3 Earbud Cleaning Tips

With all the music-listening, virtual meeting attending and podcast bingeing you’re up to, when was the last time you cleaned your headphones? Regular earbud maintenance isn’t just hygienic, it’s a sustainable way to make this essential tech item last longer. Follow our tips below, and notice the pristine audio difference with your sparkling earbuds. —Julia Dumbrell

1. Be gentle: The key to cleaning earbuds is avoiding sharp objects or abrasive materials, which could ultimately hurt your headphones. Opt for a soft, dry and lint-free cloth to gently wipe away earwax and impurities, instead.

2. Keep it dry: While it may seem logical to give headphones a quick rinse, getting liquid in the earbuds’ openings could cause them to break. Remember not to run earbuds under water, instead removing impurities with dry cleaners.

3. Get the tools: Using a kit made for cleaning earbuds is the best way to ensure you don’t end up damaging this prized possession. The 2023 Cleaner Kit on Amazon checks all the boxes, featuring a soft brush and 3-in-1 cleaning brush effective for a variety of headphones ($10).