Table of Contents
The use of in-ear listening devices, from Apple AirPods to hearing aids, is on the rise thanks to rapid advancements in technology like Bluetooth—but how do people keep their devices clean?
While regularly dusting off earbuds may be far from the top of the to-do list for some, many cleanse their devices fairly regularly. In fact, recent data from a Forbes Health survey by Talker Research of 2,000 U.S. adults found that nearly a third of participants clean in-ear products daily or weekly.
Ready to hear more? Explore our survey findings about how (and how often) participants use and clean their AirPods and other in-ear listening devices, such as hearing aids and hearing protection, plus expert tips on maintaining these products.
- 360-degree sound & bluetooth enabled
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
- Delivered straight to your door
- 3 years of convenient, follow-up care from Jabra Enhance's audiology team
How Often Do People Clean Their AirPods?
On average, 34% of respondents reported using their Airpods or other in-ear listening devices one to two hours per day, 22% stated less than an hour a day and 21% said three to four hours per day—with a total average of approximately 3 hours per day.
Given most survey respondents report using in-ear devices a significant amount each day, how often are they cleaning them? The top reported cleaning frequencies include a few times a week and each day, with the overall breakdown among respondents as follows:
- A few times a week (28%)
- Every day (26%)
- Once a week (17%)
- A few times a month (12%)
- Never (7%)
- Once a month (5%)
- A few times a year (3%)
- Once a year (1%)
When it comes to cleaning specific devices, survey participants report the following frequencies:
| HEARING AIDS | AIRPODS OR OTHER IN-EAR LISTENING DEVICES | HEARING PROTECTION ((I.E. EARPLUGS) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Every day | 37% | 24% | 30% |
| A few times a week | 22% | 30% | 28% |
| Once a week | 13% | 17% | 16% |
| A few times per month | 12% | 13% | 8% |
| Once a month | 9% | 5% | 4% |
| A few times a year | 2% | 3% | 2% |
| Once a year | 1% | 1% | 1% |
| Never | 4% | 7% | 12% |
Analyzing these results by age, the lion’s share of Gen Z (32%), millennials (31%) and Gen X (29%) reported a few times a week to be the sweet spot for cleaning their in-ear devices, while baby boomers most often preferred a daily cleaning (23%).
How Often Should People Clean Their AirPods?
“Cleaning your earbuds regularly is essential for both hygiene and performance,” says Amy Sarow, Au.D., a board-certified audiologist and Forbes Health Advisory Board member.
One aspect to consider is an individual’s level of activity, which can play a role in how often devices need to be cleaned. “If you wear your earbuds during intense workouts or long periods in high-activity environments, such as the gym, the buildup can occur more rapidly, necessitating more frequent cleanings,” adds Dr. Sarow. “On the other hand, if you primarily use them while sitting at your desk, a less rigorous cleaning schedule may suffice,” she continues.
For general use, Dr. Sarow recommends cleaning earbuds once a week, or after each workout, with a damp cloth or non-alcohol-based wipe. However, it may be worthwhile to clean certain devices more frequently. “I typically advise my hearing aid patients clean and sanitize their hearing devices nightly after taking them off and before bedtime,” adds Abigail Friend, Au.D., a board-certified audiologist and Forbes Health Advisory Board member.
The Impacts of Not Cleaning In-Ear Devices
Not cleaning in-ear devices like AirPods and hearing aids can leave equipment susceptible to a buildup of dirt and other substances from external environmental factors, such as humidity, or bodily secretions like sweat.
“Most hearing aid users wear their devices all day,” says Dr. Friend. “Depending on multiple factors—such as environmental humidity, temperature, dirt/debris and perspiration—microphones, speakers and other parts can get clogged.”
“Over time, earwax, sweat and dirt can accumulate on the ear tips [of in-ear devices] and in the crevices of the ear tips, potentially leading to ear infections, poor sound quality or discomfort during use,” says Dr. Sarow, adding that regular cleaning may also help prolong the lifespan of these devices.
Some individuals may produce a larger amount of earwax than others, which may require monthly or routine doctor visits for removal, while others may not experience this issue, adds Dr. Friend, emphasizing that the cleanliness of an individual’s in-ear devices may vary from person to person.
Dr. Friend recommends regularly inspecting devices for dirt and debris and cleaning them with either a small brush, miniature vacuum (for suction) or compressed air. Following cleaning, individuals should sanitize their in-ear devices with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or micellar water to best clear substances, such as ear wax, dirt and debris.
For more information on device-specific cleaning and care, individuals can head to their point of purchase or device manufacturer. For example, Apple offers a “How to clean your AirPods” resource page via its online support hub.
Methodology
The online survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Forbes Health and conducted by market research company Talker Research, in accordance with the Market Research Society’s code of conduct. Data was collected from July 23 to July 29, 2024. The margin of error is ± 2.2 point with 95% confidence. This survey was overseen by Talker Research, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).
