Unclean earphones can cause permanent hearing loss: How to clean earbuds?

Many people use earphones on a regular and daily basis. But do you take the pain of cleaning the earpieces or wipe them with sanitizers? If not, be on guard. Doctors note that dirt and bacteria buildup on the electronic earbuds can cause infections that can result in hearing loss. The unclean earphones are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria due to the warmth and moisture in the ears.

The harmful microorganisms will enter through the ear canal and cause infections. The infections can trigger inflammation and accumulation of fluids inside the ears. The infections can also adversely affect the delicate auditory system of the ears, and regular infections can result in temporary or, in the worst scenario, permanent hearing loss. Sharing bacteria-laden earpieces can only help in spreading infections. The presence of bacteria on earbuds aggravates skin-related issues in and around the ears. These skin problems can affect the hearing health of a person.

If you are wondering how to clean your earbuds, follow these steps: 
1) Gently remove any visible debris or earwax from the earbuds using soft-bristled brushes. There are also specialized brushes designed for cleaning electronics.
2) Dampen a soft cloth with a little water or a mild cleaning solution. Ensure there is no excess water as that can spoil your gadget. You can also use alcohol wipes or disinfectant wipes, but be cautious not to saturate the earbuds.

3) Take out the removable silicone or foam tips, and clean them separately. Wash the silicone tips with warm, soapy water and rinse them thoroughly. Foam tips can be gently wiped with a damp cloth. They should be completely dry before reattaching them to the earbuds.
4) Wipe the earpiece and the outer surface of the earbuds gently. Be careful not to get moisture into the openings of the earbuds, as this can damage the internal components.

5) You can also disinfect the earbuds using a disinfectant spray or wipes. Make sure to use a disinfectant that is safe for electronics, and avoid getting it into the openings of the earbuds.
6) Allow the earbuds to air dry completely before using them again. Make sure they are thoroughly dry to prevent any damage from moisture.
7) Store your clean earbuds in a clean, dry case when not in use to prevent them from getting dirty again.