How to clean your AirPods Max

Regular cleaning can help maintain your AirPods Max.

• Clean your AirPods Max

• Clean the cushions and headband of your AirPods Max

• Clean the case of your AirPods Max

• Learn about AirPods Max water resistance

• Tips to avoid skin irritation

Clean your AirPods Max

• Don’t run your AirPods Max under water.

• Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.

• If your AirPods Max are exposed to anything that might cause stains or other damage—for example, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, perfumes, solvents, detergent, acids or acidic foods, insect repellent, sunscreen, oil, or hair dye:

  • Wipe them clean with a cloth slightly dampened with fresh water and dry with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.

  • Don't attempt to use them until they're completely dry.

• Make sure not to get any liquid in the openings.

• Don't use sharp objects or abrasive materials to clean your AirPods Max.

Clean the cushions and headband of your AirPods Max

1. In a clean container, mix 1 tsp. (5 mL) of liquid laundry detergent into 1 cup (250 mL) of water.

2. Remove the cushions from the ear cups.

3. When you clean the headband, hold your AirPods Max upside down to prevent liquid from flowing into the headband attachment point.

4. Dip a lint-free cloth into the soapy water solution, wring it out slightly, and rub the cloth on the cushions and headband gently for 1 minute each.

5. Wipe the cushions and headband clean with a separate cloth that's slightly dampened with fresh water.

6. Dry the cushions and headband with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth, making sure to remove any excess moisture.

7. Lay your AirPods Max flat to dry for at least a day before you reattach the cushions and use them again.

Clean the case of your AirPods Max

Clean the Smart Case with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. If necessary, you can slightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol. Allow the Smart Case to dry. Don't use abrasive materials to clean the Smart Case.

Learn about AirPods Max water resistance

Your AirPods Max and Smart Case aren't waterproof or water resistant, so be careful not to get moisture in any openings. If your AirPods Max or Smart Case come in contact with liquid, wipe them down with a dry microfiber cloth.

If your AirPods Max become damaged after they get wet, you can order a replacement. If your issue isn’t covered by the Apple Limited Warranty, AppleCare+, or consumer law, you may be able to replace your AirPods Max for an out-of-warranty fee.

Tips to avoid skin irritation

Here’s how to avoid skin irritation, especially if you have allergies or skin sensitivities:

• Keeping your AirPods Max and your skin clean and dry will maximize comfort and prevent long-term damage to your device.

• If you have known allergies or sensitivities to certain substances, check the materials in AirPods.