AirPods, right? We all rely on them every day. Music, calls, podcasts—everything sounds better. But, dirt? It builds up. The mic? Starts acting up. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents
Why Clean the Microphone?
So, the mic gets blocked. Dust, earwax, even lint from your pocket can sneak in. Calls become muffled. Siri doesn’t hear you well. It’s annoying, right? Cleaning fixes that.
- Sound quality gets better.
- Your AirPods last longer.
- You avoid replacing them too soon.
Tools You’ll Need
Grab these before you start:
- Soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
- Cotton swab.
- Soft-bristled brush (or a clean, dry toothbrush).
- Isopropyl alcohol (optional).
Six Simple Steps to Clean the Microphone
Step 1: Turn them off.
Disconnect from your phone or laptop. No one wants an accidental song blaring during cleanup.
Step 2: Wipe the outside.
Use the lint-free cloth. Gently, no pressure. The goal? Get rid of surface dirt without pushing it into the mic.
Step 3: Clean the mic opening.
Take a dry cotton swab. Twist it lightly around the mic holes. Don’t poke! We want to lift debris, not shove it inside.
Step 4: Stubborn dirt?
Use a soft-bristled brush. Circles work best. Brush around the mic carefully.
Step 5: Tough grime?
Dampen the swab with a tiny bit of isopropyl alcohol. Just be careful. No liquid should seep inside.
Step 6: Let them dry.
Give it a few minutes before using your AirPods again. Patience here is key.
Bonus: Keep Other Parts Clean Too
- Ear Tips (AirPods Pro): Pop them off. Rinse with water. Dry them well before putting them back.
- Charging Case: Soft cloth for the outside, brush for the inside.
Can I Use Disinfectants?
Yes, but be careful. 70% isopropyl alcohol or a disinfecting wipe works fine on the outside. Avoid the speaker mesh and microphone openings.
Your AirPods should now sound great, right? Good care means better performance and a longer life for your gear.