Print Close

No wonder iPod earbuds get grimy—they’re in your ears every day. Now that we’ve grossed you out, here’s how to clean them.

• 

  Step 1: Remove from iPod

  Remove the earbuds from your iPod.

• Tip

  You can keep your earbuds spotless longer by keeping your ears squeaky clean.

• 

  Step 2: Dampen cloth

  Dampen a clean cloth with warm water and mild soap.

• 

  Step 3: Wipe off dirt

  Gently wipe off dirt.

• Tip

  Take care not to get any water into the earbud itself.

• 

  Step 4: Wipe away soap residue

  Rinse the washcloth, wring it dry, and use it to wipe away any soap residue.

• 

  Step 5: Dry with cloth

  Dry the earbuds with another clean cloth.

• Fact

  Listening to music with earbuds has been linked to hearing loss—when listening for extended periods, keep the volume at less than 50%.