AirPods are now a common item used by people throughout the UK, but what is the best way to clean them?
The wireless headphones were introduced by Apple back in 2016 and have become a staple for many people.
Alongside the ones made by Apple to pair with iPhones, there are numerous other versions that are now on the market.
Due to their small size, they can be a bit fiddly to clean, and there is the worry about damaging the device over time if you do the wrong thing.
I asked three cleaning/technology experts what the best ways were, and this is what they had to say.
What are the best ways to clean AirPods?
Cleaning experts at method suggested using a soft-bristled toothbrush in combination with their deep house clean anti-bac cleaner to work around the mesh and seams.
They added: “The fine bristles help tease out trapped dirt without over-wetting the earbuds. Finish with a dry microfibre cloth to leave them looking and feeling clean again.”
Lee Elliott, Chief Product Officer at Compare and Recycle, also advocated for the importance of being gentle with the mesh.
He explained: “Firstly, you want to pay special attention to the mesh sections of the headphones, the parts going inside the ear, as these are the most prone to a buildup of dirt.
“To clean this section, you can use micellar water that contains PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, such as Neutrogena, some distilled water, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and kitchen roll.
“Dip the toothbrush in a small amount of micellar water, and as you do this, hold your AirPod with the mesh facing upwards.
“Brush the mesh in circles for around 15 seconds before turning over your AirPod and dabbing it with your kitchen roll.
“Repeat this process a couple of times to loosen the grime and ensure the mesh is fully clean.
“Once you’ve done this, you want to repeat the process, but this time with just distilled water, to ensure any residue from the micellar water has been removed.”
Meanwhile, for the AirPod body, he suggests using a slightly damp cloth and fresh water, before patting dry with a lint-free cloth.
Alongside that, Specsavers’s chief audiologist, Gordon Harrison, has said it’s important to clean your AirPods to reduce the risk of infection in your ears.
He said: “Earbuds can create a warm, enclosed environment in the ear canal, trapping heat and moisture.
“If they’re not cleaned regularly, this can make it easier for bacteria to thrive and increase the risk of ear infections.”
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To clean AirPods, Harrison recommended wiping them with an alcohol-based antibacterial wipe.
Additionally, you could use a soft cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl rubbing alcohol.
“This will help remove any earwax, sweat or debris that can build up on the surface,” he shared.
