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How to sanitize headphones: Step-by-Step

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Easily sanitize headphones with E-Cloth—no harsh chemicals needed. Simple, effective cleaning for safe, spotless listening every time.

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How to sanitize headphones: Step-by-Step

Tools:

E-Cloth
70% isopropyl alcohol
Cotton pads
Cotton swabs
Water

Pre-Clean Steps

Unplug your headphones and remove any detachable parts, like ear cushions, if possible.
Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe cleaning to confirm which parts can get wet.

Wiping Down the Surfaces

Dampen a microfiber cloth or a cotton pad with a mix of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water. Ensure it’s just damp—not soaking wet.
Gently wipe all exterior surfaces including the headband, ear cups, and cable (if applicable).
Avoid excessive liquid near sensitive components like speaker grilles.

Detailing and Drying

Use a dry cotton swab or cloth to clean small crevices and remove any lingering moisture.
Allow the headphones to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area before using or reassembling.

Precautions:

Precaution 1: Check Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Review the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid voiding warranties or damaging sensitive components.

Precaution 2: Avoid Excessive Moisture

Keep liquids to a minimum to prevent seepage into electronic parts.

Precaution 3: Use Gentle Cleaning Agents

Stick to mild disinfectants or isopropyl alcohol solutions that are safe for plastics and fabrics.

Precaution 4: Disconnect or Turn Off Devices

Ensure headphones are unplugged or powered down to avoid any risk of electrical damage.

Precaution 5: Remove Detachable Parts

Separate removable cushions or cables for more thorough and controlled cleaning.

Precaution 6: Avoid Abusive Tools

Steer clear of abrasive materials or tools that can scratch surfaces and compromise the finish.

Precaution 7: Ensure Complete Drying

Allow all components to dry naturally and completely to prevent moisture-related issues when reassembling.

How to Correctly Sanitize The Headphones: Extra Tips

Prepare and Inspect Your Headphones

Remove any visible debris like dust or lint using a soft brush or compressed air.
Check for any delicate parts, such as fabric earpads or mesh grills, that require extra attention.

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Select the Right Cleaning Agent

Use a mixture of warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap, or opt for alcohol wipes containing at least 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the headphone materials or affect electronic components.

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Clean with Care and Precision

Dampen a microfiber cloth with your cleaning solution—never soak it—and gently wipe down the surfaces.
For intricate areas like buttons or crevices, use a cotton swab lightly moistened with the solution.

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Dry and Reassemble

Wipe the headphones with a dry soft cloth to remove any moisture and prevent damage.
Let them air dry completely before reconnecting or using them to avoid any issues with electrical components.

Common Mistakes When Sanitizing Headphones

Using Harsh Chemicals

Using solutions like alcohol or bleach can damage delicate headphone materials such as foam, plastic, or leather.
Harsh cleaners may strip away protective coatings and leave residues that affect sound quality.
Always opt for manufacturer-recommended cleaning methods or a mix of water and a mild detergent.

Neglecting Earpads and Mesh

Focusing only on the exterior surfaces and ignoring the earpads and speaker mesh can lead to buildup of dirt and skin oils.
Dirt in these areas can impact sound clarity and result in unpleasant odors.
Regularly remove and clean the detachable parts following the cleaning guidelines to maintain both hygiene and performance.

Submerging in Liquid

Completely immersing headphones in water or other liquids can seep into electronic components and cause irreversible damage.
It’s crucial to use damp, not wet, materials and avoid soaking any part of the headphones.
Always let any liquids evaporate thoroughly to prevent moisture-related issues like corrosion.

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How Often to Sanitize Headphones

Frequency Recommendations

Daily use with heavy sweating or outdoor exposure: Sanitize every day. This prevents the buildup of sweat, oils, and bacteria, keeping your headphones hygienic and extending their lifespan.
Regular indoor use: Clean your headphones at least once a week. Even if you’re not visibly dirty, skin oils and environmental dust accumulate over time, potentially affecting sound quality and durability.
Occasional use or limited contact: A monthly sanitize might be enough if your usage is infrequent and environments are clean. Still, consider a quick wipe down if you notice any residue or odor.

This frequency helps balance routine maintenance with realistic daily habits—keeping your gear safe from germs without turning cleaning into a chore.
Regular sanitization consumes minimal effort compared to replacing degraded components or compromising your listening experience.

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Can smear dirt around

Reduces chemicals & waste, reusable

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