How to Clean Airpods – Complete Guide for Every Model

Keeping your AirPods clean is about more than just appearances. Ear wax, dust, and debris can accumulate in speaker grilles, reduce audio quality, and even interfere with charging. Apple provides specific cleaning guidance for each model, and following those instructions is the safest way to maintain your devices without causing damage.

Whether you own standard AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max, the cleaning methods differ in important ways. AirPods Pro have removable silicone ear tips, AirPods Max have detachable ear cushions and a knit mesh canopy, and all models require thorough drying before use or storage. This guide breaks down the best practices for each product, based on official guidance from Apple.

How to Clean Your AirPods Case, Step by Step

The charging case is one of the most frequently handled parts of your AirPods setup. Dirt and lint can build up inside the lid, around the charging port, and on the contact pins, potentially preventing your earbuds from charging properly.

Before you start, keep these important insights in mind:

• Apple recommends avoiding liquid ingress: wipe with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth only. Never spray directly.
• Isopropyl alcohol (70%) is safe for disinfecting AirPods skins and case exterior, but keep away from mesh and speaker grilles.
• For AirPods Pro, Apple now allows rinsing under running water for 10 seconds (as of Feb 2026 update).
• Yellowing ear tips on AirPods Pro are common due to oils and sweat; mild soap and water can restore color.
• Cleaning the mesh/speaker grille improves sound clarity more than any other part.
• Apple says to let AirPods dry completely for at least two hours before placing them back in the charging case or using them.
• Do not use bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or abrasive materials on any part of your AirPods or case.

Apple advises using a soft, dry, lint-free cloth for the case. If needed, you can slightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol to disinfect the exterior. For the charging port, use a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush and avoid inserting anything into the port.

How to Clean AirPods Pro and Remove Ear Wax and Yellow Tips

AirPods Pro require a slightly different approach because of their removable silicone ear tips and more exposed mesh grilles. Ear wax buildup is the most common issue, and it can affect both comfort and sound quality.

Cleaning the Ear Tips

Apple’s official guidance for cleaning AirPods Pro recommends removing the silicone ear tips before cleaning. For AirPods Pro 2 and later, you can rinse the ear tips under running tap water with the opening facing downward. Apple explicitly advises against using soap or household cleaners on the ear tips.

Cleaning the Mesh and Speaker Grille

For ear wax lodged in the mesh of AirPods or AirPods Pro, Apple suggests using a soft-bristled toothbrush with micellar water. After brushing, rinse the brush with distilled water and repeat the process using only distilled water to remove any residue.

After cleaning the mesh, let your AirPods dry completely for at least two hours before placing them back in the charging case or using them. This drying period is critical to avoid moisture damage.

Cleaning the Body and Stem

For the outer surfaces of your AirPods Pro, wipe them with a cloth slightly dampened with fresh water, then dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid getting moisture into the openings, and never submerge non-Pro models.

Restoring Sound Quality by Cleaning the Mesh and Speaker Grilles

If your AirPods sound muffled or quieter than usual, ear wax or debris has likely accumulated in the speaker mesh. Cleaning the mesh is one of the most effective ways to restore audio clarity.

Step-by-Step Mesh Cleaning

Start by inspecting the mesh under good light. Use a soft-bristled brush—such as a clean, dry toothbrush—to gently dislodge any visible wax or dust. For stubborn buildup, Apple recommends applying a small amount of micellar water to the brush, then repeating the process with distilled water.

Blotting the mesh on a lint-free cloth or paper towel can help draw out residue. The Independent’s IndyBest guide suggests turning the AirPod over and blotting the mesh on a paper towel to remove excess moisture after cleaning.

What to Avoid

Do not use compressed air, as it can force debris deeper into the device or damage the delicate membrane behind the mesh. Similarly, inserting sharp objects like pins or needles into the mesh holes can cause permanent damage that is not covered by warranty.

Cleaning AirPods Max and Their Cushions

AirPods Max require a completely different cleaning routine because of their over-ear design, removable ear cushions, and knit mesh canopy.

Cleaning the Ear Cushions

Apple instructs users to remove the ear cushions from the headband. Wash them by gently rubbing with a cloth dipped in a mild liquid detergent solution. After washing, wipe them again with fresh water to remove any soap residue, and let them air-dry for at least a day before reattaching. Apple’s official AirPods Max cleaning page provides the full details.

Cleaning the Knit Mesh Canopy and Case

The knit mesh canopy on the headband should not be treated with alcohol wipes or any cleaning liquid. Apple explicitly advises against using alcohol or other cleaning solutions on this part. For the Smart Case, a soft, dry, lint-free cloth is sufficient; if needed, you can slightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol.

For the hard exterior surfaces of AirPods Max, Apple permits the use of 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes, 75% ethyl alcohol wipes, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, as long as you avoid the knit mesh canopy and ear cushions.

How Often Should You Clean Your AirPods?

Regular cleaning helps maintain audio quality, hygiene, and the longevity of your devices. The frequency depends on usage, but the following schedule covers typical needs.

1. Weekly: Wipe the exterior of your AirPods and case with a dry or slightly damp lint-free cloth.
2. Bi-weekly: Remove and clean the ear tips (if applicable), and inspect the speaker mesh for wax or debris.
3. Monthly: Perform a full deep clean. Remove ear tips, clean the mesh with a soft brush, and wipe the case interior with a cotton swab slightly dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
4. As needed: If sound quality degrades or ear tips turn yellow, spot clean immediately rather than waiting for the next scheduled session.

Apple emphasises that all models must be dried completely before use or storage. Moisture trapped inside the case or earbuds can cause charging issues and potential damage.

What Is Safe and What Is Risky When Cleaning AirPods

Not all cleaning methods are created equal, and some common household products can do more harm than good. Here is a breakdown of what is established as safe versus what remains uncertain or carries risk.

Why Cleaning Your AirPods Matters

Ear wax and debris accumulate in speaker grilles over time, significantly reducing audio output and bass response. A build-up that looks minor can make a noticeable difference to what you hear.

Regular cleaning also supports hygiene. AirPods sit in your ears for extended periods and come into contact with sweat, earwax, and environmental dust. Keeping them clean reduces the transfer of oils and bacteria.

Proper care extends the lifespan of the earbuds and prevents charging issues caused by dirty case connectors. Apple’s evolving cleaning guidelines—such as the 2026 update allowing water rinsing for Pro models—reflect improved water resistance in newer generations, but the core principle of gentle, minimal-moisture cleaning remains.

What Apple and Other Sources Recommend

Apple’s support documentation is the most authoritative source for cleaning guidance. Below are key statements from the company and independent publications.

“Wipe them clean with a cloth slightly dampened with fresh water, and dry them with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.”

— Apple Support, “How to clean your AirPods”

“Rinse each AirPod by immersing it in a bowl of water for 10 seconds while shaking the AirPod lightly to wash away debris.”

— Apple Support, “How to clean your AirPods Pro”

“Turn the AirPod over and blot the mesh on a paper towel. To remove any residue, rinse the brush in distilled water.”

— The Independent, IndyBest guide

Apple also provides separate cleaning guidance for AirPods Max, with model-specific steps that differ from the standard AirPods instructions.

Keeping Your AirPods Clean Between Deep Cleans

Once your AirPods are clean, a few habits can help them stay that way for longer. Store them in a clean case with a lint-free interior, and check for debris before placing them back in the charging case. Clean ear tips whenever you notice wax buildup, and avoid sharing your AirPods to reduce the transfer of oils and bacteria. If you use your AirPods during workouts, wiping them down after each session can prevent sweat from accumulating in the mesh.

For more Apple product guidance, you may also find our article on the Apple Watch Series 9 – UK Prices, Specs and Where to Buy useful. And if you are interested in other tech maintenance topics, our Ninja Luxe Coffee Machine – Expert Review, UK Price & Guide offers a similar how-to approach for a different category of device.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning AirPods