AirPods are great until they get gunky. Dust, earwax, and lint can build up, affecting sound quality and even causing charging issues. But don’t worry; this article has got you covered! This guide will walk you through the safe way to clean your AirPods and case without causing damage. We’ll use everyday tools like a lint-free cloth, cotton swabs, and a soft-bristled brush to keep your wireless earbuds spotless. Let’s dive into these simple AirPods care tips to keep your music crisp and clear.
1. Start With a Dry, Lint-Free Cloth
First, use a lint-free cloth to clean your AirPods and their case. This removes surface dust and prevents dirt from getting pushed into crevices. Your wireless earbuds require careful but complete cleaning rather than rough scrubbing.

Avoid using paper towels because they may deposit fibers on the surface. Think of this step as a quick refresh before we get into deep cleaning. The lint-free cloth functions well for cleaning AirPods properly.
2. Get Into the Grooves on the Top of the Case
The case lid holds dust in its tiny grooves, making neglecting this area a big mistake. The tricky spots of your wireless earbuds require cleaning with a dry, soft-bristled brush. Carefully brush off dirt by applying gentle pressure on the surface. To remove tough residue, wrap a lint-free cloth around a toothpick and use it to scrape inside the grooves carefully. A little effort during AirPods maintenance will protect both the case and keep it clean.
3. Use a Dry, Soft-Bristled Brush to Clean the Lightning Port
Ever had charging issues? A dirty Lightning port might be the culprit! Grab a soft-bristled brush (like a clean, dry paintbrush) and gently sweep out dust from the charging port.

Never use sharp objects, as they can damage the delicate connectors. Compressed air (on a low setting) can help if debris is stubborn. This simple trick ensures your wireless earbuds charge properly every time.
4. Brush Away Debris From the Speaker Mesh
The speaker mesh is where sound magic happens, but it’s also a magnet for dirt. A dry, soft-bristled brush is the best tool to gently sweep away dust and earwax. Lightly dampen a cotton swab with water (not dripping!) and dab at the mesh if needed. Never push too hard; damaging the mesh can affect sound quality. Keeping this area clean ensures crystal-clear audio and extends your AirPods’ lifespan.
5. Clean an AirPods Case With Alcohol
Sometimes, a deeper clean is necessary. Use a cotton swab lightly dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean stubborn grime inside the case. Be sure the swab isn’t too wet; you don’t want moisture seeping inside.

Alcohol dries quickly, killing bacteria and keeping your earbud’s hygiene in check. But remember, never pour alcohol directly onto the case; less is more when it comes to AirPods care tips.
6. Remove Earwax Without Damaging Your AirPods
Let’s be real: earwax buildup is inevitable. The safest method? A dry cotton swab to gently lift away wax from the speaker mesh. If necessary, dampen the swab with a tiny bit of water, but never soak your AirPods! Avoid sharp objects like toothpicks, which can push wax deeper inside. Regular cleaning keeps the sound quality at its best and improves AirPods maintenance.
7. Skip Water and Harsh Chemicals
Water and electronics don’t mix. Never submerge your AirPods or case in water; avoid bleach or strong cleaning solutions.

If you need moisture, use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with alcohol or water. Keeping it simple is the safest way to clean your AirPods without risking damage.
8. Dry Your AirPods After Cleaning
Once you’ve finished cleaning the AirPods, let them air dry completely before popping them back in the case. Any remaining moisture can cause damage. A few minutes of patience ensures your wireless earbuds stay in top shape. Good earbuds hygiene means longer-lasting AirPods.
Enjoy Your Fresh, Clean AirPods
Now that you know the safe way to clean your AirPods, it’s time to enjoy your crisp, clear sound! Keeping your wireless earbuds clean enhances audio quality and extends their life. Try these simple AirPods care tips; you’ll never have to deal with muffled sound or charging issues again.

Speaking of maintenance, your other gadgets need care, too. For example, did you know that cleaning your fridge coils can improve its efficiency? Check out this guide on How to Clean Refrigerator Coils to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly to keep all your devices working at their best.