Yes. Professional refurbishers thoroughly clean and sanitize AirPods before resale. The cleaning process is a standard part of how Apple products get refurbished, and it applies to all audio products, including AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. Apple introduced AirPods Max 2 with the H2 chip in March 2026, and both AirPods Max generations are listed refurbished on RefurbMe.
What does the cleaning process involve?
Refurbishers typically follow these steps for AirPods:
- Sanitization: The earbuds and charging case are cleaned with specialized solutions that remove bacteria and residue.
- Ear tip replacement: For AirPods Pro, the silicone ear tips are replaced with new ones. Standard AirPods do not have removable tips.
- Mesh and speaker grille cleaning: Speaker meshes are carefully cleaned to remove debris without damaging the components.
- Charging case cleaning: The interior and exterior of the case are cleaned and inspected.
Apple Refurbished Store
Apple-refurbished AirPods are cleaned to Apple's own standards and come with new ear tips (for AirPods Pro). Apple's promise of a brand-new battery and outer shell is an iOS-device benefit and does not cover AirPods. AirPods instead get genuine Apple replacement parts as needed, full functional testing, and Apple's standard one-year limited warranty, the same coverage Apple gives every refurbished product in its store.
Tips for peace of mind
If hygiene is a priority, you can take a few extra steps when you receive your refurbished AirPods:
- Wipe the earbuds and case with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth.
- For AirPods Pro, replace the ear tips with a fresh set (available from Apple for a small cost).
- Check that the speaker grilles are clear of debris.
