How to Get Ink Stains Off AirPods

pair of airpods

AirPods have become an essential part of our daily lives, providing us with a seamless and wireless audio experience. 

However, accidents happen, and you might find yourself dealing with an ink stain on your beloved 

AirPods. 

Don’t worry; this article will guide you through the process of safely and effectively removing ink stains from your AirPods.

Let’s begin.

Understanding the Challenge

Ink stains on your AirPods can be quite a distressing sight. Whether it’s a leaky pen in your bag or a mishap while doodling, ink stains can mar the appearance of your AirPods. 

But before you start cleaning, it’s crucial to understand the delicate nature of these devices. You wouldn’t want to inadvertently damage them while trying to remove the stain. You also want to avoid excessive moisture as that can damage your Airpods.

Supplies Needed

Before you begin the cleaning process, gather the necessary supplies. You’ll need:

  • Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70% concentration)
  • White vinegar
  • Magic eraser
  • Toothpaste (non-gel variety)
  • Microfiber cloth or cotton swabs
  • Soft-bristle toothbrush
  • Cotton balls
  • Q-tips

Methods for Removing Ink Stains

Method 1: Isopropyl Alcohol

  1. Dampen a cotton ball: Moisten a cotton ball with isopropyl alcohol.
  2. Gently rub the stain: Carefully rub the ink stain using the moistened cotton ball. Avoid letting excess alcohol seep into the AirPods.
  3. Wipe with a microfiber cloth: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away the alcohol and ink residue. Gently clean the entire surface of the AirPods.

Method 2: White Vinegar

  1. Create a mixture: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl.
  2. Dip a cotton swab: Dip a cotton swab into the vinegar solution and squeeze out any excess liquid.
  3. Dab and clean: Gently dab the ink-stained area with the cotton swab. Don’t oversaturate the AirPods.
  4. Wipe and dry: After cleaning, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the AirPods and remove any remaining vinegar.

Method 3: Magic Eraser

  1. Dampen the eraser: Slightly dampen the corner of a magic eraser.
  2. Gently rub the stain: With gentle motions, rub the ink stain. Avoid excessive pressure that could damage the surface.
  3. Wipe with a damp cloth: After using the eraser, wipe the AirPods with a damp cloth to eliminate eraser residue.

Method 4: Toothpaste

  1. Apply toothpaste: Put a small amount of non-gel toothpaste on a soft-bristle toothbrush.
  2. Gently scrub: Lightly scrub the ink stain using the toothbrush. Avoid brushing too hard.
  3. Clean and dry: Wipe the AirPods with a clean, damp cloth to remove the toothpaste residue.

Prevention Tips

To prevent future ink stains, consider these tips:

  • Store your AirPods in a protective case.
  • Keep pens and markers away from your AirPods.
  • Be cautious when using your AirPods around activities that involve ink.

Dos and Don’ts

  • Do: Act quickly to clean ink stains.
  • Don’t: Use sharp objects or abrasive cleaners.
  • Do: Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning methods.
  • Don’t: Use excessive water that could damage the electronics.

Conclusion

Your AirPods can regain their spotless charm even after an ink mishap. 

By following these methods and tips, you can bid farewell to ink stains and enjoy your AirPods’ pristine appearance and impeccable performance.

Is your USB-C port dirty? Read How to Clean Your USB-C Port: A Step-by-Step Guide.  

FAQs

FAQ 1: Can I use rubbing alcohol instead of isopropyl alcohol?

Yes, rubbing alcohol with at least 70% concentration can work effectively in removing ink stains.

FAQ 2: Will these methods damage the AirPods’ finish?

No, if you follow the instructions carefully and avoid excessive moisture, these methods should not damage the finish.

FAQ 3: Can I use any type of toothpaste for the toothpaste method?

It’s best to use non-gel toothpaste as gel-based ones might not work as effectively.

FAQ 4: How often should I clean my AirPods?

Regularly wiping them with a microfiber cloth and giving them a gentle clean as needed should suffice.

FAQ 5: What other cleaning solutions can I try?

You can explore using a mixture of water and mild dish soap for general cleaning. Just ensure not to soak the AirPods.

References:

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208729

https://www.medstarhealth.org/blog/earbuds-headphones-hearing-loss

Photo by Andy Kuzma from Pexels