Electronics

How to Clean AirPods and AirPods Pro Safely

AirPods are a daily necessity for many, but they quickly accumulate earwax, sweat, and pocket lint. This buildup not only looks unhygienic but can also muffle the speaker grilles, significantly reducing sound quality and active noise cancellation. Because AirPods are delicate electronics with zero water resistance, cleaning them incorrectly can permanently ruin them. Here is how to safely clean your AirPods, AirPods Pro, and their charging case without causing liquid damage.

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Primary reference: Apple: How to clean your AirPods. Always check the manual for your exact model.

What you will need

  • A clean, soft, lint-free cloth
  • Dry cotton swabs
  • A clean, dry, soft-bristled brush
  • Fresh water for removable AirPods Pro ear tips
  • 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe only where Apple permits it for your model

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Identify the AirPods model

Remove the AirPods from the case and disconnect the case from power. Apple's permitted mesh-cleaning method differs among AirPods, AirPods Pro, and generations within those families, so confirm the model in your device settings and open the linked Apple instructions before using any liquid. Never submerge an AirPod or charging case.

Step 2: Wipe the exterior

Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth on each AirPod. If the exterior was exposed to lotion, soap, sunscreen, oil, or another substance that can stain it, Apple directs users to wipe the body with a cloth slightly dampened with fresh water and then dry it with a soft cloth. Keep moisture out of every opening and allow the AirPods to dry completely before use.

Step 3: Clear loose debris from meshes

Hold the mesh downward and use a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush to lift loose lint and wax away. Do not push a toothpick, pin, needle, or other sharp object into the mesh; puncturing or deforming it can damage the acoustic seal. If dry brushing does not clear the mesh, follow Apple's exact liquid-and-brush method for your model rather than improvising.

Step 4: Wash removable AirPods Pro ear tips

Pull each silicone ear tip straight off the AirPod. Rinse the detached tip with water only—do not use soap or household cleaner—then wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. Let the tip dry completely before aligning it and clicking it securely back into place. The AirPod body itself does not go under the tap.

Step 5: Clean the charging case

Wipe the case with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Use a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush around the connector and a dry cotton swab for loose debris inside the wells, without pressing on the contacts. Do not place liquid in the charging wells or connector. Let every part dry before charging or returning the AirPods to the case.

Specific cleaning questions

Open a question for a concise answer about stains, odors, safety, frequency, and troubleshooting.

Can AirPods or AirPods Pro be submerged in water?
No. Water resistance on supported models is not the same as waterproofing and can diminish with normal wear. Do not rinse the AirPod body, swim with it, or place it in a washing machine. Only detached AirPods Pro ear tips are rinsed with water, and they must be completely dry before reattachment.
Why is one AirPod quieter after I clean it?
Moisture or compacted debris may still be covering the speaker mesh. Stop using the AirPod, leave it mesh-down in a dry place, and do not charge it until it is fully dry. If dry brushing and the official method for your model do not restore volume, use Apple's service options instead of probing the mesh.
Can I use a toothpick or needle to remove AirPods earwax?
Do not insert a toothpick, pin, needle, or metal pick into a mesh or opening. A sharp tool can puncture the acoustic mesh, push wax farther inside, or damage a contact. Use a soft brush and the model-specific Apple cleaning method.
Can I use 70% isopropyl alcohol on AirPods?
Apple permits certain disinfecting wipes on some exterior surfaces, but the rules vary by model and do not mean liquid can enter an opening. Never apply alcohol directly, never use it on a speaker mesh unless the current model instructions specifically say to, and never use bleach or hydrogen peroxide.
How do I clean AirPods Pro silicone ear tips?
Remove the tips from the AirPods, rinse the tips with water only, and wipe them dry. Do not use soap or household cleaner. Wait until the tips are completely dry, then align each tip and press until it clicks into place.
How do I remove lint from the AirPods charging case?
Disconnect the case from power. Use a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush around the charging connector and a dry cotton swab to lift loose lint from the wells. Avoid liquid, compressed air at close range, and tools that can bend the charging contacts.
What should I do if AirPods went through the washing machine?
Remove them from power, wipe the exterior, and allow the AirPods and open case to dry in moving room-temperature air. Do not charge, heat, or place them in rice. Water damage may require service even after the exterior looks dry.
How often should I clean AirPods?
Wipe them after sweaty use and clean visible wax before it hardens. A brief weekly inspection usually prevents heavy buildup, but frequency depends on wear. Clean the case when lint appears and always dry the AirPods before returning them to it.