Is the sound from your phone speaker getting a little muffled? If your phone accompanies you for outdoor activities, including gardening, working in your garage, or even walking through your neighborhood, there’s a good chance your speakers (and the rest of your phone!) are dirty. To improve audio quality, you’ll want to make sure your speakers are clean. Read on to learn how to clean phone speakers for optimal audio quality on iPhone, Android, and your flip phone products.
Cleaning Smartphone Speakers
Use a Soft-Bristled Brush
Gently brush away dirt and debris from speakers using a soft-bristled brush or compressed air. This dislodges debris without causing damage.
Dampen a Soft Cloth
Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with water or isopropyl alcohol to remove stubborn dirt and grime. Gently wipe the speaker grill and surrounding areas.
Use a Cotton Swab
Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol to clean intricate areas around the speaker grill’s edges. Carefully remove dirt buildup for optimal audio quality.
Check Manufacturer Guidelines
Refer to the user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific cleaning instructions tailored to the device. Follow these guidelines to prevent accidental damage.
Cleaning Flip Phones
Cleaning your flip phone doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these simple steps to keep your device in top condition.
Power Off and Remove Battery
Always start by powering off your phone and removing the battery if possible. Safety first!
Use a Soft Cloth & Soft Brush
Grab a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away dust and fingerprints from the exterior surfaces. To clean the hinges and buttons, use a soft brush to dislodge debris from crevices.
Avoid Water
Avoid excessive water or liquid cleaners, as moisture can seep into the phone and damage internal components, especially in outdoor environments.
Thoroughly Dry Before Reassembly
Allow your phone to air dry completely before putting it back together.
Clean Phone Accessories, too
Don’t forget to clean chargers and cases regularly. Cases can hold a lot of dirt and debris, so it is always a good idea to take them off routinely and wipe them off!
What Not to Do
Avoid Sharp or Abrasive Objects
Refrain from using sharp objects like toothpicks or metal tools, which can scratch or damage the delicate speaker grill.
Don’t Use Excessive Moisture
Avoid excessive water or liquid cleaners, as moisture can seep into the phone and damage internal components, especially in outdoor environments.
Avoid Blowing Directly into the Speaker
Blowing directly into the speaker can introduce moisture and potentially damage the speaker or internal components.
Don’t Apply Excessive Pressure
Apply gentle pressure when cleaning smartphone speakers to prevent denting or deforming the speaker grill, which could compromise functionality.
A Refreshing Phone Space
Improve your phone’s audio by following these tips for cleaning phone speakers. For a guide on cleaning your entire smartphone and phone cover, read our Spring Cleaning: Electronics blog.