If you’re regularly using your earphones while working, exercising or commuting, you’ll know that it’s a great way to stay motivated and pass the time quicker.
And chances are, if you have them available at home, you’ll likely be reaching for them every single day.
However, due to their frequent use, they can get quite filthy – and it’s all too common to overlook the need to give them a proper clean now and then.
People have been warned of the rather unhygienic combination of bacteria, wax, and filth that could be brewing in their earbuds, with experts saying that grimy headphones might lead to ear infections or acne around the ears.
But there’s no need to worry. According to experts from Controller Skins, cleaning your earphones gently without causing damage is simple.
A company spokesperson said: “People don’t realise their earphones collect sweat, dead skin, and germs just like a computer keyboard. Cleaning them weekly stops you basically pressing bacteria into your ears every time you jam to Taylor Swift.”
The affordable cleaning solution from Controller Skins is only 2p per usage, offering significant savings compared to the commercial earbud cleaning kits on the market that usually cost between £10 and £15, reports the Express.
A 500ml bottle of white vinegar, which can be purchased for as little as £2 from Ocado, mixed with distilled water provides enough solution for 50 cleans. Combine this with a 2L bottle of distilled water – costing 45p from Aldi – which lasts for 200 cleans, and the total cost per clean drops to a mere 2p.
This simple, affordable method offers significant savings without compromising on quality, making it a smart alternative to pricier store-bought kits.
To clean earbuds, first, carefully remove any rubber or silicone tips from your earbuds. These parts trap sweat and wax, so clean them separately to avoid missing hidden debris.
Next, create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. White vinegar disinfects naturally, while distilled water prevents mineral deposits from tap water damaging the electronics.
Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the solution and gently scrub the mesh and crevices of the earbuds. Avoid soaking them – excess liquid can seep inside and cause permanent damage.
Finally, wipe the earbuds thoroughly with a dry, lint-free cloth and let them air-dry for at least two hours. Never use a hairdryer or heat source, as this can warp components or trap moisture.
Reattach the tips only when fully dry to prevent bacterial growth.
This cleaning hack works so well as vinegar’s acidity zaps bacteria, while distilled water prevents mineral buildup. Just don’t skip the drying time, soggy earbuds could crackle or die.
Controller Skins commented: “Think of it like flossing for your ears. Five minutes weekly keeps your playlists, and ears, fresh.”