It’s no secret that AirPods are a beloved accessory.
But if you’re like me you may have wondered if they could survive a tumble in the dryer.
After all it’s a powerful machine that can take a toll on many items.
So can AirPods survive the dryer? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think.
Let’s discuss the details.
AirPods and Heat
AirPods are quite durable but they’re not indestructible.
AirPods are made up of electronic components which are very sensitive and can be damaged by extreme temperatures.
The heat generated by a clothes dryer can easily reach temperatures of over 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
While it may seem like a good way to dry your AirPods quickly this kind of heat can be disastrous for the internal components of your AirPods.
Chances of Damage
As with most electronics the chance of damage increases the longer your AirPods are exposed to the heat.
If your AirPods are in the dryer for just a few minutes the chances of them being damaged are relatively low.
However if your AirPods are in the dryer for an extended period of time the chances of them being damaged are significantly higher.
Prevention
The best way to prevent your AirPods from being damaged by the dryer is to make sure they’re not in there in the first place.
Keep your AirPods in a safe place such as a pocket or bag while you’re doing your laundry.
This will help ensure that they don’t end up in the dryer.
Understanding the Process
The dryer uses multiple heating elements and a rapidly spinning drum to dry out clothes.
The heat breaks down the moisture in the fabric and the spinning motion fluffs the clothing.
The heat from the dryer is powerful and it can cause irreparable damage to items that are not designed to withstand it.
This is true for items like electronics leather and rubber.
AirPods and the Dryer
AirPods are electronic devices made of plastic rubber and metal.
Due to the sensitive nature of their components it’s best to avoid the dryer altogether.
The heat from the dryer can damage the plastic rubber and metal components of the AirPods.
This can lead to a decrease in sound quality poor battery life and even complete breakdown of the device.
Tips for Cleaning AirPods
If you’re looking to clean your AirPods there are some safer options.
You can use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris and you can even use a toothbrush to get in the small crevices.
If you’re looking to give your AirPods a deeper clean you can use a cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol and gently wipe down the device.
Avoid getting the charging port and the microphone wet.
The Bottom Line
To sum it up the dryer is not the safest option for cleaning AirPods.
The heat from the dryer can damage the delicate components of the AirPods leading to decreased sound quality and a shorter lifespan.
For the best results use a damp cloth and a toothbrush to wipe off dirt and debris.
If you want to deep clean your AirPods you can use a cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
Overall it’s best to avoid the dryer when it comes to AirPods.
With a little bit of care you can keep your AirPods in tip-top shape for many years to come.