What Do I Do If My Airpods Sound Muffled?- 4 Solutions

Tusher Shaha

29 Sep, 2023

What Do I Do If My Airpods Sound Muffled

AirPods are superb in wireless audio quality, but it can be frustrating when they sound muffled. If this is happening to you, don't worry. We're here to help you understand why it's happening and how to fix it.

Why Your AirPods Sound Muffled?

Muffled sound means the audio isn't clear and sharp. It's like listening to music through a thick blanket. Here are some common reasons why this happens:

Earwax Buildup: Earwax can block the tiny speakers on your AirPods, making the sound muffled.
Dirt and Dust: Tiny particles like dirt or dust can get inside your AirPods, causing sound problems.
Software Glitches: Sometimes, your phone or computer might have a glitch, causing the AirPods to sound funny.
Hardware Issues: If none of the above fixes work, there might be something wrong with your AirPods themselves.

How to Fix Muffled Sound in Your AirPods?

Step 1: Clean your AirPods

To clean your AirPods, you'll need:
A soft, clean cloth (like the one you use for your glasses)
Q-tips or cotton swabs
A little bit of rubbing alcohol (not too strong)
Compressed air (if you have it)

How to Clean Your AirPods?

Take your AirPods out of their case.
Dampen the cloth slightly with the rubbing alcohol.
Gently wipe the earbuds and the speaker parts. Don't use too much liquid.
Use a cotton swab to get into small spaces, but be careful not to push debris deeper into the speakers.
If you have compressed air, use it to blow away any leftover particles.

Also read: How to clean iPad headphone jack? Step-by-step guide

Step 2: Update Your Device's Software

Sometimes, your AirPods might not work well because your phone or computer needs an update.

Make sure your phone or computer has the latest software updates.
Connect your AirPods again.
Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update" and install any available updates.
Reconnect your AirPods and see if the sound is better.

Step 3: Adjust Your Sound Settings

You can adjust your sound settings to improve audio quality. On your phone, go to "Settings" > "Music" (or "Settings" > "Bluetooth" > your AirPods).Try different equalizer settings, sound balance, and volume levels to find what sounds best to you.

Step 4: Check for Hardware Issues

If nothing else works and your AirPods still sound muffled, it might be a hardware problem. In such a scenario, reach out to Apple Support for more help or check if your AirPods are under warranty.

Read more: Are apple earbuds good for gaming?

How to Prevent Muffled Sound Issues in AirPods in Future?

1) Regular Cleaning: Use gentle materials like cotton swabs and isopropyl alcohol (70% or less) to remove earwax, dirt, and debris.

2) Wax Guards: Consider using wax guards or ear tips with built-in filters. It will prevent earwax from getting into the speaker grills and causing muffled sound.

3) Use a Protective Case: Invest in a protective case for your AirPods. It can defend potential damage.

4) Avoid Moisture: AirPods are not completely waterproof. Keep them away from water, sweat, and excessive moisture, as moisture can affect the sound quality and damage the internal components.

5) Store Properly: When not in use, store your AirPods in their case.

6) Update Software Promptly: Regularly check for and install software updates on your connected devices (e.g., iPhone, iPad, Mac).

7) Use Genuine Apple Accessories: When it comes to replacement parts or accessories, always choose genuine Apple products. Non-certified accessories may not fit or work correctly and can cause sound problems.

8) Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extremes in temperature can affect the performance of your AirPods. Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold.

9) Regularly Inspect for Damage: Periodically inspect your AirPods for any visible damage, such as cracks or loose parts. If you notice any issues, contact Apple Support for guidance.

10) Disconnect When Not in Use: When you're not actively using your AirPods, disconnect them from your device to conserve battery life and reduce the chances of software-related sound issues.

Conclusion

Muffled sound in your AirPods can be annoying, but it's usually fixable. You just need to follow the above steps. Moreover, you need to clean your AirPods regularly and keep your device's software up-to-date for the best listening experience.

Tusher Shaha

Hi! I am Tusher Shaha, the author and creator of The Tech Ideal. As a content creator, I enjoy sharing knowledge. My love is reviewing the most recent smart devices (like; smartphones, earbuds, watches and so on) and keeping up with technology. Cheers!