AirPods aren’t cheap, so you should follow these tips to make sure they last as long as possible.

AirPods can be one of the most useful pieces of technology you ever own. While being lightweight and easy-to-use, AirPods have a considerably long battery life and also work seamlessly with most Apple devices.

However, wear and tear is inevitable for electronics, especially those we use every day. Unfortunately, AirPods aren’t particularly durable, so it’s no wonder why users are always on the lookout for ways to make them last better.

Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to make sure your AirPods last as long as possible.

With regular use, AirPods can gather ear wax, dust, and dirt, which can clog the speakers or microphones and cause them to malfunction. Even worse, the bacteria from your AirPods can give you painful ear infections. For this reason, it’s important to clean your AirPods regularly.

When cleaning your AirPods, Apple recommends using 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipes, 75 percent ethanol wipes, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes.

In addition, Apple recommends avoiding products with bleach and hydrogen peroxide. It is also discouraged to use tissue paper, to avoid damaging the internal components. Instead, use only a clean, dry, lint-free cloth for cleaning your AirPods (and don’t forget to clean the case, too).

Like any lithium-ion-powered device, AirPods require a bit of attention for long-term battery health. The best way to do this is to avoid overcharging your AirPods by leaving them connected to an unofficial charging accessory for too long. Similarly, don’t let your AirPods remain uncharged for too long.

It’s best to only use Apple-authorized charging accessories, which are designed to charge your AirPods in the most optimal way.

According to Apple, AirPods are meant to be used where the ambient temperature is 0–35ºC, or 32–95ºF. Anything higher or lower than this range can cause performance issues or even long-term damage to your AirPods and their batteries.

For people who use AirPods while driving, it is not uncommon to accidentally leave them in the car. However, being left in locked cars or in direct sunlight on a hot sunny day can be damaging for your AirPods. If you find that your AirPods were left in the heat for too long, avoid charging them right away and wait for them to cool down before plugging in again.

Alternatively, using your AirPods outdoors during freezing temperatures can also force them to unceremoniously shut down. Not only can this temporarily affect your AirPods battery life, but it can also lead to moisture that slowly corrodes the inside.

Unlike some of its competitors, the AirPods aren’t built for activities that involve water. While Apple makes a point to say that the AirPods Pro, AirPods (3rd generation), and MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods (3rd generation) are water and sweat resistant, these AirPods still aren’t waterproof or sweat proof.

Aside from water, Apple also warns users that lotions, sunscreen, insect repellents, and other chemicals can negatively impact the water seals and acoustic membranes.

If your AirPods were accidentally submerged, wipe your AirPods dry first. Then, avoid using or charging your AirPods for as long as possible and dry them completely before placing them inside the case.

Lastly, it’s important to understand that sweat and water-resistance ratings are not permanent. With time, your AirPods will become more prone to damage. So, if you’re planning to keep your AirPods working for longer, it’s best to keep them away from everything water-related, which includes showering, swimming, or even just walking in the rain.

If you tend to use AirPods during workouts or morning commutes, it can be tempting to simply shove them in your pockets when they’re not being used. However, this practice makes it easy for your AirPods to slip out by accident when you’re sitting down or walking, especially if your AirPods are particularly shallow.

Because the shape of the case stands out, the outline of an AirPods case in your back pocket can be tempting to thieves who know just how much they’re worth.

When not in use, it’s best to keep AirPods inside the charging case, in zipped bags or other forms of storage that aren’t so accessible or obvious. Keeping AirPods in your charging case when not in use also helps avoid accidental loss because you only have to keep track of one item at a time, compared to each separate AirPod and the case.

Although AirPods are sold with a charging case, the cases themselves are not entirely durable when it comes to dust or water exposure. For this reason, an external case can help make sure that your AirPods are out of harm’s way.

Thankfully, there are plenty of available AirPods cases on the market with varying levels of protection. Depending on your lifestyle, you may want to invest in a silicon case, a hard case, or even cases with additional features such as clips.

Bear in mind that while AirPods cases designed to latch onto bags can be convenient, they can also attract the eyes of potential thieves. Displaying your AirPods during a train ride or walking along the street can invite quick-handed individuals to simply unclip your case and disappear into the crowd.

In general, external AirPods cases should only be treated as additional layers of protection, not the only layer. Ideally, your AirPods should never be exposed to the elements or strangers who may to steal them.

Despite the premium price, AirPods aren’t the most durable pair of earphones on the market. However, there are still many reasons why users swear by them and their role in the Apple ecosystem. With these tips, you can help your AirPods to stand the test of time and have them with you for more adventures in the years to come.

Quina is a staff writer for MUO, resident adrenaline junkie, and lover of all things tech. She is primarily based in Southeast Asia and graduated with a degree in Information Design.

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