How to Clean Your AirPods Case: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re rocking out during chores, working out at the gym or hands-free calling, headphones are probably one of the most frequently used iPhone accessories. This also makes them the most likely to get dirty. Between dropping them between couch cushions and stuffing them in our bags, AirPods tend to collect a lot of gunk.

Some people clean their phones as often as they wash their hands, while others do it about once a week. The same can be true for your AirPods. Read on to learn how to clean your AirPods Case inside and out.

The Importance of Cleaning Your AirPods Case and EarPods

Dirty AirPods are not only gross to look at but they can also collect germs. If you let them go uncleaned for too long, all that residual wax can build up inside the AirPods’ speaker mesh or microphone. To preserve the high-quality sound your AirPods are known for, you must keep them clean.

Before you begin, remember:

Never submerge your AirPods in water or a liquid cleaning agent.
Avoid using sharp tools to dig out gunk from the mesh speaker cover.
Brushes can also push debris and wax deeper into the AirPods and should be avoided.
Avoid using bleach to sanitize your electronics.

How to Clean an AirPods Case

No matter what your busy schedule throws at you, your AirPods are with you every step of the way. Whether you toss your AirPods case into your pocket, book bag, purse or car, they’re bound to pick up some grime.

To clean your AirPods and their case, you’ll need:

Microfiber cloth
Soft-bristled electronic cleaning brush
Cleaning putty
A bowl of soapy water

Removing and Cleaning the Protective Case

While not all AirPods cases are the same, cleaning them will typically follow the same steps. Both AirPods and AirPods Pro cases slide on and off in the same way, though Pro cases are wider and shorter than AirPods cases.

Remove the case. Use your fingernail or a flat and sturdy tool to carefully pry one edge off. Once one corner has been removed, the rest should pull off easily. (If your case is particularly stubborn, connect the Lightning Cable to the bottom, then push the case out.)
The case can be cleaned by soaking it in soapy water and wiping it down with a cloth.
Let your protective case dry completely before re-applying.

Cleaning the AirPods Case

If you use your AirPods frequently, the interior of your case (AirPod Case Magnets) may also need to be cleaned.

Wipe down the case with a lint-free microfiber cloth. If it’s particularly dirty, use a bit of soapy solution on the cloth.
Wax may build up around the charging connectors. If it doesn’t wipe clean with a microfiber cloth, try using a soft-bristled electronic cleaning brush to remove it.
Let the case dry completely before.

How to Clean AirPods

Cleaning your AirPods will follow the same process regardless of what generation you have — however, upgrading to AirPods Pro will include an additional step to your cleaning process.

AirPods Pro: Remove the silicone tips and soak them in soapy water. Scrub any grime around the silicone, rinse them and let them dry.
Use the soft-bristled brush to remove built-up grime from the recessed walls surrounding the speaker’s mesh.
If the mesh area has wax buildup, press the AirPods into the cleaning putty according to the putty’s instructions.

Need a New AirPods Case? Shop OtterBox.

Keeping your AirPod case clean is just one way to prolong its lifespan, but sometimes you just want to switch it up. Check out our collection of AirPods cases that can really make your personality pop.

Lumen Series: Show off your AirPods with a splash of color while protecting your AirPods with the Lumen Series. These sleek cases feature durable, see-through polycarbonate with a grippy edge.
LifeProof Series: Eco-friendly and in chic color combinations, the LifeProof Series is protection you can get behind. These flashy cases were crafted from 75% ocean-sourced recycled practice. You’ll defend your AirPods while helping save the environment. It’s a win-win if you ask us.
Core Series: For a party in your pocket, turn to the Core Series. These brightly colored cases feature flecks of color created from 50% recycled materials. They’re ultra-protective with a soft, grippy feel.
Soft-Touch Series: Sometimes, simpler is better. When you want bold colors and protection you can trust in a soft, smooth package, reach for the Soft-Touch Series.