How to keep your speaker clean

Today smartphones are used for much more than making calls. People use them to listen to music watch videos use social media and play games. Because of this the phone speaker is used many times throughout the day.

After some time you may notice that the sound has become lower unclear or muffled. Many people think this means the speaker is damaged but that is not always the case.

Dust dirt tiny fibers from clothes and other small particles can collect on the speaker grill.  These particles can block some of the small holes and make the sound less clear.

Check your phone settings first

If your phone’s sound is low first check the volume settings.  Many phones have separate controls for media, calls, and ringtones.

Also check whether your phone is connected to Bluetooth headphones speakers or another device.  The sound may be playing through that device instead of the phone.

If the settings are fine turn off your phone and check the speaker grill for visible dust or dirt.

Safe ways to clean your speaker

•Use a dry cotton swab

A soft dry cotton swab can help remove light dust from the surface. Move it gently over the speaker grill without pushing it into the holes.

•Try a soft brush

For more dust use a clean dry brush with very soft bristles. Gently brush the speaker grill and remove the loose dust with a soft cloth.

•Use low pressure air

A low pressure air blower can help remove loose dust.  Keep it at a safe distance and use gentle air.  Avoid using strong air pressure because it may damage sensitive parts inside the phone.

•Avoid sharp objects and liquids

Never use a needle pin SIM tool or other sharp object to clean the speaker. These can damage the speaker grill or internal parts.

You should also avoid pouring water glass cleaner or other cleaning liquids onto the speaker. Liquid can enter the small holes and damage the phone.

Be careful with rubbing alcohol as well. If the phone manufacturer recommends a specific cleaning method follow those instructions.

What if water gets into the speaker?

Water or other liquids can temporarily make the speaker sound heavy or muffled. Do not put cotton, pins or other objects into the speaker holes to remove the water.

Instead wipe the outside of the phone with a soft dry cloth and keep it away from further moisture.

If you think water has entered the phone follow the manufacturer’s instructions or get professional help.

Even if a phone is water resistant it should not be deliberately placed in water to clean it. Water resistance can become weaker over time due to use and wear.

Keep your phone clean

Regular cleaning can help prevent dust from building up on the speaker. Avoid keeping your phone in very dusty pockets or placing it on dirty or wet surfaces.

The main rule is simple

use gentle dry cleaning methods and avoid pressure sharp objects and liquids.

If the sound remains low or distorted after cleaning the problem may be a hardware issue. In that case, it is better to have the phone checked by a qualified technician.