Most people never think about cleaning their AirPods — until the sound changes. They go in pockets, ears, gym bags, and desks every day. Over time, earwax, lint, skin oils, and dust slowly block the speaker mesh, making AirPods sound muffled, quiet, or uneven.
The good news is that cleaning AirPods is simple and safe when done correctly. You don’t need special tools or expensive kits — just a few common household items and about five minutes.
This guide explains how to clean AirPods safely and properly, step by step, using methods that won’t damage the speaker mesh or internal components. If sound is still off afterward, we’ll also show you what to try next.
Why Cleaning AirPods Matters
Dirty AirPods don’t just sound worse — buildup can affect:
- Audio clarity and volume
- Proper fit in your ear
- Comfort during long use
- Hygiene and ear health
Regular cleaning helps AirPods last longer and sound clearer. And no — wiping them on your shirt doesn’t really help.
What You’ll Need to Clean AirPods Safely
You can clean AirPods using simple, non-damaging tools:
- A soft microfiber cloth (like one used for glasses)
- A cotton swab
- A soft, dry toothbrush
- A wooden toothpick (never metal)
- Optional: 70% isopropyl alcohol
- Optional: reusable cleaning putty
Avoid: water, paper towels, sharp tools, compressed air, or soaking. These can damage the speaker mesh or push debris deeper inside.
Apple’s official guidance aligns with these steps. You can also review Apple’s AirPods cleaning recommendations for reference.
How to Clean AirPods (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Clean the Outside
Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the outside of each AirPod. If there’s stubborn grime, lightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol — never apply liquid directly to the AirPods.
Step 2: Clean the Speaker Mesh
Using a soft toothbrush or dry cotton swab, gently brush the speaker mesh to loosen earwax and dust. Do not press hard — pushing debris inward can worsen sound issues.
Optional: Lightly press reusable cleaning putty against the mesh to lift wax out. Do not push it into the openings.
Step 3: Clean Ear Tips (AirPods Pro)
If you use AirPods Pro, remove the silicone ear tips and rinse them with warm water only. Do not use soap. Let them air-dry completely before reattaching.
Step 4: Clean the Charging Case
Use a cotton swab or wooden toothpick to remove lint from the charging case. Be gentle around the charging contacts and avoid moisture.
If AirPods Still Sound Muffled After Cleaning
If sound is still dull or uneven after cleaning, moisture may be trapped behind the speaker mesh — especially after workouts, rain, or humidity.
A safe next step is to let the AirPods air-dry fully, then gently test sound output. Some users find that sound-based vibration tools can help move residual moisture without physical contact.
On DryPhoneSpeakers.com, you can run a short sound cycle that plays controlled frequencies designed to help move moisture out of small speaker openings. No app or download is required.
How Often Should You Clean AirPods?
| Usage | Recommended Cleaning |
|---|---|
| Daily use | Once per week |
| After workouts | 2–3 times per week |
| Shared use | After each use |
What Not to Do
- Do not wash AirPods under running water
- Do not spray cleaners directly on them
- Do not dig into the mesh with metal objects
- Do not use compressed air
Key Takeaways
Most AirPods that sound muffled don’t need replacing — they need cleaning. A soft cloth, gentle brushing, and patience solve the majority of sound problems.
If cleaning doesn’t restore sound, allow extra drying time and test again. Persistent distortion may indicate moisture or internal residue rather than permanent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you clean AirPods with alcohol?
Yes. Apple allows light use of 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cloth. Never pour alcohol directly onto AirPods or into the speaker mesh.
Why do AirPods sound muffled even after cleaning?
Sound can stay muffled if moisture is trapped behind the mesh, or if residue has hardened inside the speaker. Let AirPods air-dry fully and test again.
Is compressed air safe for AirPods?
No. Compressed air can force debris deeper into the speaker mesh and damage internal components.
How often should you clean AirPods?
Weekly for daily use, and more often if you exercise or sweat while wearing them.
If your AirPods still sound quiet after cleaning and drying, see our complete guide to fixing muffled speakers for deeper troubleshooting.