Clean in-ear headphones - how it works

Cleaning is more common with in-ear headphones than with on-ear headphones. In this practical tip, we have put together what you should consider when cleaning your in-ear headphones.

Cleaning the in-ear headphones

Very few in-ear headphones tolerate being held under running water. Many headphones are also sensitive to some chemicals.

• You can remove the attachments on most in-ear headphones. If the ear cushions are made of silicone, you don't have to be as economical with the water. The attachments can be cleaned quite well with a little washing-up liquid or soap. You come to the corners with a cotton swab.
• If the in-ear headphones are very dirty, take a more radical approach to avoid the risk of ear infection. First, remove the dirt with dry kitchen paper or similar, if possible. Finally, grab a disinfectant wipe and gently rub the earphones. but thoroughly with it. Alternatively, moisten kitchen paper or a cotton swab with disinfectant or cleaning alcohol. However, you should be very careful with the cleaning method so that you do not damage the in-ear headphones.
• On the headphones themselves, water is of course taboo. If dirt has gotten through the grille, you can try to remove dirt carefully using a hair dryer on the smallest setting and with cold air. Cotton swabs are not a good idea in this case because the cotton head may get caught behind the grille.
• If your in-ear headphones are very robust, carefully remove the dirt with compressed air.
• If the ear pads are too dirty, you can get new replacement pads for your in-ear headphones for a relatively small amount.