If you have a battery-powered headset, take the batteries out if you can. [2] X Research source

If you’re having trouble removing the ear pads, check the instructions that came with your headphones. It’s okay if you can’t remove the pads from your headphones. You can still clean them while they’re attached.

Avoid using the cloth when it’s dripping wet since it could damage the electrical components inside your headphones.

Avoid getting soapy water near the electronic components of your headphones so you don’t damage them.

Be sure to wipe down the microphone on a headset since it can get dirty being so close to your mouth.

Replace the cotton swab once it looks dirty so you don’t spread around the old dirt and grime. To disinfect, you can dip the swab in rubbing alcohol instead of water.

If you have foam ear tips, dirt and wax can build up and make them difficult to clean. Replace them with silicone ear tips so they’re easier to clean next time.

Avoid using your cloth while it’s soaking wet since the moisture could damage the speakers or electronics. You can clean off the earbud wires using the same cloth and soapy water.

Avoid pushing the toothpick in against the mesh since you could poke through it. You can instead use an earbud cleaning tool with a sharp point to scrape out the wax.

Removing the buildup in the speaker meshes can improve your earbuds’ sound quality and volume. If there’s dirt or wax still stuck in the mesh, rip off a fingertip-sized piece of adhesive mounting putty and gently press it onto the speaker mesh.

Avoid sticking anything in the charging port when you clean the case so you don’t damage it.