How to clean AirPod max headband? (not the fabric part)

Question

How to clean AirPod max headband? (not the fabric part)

I bought my daughter a new AirPod Max. She put it in her bag, and surprisingly, the AirPod headband got strange brown color, probably from her bag?

The AirPods were in the case, so the cushions are ok. however, the headband has no protection, thus it was exposed.

Any idea how to clean it?

Note that the headband is made of 2 materials: Mesh fabric and some sort of silicone (?). The fabric is ok, but the strange color is on the silicone part.

We couldn't find instructions on Apple website (only related to fabric cleaning).

BTW, we went to an Apple store to ask about it, and even there - they didn't know and didn't offer any support. I must say that I'm greatly disappointed at Apple support.

Posted on Oct 18, 2025 5:19 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

brbo

Level 8

38,587 points

Oct 21, 2025 8:36 PM in response to NataliGotlieb

Re: "How to clean AirPod max headband? (not the fabric part) " Any idea how to clean it?

Note that the headband is made of 2 materials: Mesh fabric and some sort of silicone (?). The fabric is ok, but the strange color is on the silicone part."

Apple Support provides this online article (link below) which may or may not help in your situation:

See: How to clean your AirPods Max - Apple Support

Eg: says:

"Clean the cushions and headband of your AirPods Max

In a clean container, mix 1 tsp. (5 mL) of liquid laundry detergent into 1 cup (250 mL) of water.
Remove the cushions from the ear cups.
When you clean the headband, hold your AirPods Max upside down to prevent liquid from flowing into the headband attachment point.
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.
Wipe the cushions and headband clean with a separate cloth that's slightly dampened with fresh water.
Dry the cushions and headband with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth, making sure to remove any excess moisture.
Lay your AirPods Max flat to dry for at least a day before you reattach the cushions and use them again."

The above article provides more info. on cleaning the mesh.and other parts

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Re: "BTW, we went to an Apple store to ask about it, and even there - they didn't know and didn't offer any support. I must say that I'm greatly disappointed at Apple support".

Wondering if you made a Genius Bar reservation first, as recommended:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

________

Resource: AirPods User Guide – Apple Support : AirPods User Guide - Apple Support

______________________

AirPods Support Website:

Provides all the topics, resources, and contact options:...

AirPods Support - Official Apple Support

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Answer 2

Oct 21, 2025 10:01 PM in response to brbo

Thank you brbo for replying.

I did find the article you've mentioned in Apple website. However, it addresses cleaning the fabric part of the headband, and not the outer frame, which is made of some sort of silicone. For cleaning that part, I couldn't find any instructions.

Regarding "Genius Bar" - we went to Apple store in Milano, Italy and discussed this issue with 3 apple store people. none of them offered "Genius Bar" or anything else. one tried to find a video on YouTube to explain how to clean it. very weird. Not the kind of support I would've expect from a company such as Apple or for a product that cost $550.

Thank you again for trying to help. I appreciate it.

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