People have expressed concern after witnessing a simulation of what happens to earphones when they are placed in their ears.
It’s something that most of us use on a regular basis, whether on our way to work, when exercising, or to block out noise on public transportation.
But did you know that, if not used properly, they might be harmful to your health – if you’re not careful?
Millions of social media users couldn’t believe how awful it might get with earbuds in particular, when a video went viral earlier this year demonstrating the effects of leaving them in place.
Earbuds are useful and great, but we have to be careful if we use them frequently (Getty Stock Photo)
Zack D. Films uploaded a 31-second YouTube video titled ‘Why Your Earbuds Are GROSS’, which has received over 15 million views.
It began to explain: “When you put an earbud into your ear, you could be inserting harmful bacteria directly into your (ear) canal,” it said, with the simulation revealing what is on the earbud on a microscopic level.
“You see, every time earbuds sit in your ears, they pick up skin cells, sweat and ear wax, and because your ear canal is moist, dark and warm, it creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria,” it explained, showing how it can appear in the ear and on the bud.
It concluded: “If you don’t regularly clean your earbuds, they accumulate this bacteria which could eventually lead to infections.”
This terrifying realization alarmed some viewers, who turned to the comments section to offer their thoughts, with one saying: “This is exactly why I’m grossed out and decline to put somebody’s earbuds on when they say, ‘hey, listen to this’.”
Another commented: “These animations get scarier everyday.”
A third posted: “Bro people be wearing earbuds and watching this at the same time,” with a skull emoji.
A different user added: “This made me clean my earbuds with pure alcohol. I will do this every day from now on.”
It is important to clean them on a frequent and thorough basis because they will become unclean with time, and no one wants an ear infection.
According to Specsavers, if you wear them every day, you should wash them once a week; however, if you use them while exercising, you should clean them after you finish the activity or in any other condition where you sweat.
It’s worth cleaning your earbuds regularly (Youtube/Zack D. Films)
To remove earwax from headphones and prevent bacteria growth, use an alcohol wipe or a soft cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol or cleaning vinegar to gently wipe away and remove any earway or debris that has accumulated.
Cotton buds can also be good for smaller gaps that your finger cannot reach, and after cleaning your earphones, make sure to dry them well.
It is recommended that you avoid water because it can damage the electronics, unless you have silicone tips that you can remove and wash with water and soap, ensuring they are dry before reinstalling.
If your hearing begins to pain, feel pressured, or you begin to lose your sense of hearing, contact your doctor.
