No matter how carefully you use your earbuds. I mean keeping the cord tangle-free, storing it inside an earphone case or carefully inserting the audio jack. You simply can’t prevent the dirt and ear wax from sticking inside the earbuds padding. If you think your earbuds are damaged and you’re looking to buy new one, then read this buying guide.
It blocks the sound and makes the earbuds more slippery to properly fit in.
Although it is possible to clean them but you may end up damaging your precious earphones.
Nobody loves to use your earphones caked with your wax.
So, before you waste another stylish pair in an attempt to clean them, here is a step-by-step guide that not only cleans the dirt from your earbuds but also prevents them from getting damaged.
1: Examining the Earphones
While most of the earbuds nowadays come with a removable padding but the ones offered by Apple having a cover on them can be pretty confusing. Not to worry, majority of them are just removable covers.
Gently pull them out and separate them from the tiny speakers right behind them. Don’t try to use needles or any pointed item to remove the dirt or wax. It can easily damage the earphone speakers.
Also see: TOP 7 BRANDS TO BUY EARBUDS
2: Preparing the Ingredients and Cleaning the Earbuds
Grab a small pot and warm small quantity of water in it. Take the earbuds or the covers and dip them into the warm water. The water should not be boiling nor lukewarm. Let them sit there for 5-10 minutes to loosen the dirt particles and earwax.
Meanwhile, warm some more water in another pot and pour in a few drops of baby detergent or de-greasing dish soap. Remove the earbuds from the first pot and dip them in the second one with dish soap or baby detergent. Allow it to rest for another 5-10 minutes.
Now take a damp cloth, to further clean the earbuds. If you see some wax left behind, take an old tooth brush and gently scrub it all over the cover.
Finally, take an alcohol-soaked moist towelettes and wipe down the earbuds. This will kill and remove any bacteria or germs in them. Dry it with a soft cloth.
Once dried, take a cotton bud, dip its tip into mineral oil and gently dab it on the inside of the earbuds or top of the earphone covers. Mineral oil is a healthy ingredient for your ears and it will soften your earphones as well.
3: Fixing
Now attach the earbuds or covers back on your earphones, plug in the audio jack, put them inside your ears and you are all set to enjoy your favorite music.
Why you Must Clean Earbuds?
- It is important for hygiene.
- Dirt particles, bacteria and other germs can stick to the earwax and damage your ears.
- It increases the lifespan of your earphones.
Things to Avoid
- Do not pinch any pointed item to clean the wax.
- Do no overheat the water.
- Never put the earbuds in washing machine.
That’s all. Other than this, you can also give a call to your earphone manufacturer and ask them if they have any toolkit for cleaning earbuds.
Related: Skullcandy Earbuds Reviewed
How long it has been since you cleaned them the last time?