In today’s wireless world, AirPods have become an essential device we use on a daily basis, from taking calls to providing the soundtrack for our daily routines. However, with frequent usage comes that inevitable build-up of dirt and earwax which makes cleanliness as crucial as functionality.
Join us as we take a deep look and dive into Apple’s thoughtful design choices for AirPods that are meticulously engineered to make cleaning easier and simpler for us.
Material Choices
Materials used and selected for the construction of AirPods aren’t a mere coincidence or solely to make the earbuds look aesthetically pleasing but play a pivotal role in their ease of maintenance and cleaning. Here are some materials used and why they’ve been selected for easier maintenance and cleansing:
High-Grade Plastic Casing
The primary shell or outer casing material used for AirPods and charging cases is high-graded plastic that is specifically selected for its durability and smooth finish. This type of plastic resists oils and sweat which is accumulated during regular use. Its smooth surface also prevents excessive buildup of dirt and earwax from adhering which makes it easier to wipe clean.
Protective Coatings
To further supplement the high-grade plastic material for durability and ease of cleaning are the layers of protective coatings on the plastic. This hydrophobic and oleophobic coating ensures that the water droplets and oils do not adhere to the surface, reducing the risk of moisture damage and also making the earbuds easier to clean with a simple wipe-down. Furthermore, the coating helps maintain the nice white color of the AirPods and prevents discoloration from prolonged exposure to skin oils and other environmental factors.
Stainless Steel Accents
Yes, stainless steel for the microphone and charging contacts in AirPods makes them durable and adds that premium look but they also ensure that the critical components are resistant to corrosion and wear. This makes stainless steel a great choice to avoid having to clean the corrosion buildup on your earbud devices later on.
Silicone Tips (AirPods Pro)
Being only exclusive to the AirPods Pro the silicone tips have provided a great help in not just providing a comfortable and secure fit but are detachable so you can clean them by submerging them in water. Silicon is non-porous, meaning that it does not absorb sweat or oils, making it exceptionally easy to clean. It also provides a blockade from dirt or earwax from reaching the speaker meshes of your AirPods which can sometimes be difficult to clean.
Smooth Surface Design
AirPods feature a distinctively smooth and seamless surface that enhances both their aesthetic appeal and functional usability. Designed and crafted with minimal seams, it significantly reduces crevices where dirt and earwax could accumulate and thus facilitates straightforward maintenance.
The high-gloss finish not only adds appeal but helps in repelling dust and moisture as well, making the earbuds a lot easier to clean with just a simple swipe of a soft cloth.
Additionally, the polished surfaces of AirPods are durable enough to withstand minor scratches and abrasions where bacteria and dirt may hide, making it a pain for us to clean to maintain hygiene.
Water and Sweat Resistance
AirPods, including the AirPods Pro, have an IPX4 water resistance rating which means they can handle splashes from any direction. This enables you to use a damp cloth or cleaning wipes without the worry of water damage from entering the internal electronic components of your earbud device. This feature is handy for users who want to use cleaning agents for disinfecting.
Lack of Detachable Components
The seamless feature of AirPods without detachable components significantly simplifies the cleaning process. This design means that there are fewer gaps and joints where dirt, dust, and earwax can hide and the same goes for bacteria and debris. This streamlined design ensures that AirPods remain easy to clean which aligns with Apple’s philosophy of simplicity and user convenience.
Speaker Mesh Design
The speaker mesh on AirPods is delicately designed to make sure there is a balance between sound quality and protective functionality. It features a finely woven speaker mesh to protect the internal components from dust and debris while still allowing clear sound transmission. To clean this delicate area Apple advises using a soft, dry lint-free cloth and avoiding liquids that could damage the mesh or risk seeping into and damaging the internal electronic components.
Optimized Cleaning with Hybuds Pen
Sometimes earwax or dirt can adhere strongly to the hard-to-reach corners around your AirPods speaker meshes which are difficult to get rid of, especially if they haven’t been cleaned for a while.
For optimal care for your AirPods, The Hybuds Pen is equipped with the necessary features including its precise metal tip and gentle brushes to effectively clean every nook of your AirPods and the charging case so try it out today!
