How you're cleaning your earbuds and headphones isn't ideal - here's the right way to do it

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Are you cleaning your headphones and earbuds enough? I don't mean using your fingernail to pick out wax buildup in your earbuds' eartips, but actually cleaning them? Cleaning your headphones and earbuds can help keep your ears and your devices in optimal condition.

If you're like me, the inside of your AirPods case is a private matter. Aside from picking out the wax, they need a good cleaning, especially in between sweaty workout sessions. A dirt-filled earbud not only ruins the listening experience but may also cause long-term damage to the internal components. Let's avoid that.

Also: These $15 accessories turned my AirPods into the most versatile earbuds I've worn

It's a simple process, and, contrary to popular belief, you don't actually need dedicated tools to clean them thoroughly; you can ...