AirPods sound dull: this is the cause
Your AirPods sound dull. The volume is turned up to max, but you can barely hear anything. Earwax has built up in the vents. Most people simply throw their AirPods in their pockets without a second thought. But here's the thing: the problem isn't just the dirt you see. The real culprit is hiding in the microscopic holes where the sound has to pass through. One incorrect cleaning and you'll permanently damage the speakers. Yet, nine out of ten users make this mistake. With the right approach—without water, without harsh chemicals—you can restore the original sound quality. In fact, well-maintained accessories often perform better than brand-new ones neglected for months. The secret is in the technology, not in expensive cleaning products.
Useful links
Why regular maintenance is essential
Most users underestimate the importance of regular earbud maintenance. Dirt and earwax accumulate in the small holes and grilles, directly impacting sound quality. After several months of intensive use, the volume can decrease by up to 40% due to blockages. This problem occurs with all types of earbuds, but especially with compact designs like AirPods Pro and regular models.
The good news: with the right approach, you can fully restore the original sound quality. Moreover, you prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause ear infections. Studies show that earplugs harbor an average of 2,700 times more bacteria than a kitchen cutting board.
Gathering the right materials
Before you start cleaning, gather these essential items:
- Microfiber cloth (dry and clean)
- Soft toothbrush or special electronic brush
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% concentration)
- Cotton swabs
- Toothpicks or wooden skewers
- Optional: blue tack for stubborn dirt
Absolutely avoid these materials:
- Water or soap solutions
- Scouring pads or hard brushes
- Bleach or other harsh cleaning agents
- Compressed air from aerosol cans (too powerful for the delicate speakers)
Step-by-step cleaning method
Step 1: Preparation
Remove the earbuds from the charging case and turn them off completely. Wait at least 10 minutes to allow any heat to dissipate. This prevents condensation from forming during cleaning.
Step 2: Rough cleaning
Use the dry microfiber cloth to remove visible dirt from the exterior. Work systematically: first the handle, then the main body. For models with silicone attachments, remove these first and clean them separately with lukewarm water.
Step 3: Deep cleaning the grilles
Take the soft toothbrush and gently brush the speaker grilles. Use short, light strokes from the inside out. This pushes the dirt away instead of pushing it deeper into the speaker. For stubborn buildup, use a toothpick, but never apply pressure.
Step 4: disinfection
Lightly moisten a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol. Wipe the smooth surfaces with it. Note: The swab should be damp, not wet. Excessive liquid can cause permanent damage to the internal electronics.
Step 5: Treat the charging case
The case often collects more dirt than the earbuds themselves. Use a dry cloth for the outside. For the inside, use a slightly damp cotton swab around the charging contacts. These contacts must be perfectly clean for optimal charging.
Frequency and prevention
The ideal cleaning frequency depends on several factors:
- Daily use (more than 4 hours): weekly maintenance
- Regular use (2-4 hours per day): biweekly
- Sporadic use: monthly
- Sports use: after every intensive training
Preventative measures significantly extend their lifespan. Always store the device in the included case, not loosely in pockets or bags. Avoid using it while eating – food residue is the biggest culprit. Wash your hands before touching the earbuds, especially after exercising.
Common mistakes
Three mistakes are most common:
Mistake 1: Using too much liquid
Even waterproof models can't withstand direct liquid exposure to the speaker openings. A single drop can permanently damage the diaphragm.
Error 2: Wrong brush direction
Brushing from the outside in pushes dirt deeper into the speaker. This causes permanent clogging that can only be remedied professionally.
Error 3: Working impatiently
A quick clean between appointments is counterproductive. Take at least 15 minutes for a thorough cleaning.
When to seek professional help
Some problems you can't solve yourself. Seek professional help for:
- Persistently reduced volume despite thorough cleaning
- Crackling or distorted sounds
- Charging problems that are not resolved by cleaning the contact points
- Visible damage to grilles or housing
Professional cleaning costs an average of €25-40, but can extend the lifespan by years. This is especially beneficial for more expensive models like the Pro versions.
Additional tips for optimal results
Use different cotton swabs for your left and right earbuds to prevent cross-contamination. Test with different music genres after each cleaning – classical music reveals blockages most quickly due to its wide frequency range.
Store your cleaning kit separately from other household items. A small toiletry bag works perfectly as a dedicated maintenance kit. Replace brushes and cloths regularly; dirty cleaning supplies cause more problems than they solve.
Consider purchasing a special cleaning gel (often called Blu-tack). This sticky material removes microscopic dirt from hard-to-reach corners without using liquid. Simply roll it over the grates, and the dirt will stick.
Maintenance is the key to long-lasting quality
Well-maintained earbuds perform optimally for years. The secret isn't expensive cleaning products, but the right technique and regularity . With a soft brush, some isopropyl alcohol, and above all, patience, you can fully restore the original sound quality. Prevent problems by always keeping your AirPods in their case and cleaning them weekly. This way, you can enjoy clear sound for longer without unnecessary purchases of new accessories . Fifteen minutes of maintenance per week will save you hundreds of euros in replacements.
