Sure, Apple AirPods 2 might be coming out sometime in 2020, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't take care of your current ones now. You did drop a pretty penny on them, after all.
To help you make it through the next year with your premium earbuds, here are some simple steps on how to clean your AirPods.
How to Clean Your AirPods
First things first: you'll need to get yourself a microfiber cloth or two. It'll be handy to have a few so you can carry one with you and leave some in your house, handbag, and car.
Cleaning with a Microfiber Cloth
The microfiber cloth is the best way to quickly get rid of any stickiness or other gunk. Just buff the surfaces with the cloth, and you're done! You can also use it to clean your iPhone's screen so you can see clearly all day long.
Cleaning with Cotton Swabs
If there's some grime in the inner parts of your AirPods, you'll need something that can get into those areas. Cotton swabs are great for cleaning out those crevices and grooves on both your AirPods and your charging case. You can get out those stubborn spots with earwax on them easily by rubbing a cotton swab over them.
Cleaning with a Soft Brush
Some debris might get into the mesh part of your AirPods, so a soft brush will be useful in clearing it away. You don't even need to buy anything special; that extra toothbrush in your bathroom will do.
Cleaning Your Charging Case
As we've said above, you can use the microfiber cloth to wipe superficial stains and dirt off of your charging case. But if there are more stubborn stains, you can use 70% isopropyl alcohol on the cloth, then wipe the case with it.
Since there are electronic parts within the case, after you're done, make sure you dry it thoroughly with either a dry paper towel or another microfiber cloth.
You can also use the same small brush you use on your AirPods on the case to get any dust or dirt out of the lightning connector.Â
Keep Your Ears Clean
A lot of the buildup on your AirPods will come from your natural earwax, so they'll stay clean longer if you keep your ears free of earwax. Don't use a Q-tip, as it can cause damage to your eardrums. There are several non-invasive ways you can keep the buildup of earwax away, so use those methods regularly.
If you find you have an excessive amount of earwax, you might want to make an appointment with your doctor so they can see if anything's not normal.
Keep Your AirPods in Great Condition
Now that you know how to clean your AirPods, you can keep them in excellent condition so they look and feel like they're brand new. And who knows, maybe you'll do such a great job of maintaining them that you won't even need to splurge on AirPods 2.
If you have other Apple products and are interested in leather cases for them, browse our selection now.