clogging and maintain clear audio quality. 

How To Clean Earbuds At Home

How To Clean Earbuds At Home; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Clean The Buds From Outside

Now that you are done with the inside mechanisms of your earbuds, it's time to give the outer part some attention. For this, you can use any soft-bristle brush or wet tissue to get in those curves and crevices. Another option is to use a damp microfibre cloth to make your earbuds shine like new ones. 

Also Read: Unbeatable Sound On A Budget: Explore Wireless Earphones And Earbuds Under ₹1,500 On Flipkart

4. Clean The Charging Case

Many of us often ignore cleaning the charging case, not knowing that it can harbour a lot of bacteria. Use a wet tissue and gently clean the inside and outside of your case. Don't be too surprised to see a lot of stuck wax and dirt coming out of your earbud case

How To Clean Earbuds At Home

How To Clean Earbuds At Home; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Let Air Dry And Assemble

Now it is time to allow all the components of your earbuds to air dry completely. Any moisture trapped inside can damage the internal electronics or cause other issues. Similarly, it can be bad for your ears as well. In addition to this, avoid drying your earbuds using a hair dryer or in direct sunlight. These small tips can help maintain the longevity and efficiency of your earbuds

What Not To Do When Cleaning Wireless Earbuds

  • Avoid these common mistakes when cleaning your earbuds to protect their durability and performance:
  • Don't submerge earbuds or the case in water
  • Don't use liquids directly on the speaker mesh
  • Avoid using sharp objects like pencils or pins to clean
  • Don't use strong cleaning agents
  • Avoid using pressure while cleaning

Products Related To This Article

1. boAt Airdopes 121 Pro Plus
2. HAMMER Screen TWS, ANC (32dB), Smart Touch Display True Wireless Buds
3. OnePlus Nord Buds
4. boAt Airdopes 311 Pro
5. W20 Truly Wireless in Ear Earbuds
6. boAt Airdopes 91 Prime
7. Mivi SuperPods Immersio
8. Noise Buds VS402
9. Noise Buds N1
10. realme Buds T310

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best way to clean earbuds?

The best way to clean earbuds is to use a damp microfibre cloth and cotton bud. They are gentle and can loosen wax stuck inside. 

2. How do I clean the inside of my earbuds?

To clean the inside of your earphones, first remove the rubber tips. Use a damp cotton bud to clean the tips and remove any stuck debris. Next, use a soft-bristle brush to clean the speaker mesh without damaging it. You can also buy an earbud cleaning case from online websites.

3. How to clean a dirty earbud case?

To clean a dirty earbud case, use a damp microfibre cloth and gently wipe it across every crevice. Pay special attention to the lid and make sure to get all stuck debris out. 

4. Can I clean earbuds with sanitizer?

If you want to use sanitizer to clean your earbuds, it is best to spray it on a cotton bud or microfibre cloth. 

5. Does dropping earbuds damage them?

There is are slight chance that repeated or forceful drops can damage your earbuds or the case. 

Keeping your wireless earbuds clean doesn't require much. But it can still make a difference in their performance, durability, and comfort. And the best part? You can do this cleaning ritual every weekend in under an hour or so. So, the next time you see visible earwax, hair, or any foreign substance on your earbuds, follow these simple steps and make them more hygienic. 

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.

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